Structure and composition of agroforestry systems in coastal areas of Uttara Kannada

The experiment was conducted in coastal areas of Uttara Kannada during 2021-24 to analyse the structure and composition of the agroforestry systems. This study explores the diverse species compositions and stratification layers of various agroforestry systems, highlighting their ecological and economic functions. Agroforestry systems integrate trees and plants into agricultural landscapes, each tailored to specific environmental and productivity goals. Home gardens are characterized by high biodiversity, with a layered structure, tall trees like Cocos nucifera (coconut) and Artocarpus integrifolia (jackfruit) form the canopy layer, medium-sized fruit and shade trees such as Anacardium occidentale (cashew) and Mangifera indica (mango) populate the middle layer and smaller trees and shrubs like Carrica papaya (papaya) and Moringa oleifera (moringa) occupy the intermediate layer. The bottom layer includes vegetables and ornamental flowers, optimizing space for food production and aesthetics. Bund plantations focus on soil conservation and windbreaks, with species like Glyricidia maculata species and Michelia champaca serving as primary components. Boundary plantations use a mix of large and medium-sized trees, including Tectona grandis (teak) and Dalbergia sissoo (sissoo), for timber, shade and demarcation purposes. Silvi-horticulture systems combine trees such as Cocos nucifera (coconut) and Tectona grandis (teak) with horticultural crops, enhancing productivity and biodiversity. Live fences use species like Glyricidia and Agave to create barriers that also serve as windbreaks and boundary markers. Aqua forestry systems, planted near water bodies, utilize species like Glyricidia and Casuarina equisetifolia for soil stabilization and water management. Block plantations focus on high-value timber and economically significant species like Tectona grandis (teak) and Swietenia mahagoni (mahogany), often including fruit trees. Silvi-pasture systems integrate fodder trees such as Leucaena leucocephala with forage crops for livestock. Scattered planting involves distributing valuable trees like Cocos nucifera (coconut) and Mangifera indica (mango) across landscapes for supplemental income and ecological benefits. Each system demonstrates the adaptability of agroforestry practices to meet specific environmental and economic needs in coastal areas of Uttara Kannada.