Authors : Mrunalini N. Desai and Niranjana S. Chavan
Page Nos : 255-257
Description :
Energy content of tropical forest vegetation differs significantly i.e. depending upon the type of the forest and vegetation pattern. Energy content of each component varies considerably. The present attempt has been made to find out the energy content from different parts of a mangrove species Cynometra iripa such as leaves, tender branch, stem and fruit. The determination of energy value (calorific value) of the species was determined by following standard methods and total energy budget of a tree is also calculated which is a measure of utility of plant as fuel wood which depends on the quality and quantity of food reserve in it. It is seen from the experiment that the highest Calorific value is observed in the leaves followed by stem, branches and fruits. The energy content in different parts of Cynometra iripa varies and the range is 1397.0 to 2343.4 Kcal/kg dry wt. Leaves and stem of C. iripa have greater energy values than other components. Thus, the energy store in these organs is used to support growth and reproduction of the plants. Traditionally, C. iripa is used as fuel wood in many coastal regions of the world. The total energy budget of the species is greater than other species. Based on the studies, it is clear that Cynometra iripa has best fuel properties.
Key words: Mangrove, Energy budget, Energy content, Calorific value
