Melaleuca leucadendron (L): Potentials For Plantation Forestry In The Coastal Mangrove Area Of Nigeria And The Prospects Of Its Successful Intergration Into Agroforestry Practices Like Aquaforestry And Apisiviculture

Abstract

The paper examined the potentials of Melaleuca leucadendron(l) for plantation forestry in the coastal mangrove area of Nigeria. A baseline data on growth and yield at 2m by 3m espacement and at twenty-three (23) years of age showed an average survival percentage of 86.7 with a mean annual increment (MAI) of 5.5m3 per hectare per year. This value exceeds the average production for most indigenous mangrove tree species which is put at
between 4 to 5m3 per hectare per year. The prospect of integrating the tree species in a suitable Agroforestry practice such as Aquaforestry and Api-silviculture was proposed. However, there is a need to kick-start and
intensify research work on provenance trial, Stem formation; spacing; canopy development; range of tolerance of site and quality of produce to ensure maximum benefits. The tree species does appear to be a viable option in
the management of the coastal area for timber production and by extension, address the problem of rural poverty and climate change.