Diversity and preference of agricultural crops in the cropland agroforests of southwestern Bangladesh

Type Journal Article - International Journal of Agriculture and Crop Sciences
Title Diversity and preference of agricultural crops in the cropland agroforests of southwestern Bangladesh
Author(s)
Volume 7
Issue 7
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2014
Page numbers 364-372
URL http://www.researchgate.net/profile/Mahmood_Hossain/publication/267392381_Diversity_and_preference_o​f_agricultural_crops_in_the_cropland_agroforests_of_southwestern_Bangladesh/links/544e655e0cf2bca5ce​90b1c9.pdf
Abstract
Cropland agroforestry is an important production system of Bangladesh. This study focused on the diversity, composition, people’s preferences, spatial variations and purpose of cultivation of agricultural crops in the cropland agroforestry practices of southwestern Bangladesh. A total of 313 cropland agroforests were randomly surveyed from Khulna, Jessore and Satkhira districts of this region. The highest (0.84 to 0.87) crop diversity index (CDI) was found for climber vegetables, followed by tuber vegetables (CDI - 0.78 to 0.81), spices (CDI - 0.75 to 0.81) and the lowest (CDI - 0.20 to 0.40) was found for cereal crops. Among these three districts maximum crop diversity was found in Jessore as the soil is more suitable as well as marketing and transportation facility is higher than the other two districts. Among the cereal crops maximum (95%) preferred paddy (Oryzae sativa). Among the cash crops maximum (68%) preferred jute (Corchorus capsularis). Among the tuber vegetables maximum (44%) preferred potato (Solanum tuberosum). Among the fruity vegetables maximum (42%) preferred brinjal (Solanum melongena). Among the leafy vegetables maximum (39%) preferred basil (Basella alba). Among the climber vegetables maximum (36%) preferred bean (Lablab niger). Among the pulses maximum (52%) preferred lentil (Lens culinaris). Among the spices maximum (42%) preferred green peeper (Capsicum frutescens). Among the flowers maximum (70%) preferred rose (Rosa centifolia). Among the annuals/perennials maximum (66%) preferred banana (Musa spp.). Overall diversity and preference of agricultural crops in southwestern Bangladesh were determined by the local demand and end product.

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