Latex micro diagnosis, modern management tool of rubber plantations of clones with moderate metabolism GT 1, RRIC 100 and BPM 24

Abstract

Objective: The cultivated rubber clones are sensitive to latex harvesting regimes according to their laticiferous metabolism. This study was done to determine the best latex harvesting system (s) of clones with moderate metabolism (GT 1, RRIC 100 and BPM 24).
Methodology and Results: Six latex harvesting technologies were  applied to these clones in a bulk statistical device from Fisher to four rehearsals. The rubber trees were tapped in downward half spiral stimulated or not, for nine years after the opening of the tapping panel. The agronomic parameters (latex production, vegetative growth), the tapping panel dryness and those of the latex micro diagnosis were  evaluated. The results indicate that these clones independently of the latex harvesting system have good rubber productivity (2234 kg.ha^-1.y^-1) with good radial vegetative growth (2.4 cm.y^-1). Their trees showed a well-balanced physiological profile and an acceptable sensitivity to the tapping panel dryness (3.2 %). However, the physiological index, the bark consumption and the sensitivity to the tapping panel dryness lead to retain the latex harvesting technology "S/2 d4 6d/7 Pa1 (1) ET2.5% 4/y” for the best.
Conclusion and application of results: This index, favourably  influencing the choice of technologies adapted to clones with active metabolism, contributes to the modern and efficient management of a rubber plantation.

Key words: latex-harvesting technology, rubber clones, moderate  metabolism, tapping panel dryness, physiological parameters