Variability of sap yield in Kaong (Arenga pinnata (Wurmb) Merr.) in the Philippines
2014
Lantican, C.B. | Haagen, A.
The study aimed to find the extent to which sap yield in Kaong (Arenga pinnata (Wurmb) Merr.), a potential source of bioethanol and sugar with low glycemic index, varies from one tree to another within the same locality and from one locality to another. This study was carried out using randomly selected trees from six natural stands located in different parts of the Philippines: Makiling Forest, College, Laguna; Cavinti, Laguna; Santor, Tanauan, Batangas; Cavite State University, Indang, Cavite; Sigma, Capiz; and Binaton, Digos, Davao del Sur [Philippines]. One inflorescence was tapped from each of the trees used in the study. The results showed that within the same locality, significant tree to tree variations exist in terms of tapping duration (total number of days a tree exudes sap) and in terms of average daily sap yield. Significant differences were also observed between morning (AM) and afternoon (PM) sap yields. PM yields were consistently higher, presumably because photosynthesis occurs at daytime. Trees differed widely in terms of tapping duration (range: 24 to 604 days; mean: 150 days). Average daily sap yield varied from one location to another. The highest yields were found for Mt. Makiling and Binaton. In all localities studied, tree to tree variation in sap yield was high. Yields of eight liters or more per day were recorded for some trees in Binaton, Indang, Sigma and Makiling. Sap yield showed no significant correlations with elevation, dry season length, soil pH and N and P content. The highly significant variations in sap yield among trees within the same locality the possibility of raising high sap yielding plantations by obtaining planting materials from high yielding trees. This is just speculation though, since has not yet established the role of genetics in sap yield variability among Kaong trees.
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