Attack of Killer Mistletoe on Bauhinia variegata Linn. in New Forest Campus, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India

Author: A. Chandra*, P.K. Verma and S. Baig

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Abstract

Bauhinia variegata Linn. is a valuable tree species, known for beautiful flower. It is planted as ornamental tree in various places in New Forest Campus, Dehradun. Mistletoes attack various tree species and severely affect their productivity. Aim of the study was to identify species of mistletoe which attacked Bauhinia variegata and to which extent infestation occurred. For the study, a survey was carried out in New Forest Campus. Study reveals that all the mature trees were invariably infested by the mistletoe. Species was identified as Scurrula pulverulenta (Wall.) G. Don. Suitable management strategies are suggested to curb the spread of mistletoe

Keywords

Mistletoe, Benda, Kachnar, Genetic improvement, Infestation

Conclusion

Mistletoes are partial parasites and they attack various tree species. B. variegata is an important tree species of varied uses. However, the quality and quantity of timber and flower are being affected by the mistletoe infestation. As infestation advances, quality and quantity may severely be declined. To curb the spread of mistletoe infestation, suitable measures should be adopted. Removal of mistletoes manually may be the best practice to stop the spread of infestation. In advance stage, it is difficult to remove mistletoe and it can heavily damage the tree. Therefore, it is suggested that mistletoes should be removed in initial stage. It will aid in enhancing the timber and flower’s yield and quality. Genetic improvement programme for selection of superior mistletoe resistant genotypes of Kachnar should be taken up for raising new plantation.

References

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How to cite this article

A. Chandra, P.K. Verma and S. Baig (2024). Attack of Killer Mistletoe on Bauhinia variegata Linn. in New Forest Campus, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(12): 29-31