Allometric growth estimation of Prunus armeniaca L . leaves from danyore valley, gilgit-baltistan, Pakistan

Abstract

Apricot, a deciduous, perennial having tree habited species is a member of family Rosaceae. Thousands of poor farmers and their families in the area rely on apricot for their livelihood. Seventy-one countries across the globe produce a total of 3.95million tons of apricot annually. Pakistan stands on 6th and produces 0.178million-tons. Out of its total more than 60% comes from Gilgit-Baltistan. Present allometric study of leaves was conducted for the first time. Research revealed that mean leaf width is 7.456cm, mean length is 8.508cm and mean leaf area recorded was 64.82cm2. On an average leaf reach to its growth climax in a period of 60±5 days. In 24 hours times, mean growth in length increase was 14.18mm followed by 12.42mm in width and 108mm2 areas. Average height of trees recorded was 11m and trunk width at breast height was 40cm wide. Large number of land races with unique germ plasm continues to deplete due to mercerization of only a single variety by the government and other organizations. There are more than 40 varieties grown in the area. Strategies are critical to sustain such a great resource of germ plasm.