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ARID ZONE RESEARCH CENTRE, QUETTA 

Arid Zone Research Centre with its headquarter at Quetta has three affiliated institutes.  

1. Arid Zone Research Institute, Bahawalpur, Punjab

2. Arid Zone Research Institute, D.I. Khan, NWFP

3. Arid Zone Research Institute, Umerkot, Sindh

ARID ZONE RESEARCH CENTRE, QUETTA

INTRODUCTION

Twenty million heads of sheep and goats in Balochistan constitute more than one-third of small ruminant population of Pakistan. These animals are the major livestock wealth of the Province that covers 34.7 million hectares, almost 44% of country’s land area. More than 80% people of the Province derive their livelihood directly or indirectly from small ruminant production. But these animals are underfed because of low forage availability in quantity and quality on the ranges and their overall productivity is very low. The major constraints in increasing small ruminants productivity are the harsh climate with low and erratic rainfall, cold winters and hot summers. Other constraints include poor flock management, animal diseases and health problems, lack of sufficient infrastructure, land tenure system and the rangeland management and control problems. The research work at AZRC for improving output of small ruminants’ production operations is being conducted in the light of this scenario.

OBJECTIVES

• Studies on raising sheep and goats under grazing conditions with minimal supplemental feeding and monitoring changes in their performance under different ecological zones of the province

• Estimate cost-benefit ratio for raising range-based sheep and goats with minimal supplemental feeding and determine the type and requirements of supplemental feeds

• Assessment of different arid zone feeds and forages through in vivo and in vitro techniques

• Studies on the impact of different diseases on the productivity of range-based sheep and goats

SALIENT FINDINGS

• Productivity of moderately thin ewes improved to above 90% with flushing during breeding at AZRC Research Stations.

• Strategic supplemental feeding at private farmers’ flock level increased sheep productivity from 60-65% to more than 90% in poor rainfall years.

• Field surveys and lab work indicated 60-80% sheep/goats infected with internal parasites that lead to high mortality and morbidity rates.

• Health cover package (vaccination, drenching and dipping) reduced sheep mortality to almost one third (from 12 to 4%)

• Lamb fattening trials resulted in daily gain upto 250 grams by lambs of native breeds and FCC 1:4 to 1:6 were achieved.

ON-GOING RESEARCH ENDEAVORS

• Seasonal incidence of internal parasites in sheep and goats in and around the Quetta.

• Assessing the warble fly infestation in Balochistan

• Assessment of skin damage due to different parasitic infestation in sheep and goats in Quetta.

• Breed evaluation of Harnai range-sheep under optimum nutritional and health management provision in Tomagh, Balochistan

 FUTURE RESEARCH VISION

• Performance of Harnai range-ewes under optimal feeding and health management conditions in Asghara (Ziarat dist) valley of Balochistan.

• Incidence of internal, external and blood parasites; and hydatid cyst problems in sheep and goats slaughtered at the Quetta, Kuchlak and Mastung slaughter houses. (Funded by Pakistan Science Foundation)

• Development of health, nutrition and breeding management package for increased output from range-sheep/goats production operation in Balochistan. (submitted to ALP for funding)

ACCOMPLISHMENTS  

Achievements 2006-07

Effect of winter supplementation on the performance of Balochi ewes grazing native rangeland in highland Balochistan (1988).

A study was conducted on winter supplemental feeding of Balochi ewes and their performance in Kalat area of Balochistan. Eighty-two ewes were randomly divided into two groups of 40 and 42 animals. Two treatments (T1 and T2) studied were: 250 gm/animal/day of a 50:50 mixture of cottonseed cake and barley grain fed from Oct. to Dec. 18, 1988 plus grazing and 500 gm/animal/day of the same feed mixture fed in addition to grazing. Lucerne hay and wheat straw in a 50:50 ratio were provided to all the ewes for a period of one month @ 320 gm/animal/day to sustain them in severe winter. Same feeding levels to the same ewe groups were again fed from March 1 to May 27, 1989. Three breeding rams stayed with the flock from Nov. 1 to Dec. 13, 1988. Lambing took place from April 2 to May 12, 1989. Conception, lambing and mortality percentage was found different (P< .05) between T1 and T2 (22.5 vs 52.4%, 22.5 vs 52.4% and 12.5 vs 4.8%, respectively). Lamb birth weight (3.4 vs 3.2 kg) were similar for T1 and T2 but lamb weaning weights were found different between T1 and T2 (12.6 vs 14.8 kg). The ewes on T2 maintained higher body weights through out winter supplementation (flushing) and decrease in ewe mortality. Late-gestation and early-lactation supplemental feeding of ewes results in increases in weaning weights of their lambs. 

Fertility of range based Balochi ewes as influenced by improved nutrition in Zarchi area of highland Balochistan  (1989-92).

Three experiments were conducted during range grazing scarcity period of winter, spring and part of summer, to study the effect of improved nutrition on Balochi ewes in highland Zarchi range area of Balochistan province. Experiment involved 48 ewes, of varying ages, split into three equal groups each allocated to a different treatment of range grazing only (TI), medium level of supplementation with range grazing (T2), and a high level of supplementation without range grazing (T3). There was no difference in conception and lambing and mortality rates among the three treatment groups. Lambs from T3 ewes had significantly higher birth and weaning weights than those from T1 and T2 ewes, whereas the lamb from the two latter groups did not differ in these parameters. Average body weight of T3 ewes was significantly higher than both T1 and T2 ewes from the 3rd fortnight onword, whereas that of T1 and T2 ewes differed only from the 5th to 13th fortnight of the experiment.

Fourwing saltbush as winter maintenace forage for sheep in upland Balochistan (1990).

Sixteen Harnai lambs were used in a completely randomized design to study the nutritive value of fourwing saltbush as a winter maintenance browse in comparison to native grazing with or without protein and energy supplementation at Tomagh Range Livestock Research Station, in Loralai district, Balochistan. The animals were divided into four groups of four lambs each. These four groups were assigned four treatments at random; fourwing saltbush grazing alone, range plus Lucerne hay (100 g/head/day), range grazing plus barley grain (100 g/head/day) and range grazing alone for ten weeks. The results indicated that the two range grazing plus supplementation treatments produced weight gains, which were not significantly different from each other (p<0.05). Both of these treatments yielded significantly higher weight gains (p<0.05) than did range grazing alone except for the last week of study. Fourwing grazing provided cumulative weight gains at 3, 4, 6, 7 and 8 weeks which were not significantly different from the range grazing plus Lucerne hay treatment and gained an average 6 percent in body weight over the 10 weeks period of study. Results of this study suggest that under fourwing saltbush grazing alone, lambs do not only maintain their body weight but can also gain weight in winter.

Impact of fourwing saltbush on feed and water intake and on blood serum profile in sheep (1991).

Sixteen rams were used to evaluate the influence of varying levels of fourwing saltbush hay on feed and water intakes as well as the blood serum mineral status in a completely randomized design. The animals were grouped randomly in four groups with four animals each. The four groups were randomly allotted low, medium and high and very high levels of saltbush hay supplementation in addition to wheat straw. The animals were given fresh water ad libitum. Weekly body weight was recorded for each individual animal. Blood serum was collected for mineral contents. The experiment lasted for eight weeks. The inclusion of saltbush leaves in the diet showed a non-significant effect on the total dry matter intake at low, medium and high levels of saltbush, whereas at very high level the total dry matter intake declined. There had been also a significant increase in water intake for very high level of saltbush ration. Lower levels showed no effect on water intake. The animals maintained their body weight from one to week eight. No treatment by week’s interaction on potassium and  sodium levels was detected. However, higher levels of saltbush significantly increased the potassium and sodium contents in serum. Calcium contents were significantly lowered (P<0.01) with the inclusion of saltbush leaves in the diet. Phosphorus contents increased (P<0.05) with higher levels of saltbush. No clinical or sub-clinical toxicological symptoms were observed in the sheep with higher mineral contents.

Nutritive evaluation of fourwing saltbush in growth and digestibility trials with Harnai lambs in upland Balochistan (1990).

Twenty-four Harnai lambs 6 to 7 month old, weighing 16 ± 2kg were used in completely randomized design in growth and digestibility trials to study fourwing saltbush ration supplemented with cottonseed cake. The animals were divided at random into three groups of 8 animals each. Three isonitrogenous (10.5% CP) experimental rations containing: 1. wheat straw + lucerne hay (24:76), 2. fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens) + cotton seed cake (71:29), and 3. wheat straw + cotton seed cake (41:59)  were allotted to each group randomly. All the animals were taken out for grazing in a dormant native range for about 3 hours in the afternoon during the growth trial. At the end of 8 weeks lambs on ration 3 gained significantly (p<0.10) more weight compared to those on rations 1 and 2, which maintained their body weight. The crude protein digestibility of the fourwing saltbush based ration was comparable with the other two treatments (71 vs 70 and 71%). However, the digestibility of dry matter (41%), acid detergent fiber (13%) and neutral detergent fiber (22%) of this ration was significantly lower (p<0.10) than the other two diets. The results suggest that lambs can be maintained on fourwing saltbush during winter without significant loss in body weight with 30% extra protein concentrates supplementation.

Productivity of range-based Harnai ewes as influenced by improved nutrition in Tomagh, Balochistan (1989-92)

Under this study, three experiments were carried out during 1989 - 1992 to explore the production potential of indigenous sheep with improvement in their nutrition and management under the local harsh environmental conditions and define the animals’ supplemental feed requirements for optimum production. A 100% conception rate was observed in this experiment in all the three treatments. The lambing percentage in T2 and T3 was 100% and 93.75% lambing was observed in T1. These lambing rates are higher than 60-70% reported in surveys of this area. A significant difference (P<0.05) in ewe live-weight at lambing was observed. The mortality rate of ewes in treatment T1 was 6% against zero % mortality in the other two treatments (P>0.05). Differences in birth weights of lambs from ewes under treatments T2 and T3 was non-significant (P>0.050) but these two treatments were different from treatment T1 in birth weight of lambs. The difference in fortnightly body weight of sheep indicates that the better nutritional management helped the animals to maintain their body weight although the difference in initial weight of animals under the three treatments was non-significant. Future studies would address the question of early and late breeding in the season with and without supplemental feeding.

Rainfed farming system and socio-economic aspects in Kalat division of Highland Balochistan (1991).

The objective of this study was to understand crop-livestock interactions and related socio-economic aspect in the area, to identify constraints in high productivity and to study farmers’ priorities and agricultural research opportunities. Ninety farmers were interviewed randomly from twenty-five villages at Kalat and Khuzdar districts during the month of September, 1988. The majority of the farmers in the region are smallholders and hinder the adoption of new technologies. Livestock husbandry is closely integrated with crop production and plays an important role in the farmers’ decision making process. Cropping intensity is much lower and yield of major crops is well below its potential level.

Lamb fattening under intensive feedlot conditions in Balochistan (1993).

Sixteen Balochi lambs 8 to 10 month of age weighing 18.4 to 33.2 kg were used for this trial conducted during 1993 at Animal Nutrition Research Unit (ANRU) of AZRC, Quetta. The lambs were randomly divided into eight groups in such a way that two lambs having almost similar live weights were put in one group. Each pair was then randomly assigned to one of eight fattening pens. Two experimental rations having similar metabolizing energy (ME; 2600 kcal/kg) but differing in CP levels was prepared. Four randomly selected groups served as control and received the basal ration A that contained 12 percent CP. Urea was included in ration B to increase the CP level of the basal ration to 17 percent. No difference (P>0.05) in the average daily gain and feed efficiency of lambs fed the two rations were observed. However, daily feed intake was higher for the lambs fed ration B with 17 percent CP.

Performance of Balochi lambs grazing Vicia villosa and barley pastures in winter (1993).

Intake and weight gain by sheep and forage production of five different forage species i. e., two vetch lines Vicia villosa, subspp. dasycarpa (Acc 683 and Acc Gilgit) and three varieties of barley (Arabic abiad, Frontier 87 and a local landrace) were studied at AZRC Farm, Quetta. The two vetches produced higher (P<0.05) forage yields during pre-flowering, flowering and maturity stages followed by two barley varieties whereas the local barley was lowest in forage production. During flowering stage, intake was higher for barley Arabic abaid followed by other species and local barley.  At maturity stage, intake was higher for barley varieties as compared to vetch species. Weight gain by sheep grazing on barley Arabic abiad was highest and these gain did not differ from barley Frontier 87 and vetch Acc Gilgit followed by vetch Acc 683 and local barley produced the lowest gains.

Evaluation of different exotic grass species in upland Balochistan (1994).

Eight cool-season and three warm-season exotic grass species were raised and evaluated for above ground dry matter biomass in Mastung and Tomagh areas in upland Balochistan. Tall wheatgrass and pubescent wheatgrass exhibited high dry matter biomass in southern upland region (Mastung) both in fall, 1989 and spring 1990. In north-eastern region (Tomagh), weeping lovergrass outperformed in dry matter biomass production, however, some other species such as tall wheatgrass, pubescent wheatgrass, thickspike wheatgrass, orchardgrass and steppe wildrye also exhibited encouraging results. Mixture of cool-season and warm-season grasses proved highly successful and showed promise to extend forage availability year round in upland Balochistan where winter forage deficit is a serious problem for livestock.

Nutritional and health management of small ruminants in the Dasht valley near Quetta, Balochistan (1995).

 A diagnostic survey of Dasht valley was carried out in August, 1995 to take stock of existing situation and describe crop and animal production practices in the area so that a demonstration of AZRI (Arid Zone Research Institute) generated technologies at the sheep/goats farmers’ level could be undertaken for enhancing output of sheep and goats production operations. Small ruminant raising is the second most priority in the Dasht valley after crop cultivation and raised mainly to meet domestic milk, wool and meat needs, as an insurance against crop failure, unforeseen hazards, expected droughts and other emergencies and to serve as cash reserves. Animals depend on native range grazing, crop residues and contribution of each feed component to meet the nutritional requirements is almost 50%. Animals are allowed to go for range grazing for 4-5 hours daily in the morning and crop residues mostly wheat, maize, sorghum and onion straws are fed in the afternoon. Breeding starts in July August after harvesting wheat and barley crop and first lambing takes place in November-December. Next breeding starts in April May and second lamb crop is born in August September. Fertility varies from 70-80% in the area and twining is very uncommon in sheep (<1%) while it is frequent in goats particularly in breeds from Sindh and even triplets are common under intensive management. Prolificacy (no. of lamb born/no. of ewes lambing) is almost 100% in sheep and up to 120 to 130% in goats. Lambs/kids are weaned when 3-4 month old and usually weight 8-10 kg. Enterotoxaemia, pleuro-pneumonia, anthrax, mange and liverfluke and other internal parasites are prevalent. Mortality of adult stock varies from 10-12%. A few cases of FMD (foot and mouth disease) and piroplasmosis are also reported. Lamb mortality is high overall in Balochistan (30-40%); and ranges from 15-20% in the valley. This is a big loss to the farmers and needs special attention for improving overall sheep/goats productivity. Another important finding recorded during the survey was castration of male lambs/kids through open surgery conducted locally. Four to five percent cases get infected after this surgery. Veterinary services are insufficient in the area to carry out full vaccination and drenching program. Farmers usually approach Civil Veterinary Hospital, Quetta for urgent needs and medicines prescribed are purchased from city markets.

Value of barley grain and cottonseed cake as supplements to fourwing salt bush; and live weight gains and water consumption of sheep fed the salt bush diets (1996).

Fifteen sheep were used in a trial which compared the feeding value of whole barely grain and cottonseed cake a supplements to a basal diet of leaves of fourwing slatbush (Atiplex canesens). Diet SB (salt bush) contained 700 g (air dry matter) of salt bush alone, diet SB+BG (barley grain) contained 700 g SB with 400 g whole barley grain and diet SB+CS (cottonseed cake) contained 700 g SB with 400 g cottonseed cake. The digestibility of the dry matter of the diets SB (69%) and SB+CS (70%) were lower than diet SB+BG (76%). Sheep offered SB alone daily lost 80 g weight whereas those feed the other two diets gained 11 g (SB+CS) or 17 g (SB+BG) per day. Daily water consumption of the sheep offered the 3 diets was similar (P>0.05) but their water consumption was higher (P<0.001) than an other separate group of sheep offered daily 700 g wheat straw and 700 g barley grain. The results indicate that at the levels of SB feeding used, barley grain and cottonseed cake had similar value as supplements to fourwing salt bush harvested in summer. The addition of supplement to SB enabled sheep to gain some live weight. However, the presence of saltbush leaves in the diets resulted in higher water intakes by the sheep.

Parasitic infection of sheep and goats in Quetta and Kalat areas of Balochistan (1997-99).

Limited information gathered in the past is available regarding epidemiology of parasitic diseases in the Quetta and Kalat areas and this study was, therefore, conducted to document the available data and see any change in parasitic infection of small ruminants in the area over the last few years. Per-rectal samples from sheep and goats were collected from Quetta and Kalat (Kovak and Zarchi valley) areas of Balochistan to assess the endoparasitism. The quantitaive examination showed Trichuris globulosa, Marshallagia marshalli and Strongyloides papillosa infestation. Average number of egg per gram of faeces (EPG) ranged from 291-546. The infected animals were dull, depressed, and weak; and poor conditioned.

Prevalence of livestock diseases in Balochistan (2001). 

To document the present status of livestock (sheep, goats, cattle, buffaloes, camels, horses, and asses/mules) mostly sheep and goats diseases in Balochistan, four years livestock disease occurrence/prevalence record/data (July, 1997 to June, 2001) were obtained from the Directorate of Animal Health, Livestock and Dairy Development Department, Government of Balochistan,  Quetta. These data/record were analyzed month-wise and year-wise using Microsoft Excel Computer package to evaluate distribution of livestock diseases throughout the study period. These data indicated seven types of livestock maladies prevalent in Balochistan. The highest number of animals/cases treated/recorded at the Civil Veterinary Hospitals of the Province were due to endo-parasites i.e., lungworms 2,507,683 (31.74%), wireworms 1,393,604 (17.64%) and liver-fluke 1,277,822 (16.17%) followed by ecto-parasites i.e., mange 702,132 (8.88%) and ticks 534,114 (6.76%), contagious diseases 214,065 (2.70%), non contagious diseases 396,270 (5.01%), systematic diseases 114,234 (1.44%), metabolic diseases 100,867 (1.27%) and other miscellaneous diseases 659,131 (8.34%) during the study period. Prevalence of almost all these diseases was higher in summer than winter and higher during the last year (2000-2001) than the previous years of the study (1997-2000). It seems that rise of temperature in summer, severe drought conditions prevailing in the province over the last 4-5 years, inadequate availability of feed in quality and quantity from the rangelands and poor health management lead to higher incidence of livestock diseases in Balochistan. Therefore, great devotion is required to treat these diseases under the present scenario as well as viewing the future prospects of livestock production in Balochistan.  

Incidence of internal parasites in sheep and goats of Asghara valley in Ziarat district of Balochistan (2002)

A study was carried out at Arid Zone Research Centre, Quetta during July, 2001 to January, 2002 to monitor internal parasitic infestation in sheep and goats of Asghara Valley in Ziarat district. A total of 105 fecal samples were collected randomly from 10-15% animals in a sheep/goats flock directly from the rectum and analyzed for presence/absence and identification of parasitic ova. The centrifugal floatation method was used for the detection of parasite eggs in the feces. Results indicate that parasitic infestation was 57% in sheep and 43% in goats in the AZRC flock; and 80% and 60% in sheep and goats, respectively in private farmers' flocks. The peak infestation (73% in sheep & 60% in goats) was recorded during August in the AZRC flock and during September (93% in sheep and 80% in goats) in private farmers' flocks of the valley. Seven different types of internal parasites i.e., nematodes species: Strongyloides,Trichostrongylus, Haemonchus and Nematodirus trematode species: Fasciola hepatica, the cestode species: Moniezia and protozoa species: Eimeria were observed in the two flocks. It seems evident that there is need to disinfect the private farmers' sheep/goats flocks in the valley more frequently against internal parasites to ensure minimum infestation level in these animals for enhancing their productivity.

Assessing the fattening potential of Balochi and Harnai male-lambs fed different protein and energy rations under confinement in Quetta (2002)

Two feeding trials were conducted to study the fattening potential of Balochi and Harnai male-lambs. Trial-I used 16 Balochi male-lambs, 8-10 months old weighing 18.4 to 33.2 kg divided into 8 groups with body-weights similar within a group. Four groups (8 lambs) were assigned at random to one of the two iso-caloric (2600 Kcal metabolizable energy (ME)/kg of feed) rations with 12% (A) or 17% CP (B). Lambs were fed the rations ad libitum for 5 week. Daily feed offered and refused was weighed and weight of the lambs was taken weekly. Weight gain by the lambs fed on ration A (189 + 29 g/h/d) or B (245 + 29 g/h/d) did not differ. More (P<0.05) feed was consumed by the lambs fed on ration B (1739 + 80 g/h/d) as compared to those fed on ration A (1446 + 80 g/h/d). Feed efficiency of the lambs fed ration A (7.9 + 1.4) or B (7.2 + 1.4) did not differ. It is concluded that male Balochi lambs, 8-10 month old fed on rations having 12 or 17% CP and 2600 Kcal ME/kg of feed make similar gains. Trial-II involved 16 Balochi and 16 Harnai male-lambs, 4-5 month old, randomly divided into 8 groups with 4 lambs of the same breed in a group. Two iso-nitrogenous (14% CP) rations A and B with 2300 or 2700 Kcal of ME/kg of feed, respectively were assigned to the 8 groups randomly such that there were two groups (8 lambs) of each breed on each ration. Rations were fed at libitum for 12 weeks and feed offered/refused was weighed daily and lambs were weighed weekly. Lambs fed on ration A gained weight (131 + 12 g/h/d) similar to that by lambs fed on ration B (150 + 12 g/h/d). Feed intake also did not differ by the lambs fed on ration A (1038 + 18 g/h/d) or B (1060 + 18 g/h/d). Balochi lambs gained more (P<0.05) weight (172 + 12 g/h/d) than Harnai lambs (127 + 12 g/h/d). Feed intake was also higher (P<0.05) by Balochi lambs (1215 + 18 g/h/d) than by the Harnai lambs (1016 + 18 g/h/d). It is concluded that Balochi lambs perform better than Harnai lambs fed similar rations.

Assessment of damage to skins and hides by external parasitic infestation in Balochistan (2002-03)

The prevalence of specific external parasitic diseases (warble fly, mites and ticks) that affect directly the quality of hides and skins was investigated in this study. For this purpose, information was collected from three sources i.e., i. warble fly infested cases recorded/treated in District Civil Veterinary Hospitals (DCVH) of Balochistan between January to December 2001, ii. direct physical observation of animal flocks, iii. Interviews of animal owners and skin dealers in Quetta, Kucklak and Mastung from August, 2002 to May 2003. Overall highest infestation (2.01%) by warble fly was recorded in native flocks while lower infestation i.e., 0.72%, 0.73% and 1.46% was recorded in slaughter-houses, non-local flocks and DCVHs, respectively. During the survey, overall highest (11.16%) tick infestation was recorded in non- local animal flocks while lower (4.19%) in native animal-flocks. Negligible mite infestation was recorded in native animal-flocks whereas non-local animal-flock were found free from this pest. Warble fly larvae and mites reduce animal skin/hide prices by 10-30% and 50-70%, respectively. The external parasitic infestations can be controlled and treated by dusting, dipping and administration of injectable medicines i.e., Poron solution, Cydectin and Ivergen injection with satisfactory results. To eradicate warble fly infestation, regular spraying and dusting of medicines in the affected animals with Trichlorfon, Segavon and Nagavan powder is effective in Balochistan. Similar practice was also carried out in the past and most of the warble flies were controlled in the Zhob area.  Provision of effective and low cost medicines against external parasitic infestation in livestock, adoption of proper animal health management practices and ban on illegal import/export of animals from/to neighbor countries is suggested as desired by the local livestock owners. The skin/hide dealers suggested price fixing on per square foot basis, introducing grading system and establishing a tannery for quality skin/hide production in Balochistan.

Figure 1. Warble fly larvae collected from a goat-skin.  

Figure 2. Inner side of a goat-skin perforated due to warble fly larvae.

Technology Transfer

The absorption of these technologies by the livestock farmers in Kovak, Dasht and Asghara areas of highland Balochistan through the AZRC demonstration efforts have shown that:

• Supplemental feeding of small ruminants, especially during winter forage deficit period has been adopted by the farmers of highland Balochistan.

• Inputs for health coverage of small ruminants are being made and farmers are widely using anti-parasitic medicine for their sheep/goats.

• The importance of clean and disease free housing of small ruminants is well realized by the farming community and dis-infection of sheds and barns is widely practiced now.

• The importance of reproduction is being realized and use of quality and proto-type uniform color rams for breeding is on the increase among the farming community.

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2. CROP SCIENCES RESEARCH PROGRAM

INTRODUCTION

Pakistan’s population is increasing at an alarming rate of 1.94% per annum. According to Pakistan Economic Survey 2003-04 there are more than 145.95 million people living in Pakistan. Likewise, livestock population is also on hike. Therefore, both food and feed deficits are inevitable. The country's present irrigated farmland would not produce enough wheat to feed an ever-multiplying population. As an alternative, marginal cultivable lands lying in arid/semi-arid areas are required to be utilized which can contribute moderately in overcoming and leveling the acute deficits in food and feed productivity. Therefore, after considerable forethought to the situation, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) launched Crop Sciences Research Program (Germplasm Evaluation Program) at the Arid Zone Research Center in 1984-85. Recently, this program has been re-organized into following three units:

a. PBG Unit

b. Plant Protection Unit           

c. Horticulture Unit (not yet functional).

a. PBG UNIT

OBJECTIVES 

Selection of germplasm of wheat, barley, and lentil for cold/drought tolerance and disease resistance for rainfed areas of Balochistan.

Determination of crop residue potential of selected genotypes for livestock feeding . 

ACCOMPLISHMENTS 

Following varieties of both cereals and food/forage legumes have been released after a rigorous testing in different agro-ecological zones of highland Balochistan:

Wheat and Barley Varieties: Following high yielding, cold and drought tolerant and disease resistant (Yellow Rust Resistant) one wheat (AZRI-96) and one barley (Sanober-96) variety for highland Balochistan have been approved by Balochistan Seed Council and Federal Seed Registration Department.

AZRI-96 (Wheat):  Average grain yield of AZRI-96 (Table 1) is 2000 kg/ha as compared to that of local landrace (1500 kg/ha). Similarly, total dry production (TDM) of AZRI-96 (7900 kg/ha) is also higher (Table 1) than the local wheat (7200 kg/ha).

Promising Lines (Wheat): In addition, another line {K98= DMN// SUT/ AG(ES86-7)/3/OPATA/4/Tx 71A1039-VI*3/ AMI}has been selected which is not only drought and cold tolerant but also yellow rust resistant. It is high grain yielding (2500 kg/ha) with TDM production 7500 kg/ha and flowers in 140 days and attains an average height of 100 cm (Table 2). It tolerates cold upto -17oC. Its test weight is 76.9 kg/hl. Its grain is white in color and protein content is 12.8 %. Similarly, we have also identified another promising line (Cham-6) of wheat from exotic material whose performance against prevalent stresses is very good (Table 2).

Sanober-96 (Barley): The average grain yield of AZRC barley variety, Sanober-96 (Table 1) is also higher (2000 kg/ha) than that of local barley (1500 kg/ha). Similarly, Sanober-96 also produces more TDM (5000 kg/ha) than that of local barley (4500 kg/ha).

Promising Line (Barley): Another promising line (Nal-03 = WI2291/WI2269) has flexibility in its genetic make-up and can be used both as full season and also as short season variety. The Nal-03 can produce 2100 kg/ha grain and 7000 kg/ha TDM when planted as full season variety (Table 2). If it is planted as late as February in the highlands of Balochistan when the area receives late rains during winter, it can give grain production about 700 kg/ha and TDM 2250 kg/ha.

Table 1. Released drought and cold tolerant and yellow rust resistant cereal varieties    

                        Wheat (kg/ha)                 Barley(kg/ha)  

             AZRI-96     Local            Sanober-96   Local  

     TDM           7900         7200                 5000           4500  

     GY             2000         1500                 2200           1600  

Table 2. Yield potential of crop varieties under highland Balochistan  (in pipeline)

                         Wheat             Barley(Kg/ha)             Lentil

                          K-98         Cham-6      Nal-03     ILL8076    ILL8081  

     TDM             7500         8000          7000         3000           2600  

     GY                2500         2000          2100          500            460  

 2. AZRC Cereal Breeder has also helped ARI in releasing a winter barley variety (Soorab-96).

3. Bold-Seeded high yielding, cold and drought tolerant food/forage legumes for highland Balochistan:

Shir-AZ-96 (Lentil): One bold-seeded lentil variety (Shir-AZ-96) released for highland Balochistan is highly cold and drought tolerant, wilt resistant and high yielding. It can give seed yield upto 700 kg/ha while the local ultra small seeded landrace yields 500 kg/ha. Similarly, the new variety gives TDM from 3500-4000 kg/ha in comparison to local lentil's 3000 kg/ha (Table 3).

Promising Lines (Lentil): Two promising lentil lines (ILL-8076 and ILL 8081) have also been evaluated for highland Balochistan (Table 2) which have good desirable traits against the prevalent biotic and abiotoic stresses in the target rainfed area .

Table 3. Released drought, cold tolerant and disease resistant food & forage legume varieties 

                                        
                              Lentil (Kg/ha)             Forage Legume (Kg/ha)
                            Shiraz-96    Local                  Kuhak-96

        TDM                4000          3000                     5000
        GY                   700            500                       500

Kuhak-96 (Forage Legume): One released forage legume variety (Kuhak-96) of Vicia dasycarpa (vetch) is suitable for winter planting. It is a good green forage producing variety under the prevailing stress of upland Balochistan. It can provide a good alternate source of feed for small ruminants in the target areas of the province during chilly months of winter when the forage is almost a rare commodity. It can produce seed upto 500 and TDM 5000 kg/ha (Table 3). Presently, no annually sown forage legume variety is available for winter planting in highland Balochistan.

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER 

*The AZRC crop varieties of cereals and legumes have been disseminated to more than 250 nucleus farmers of different agro-ecological zones of highland Balochistan.

*Barley variety (Sanober-96) is one of the most popular varieties of AZRC which has been adopted by farmers of highland Balochistan widely and especially in Nal area of Khuzdar where it has replaced the local barley varieties and its seed is being sold in Karachi market and also various districts of Punjab by AZRI, Bahawalpur. Its seed has been disseminated to more than 100 nucleus farmers of Punjab.

CURRENT RESEARCH ACTIVITIES

 1.      Germplasm evaluation of cereals (wheat & barley) and food legumes (lentil) against abiotic (cold & drought) biotic
          (yellow rust in cereals and Fusarium wilt in lentil) stresses in Balochistan.
 2.      Breeders Nulcleus Seed increase of varieties and promising lines. 

FUTURE PLAN OF WORK

 1.     Continuation of testing of exotic germplasm to have a flow of desirable genotypes in pipeline to avoid disasters brought
         by stresses like yellow rust, army worm, etc.
 2.     Higher priority would be given to address the problems of “Sailaba” and “Khushkaba” farming systems by developing
         suitable crop varieties for the area.
 3.     Seed multiplication of selected genotypes.

b. PLANT PROTECTION UNIT 
In province of Punjab, Sindh and NWFP plant protection sector establishments are well-developed and manned with highly qualified people. Contrary to this, in Balochistan very insignificant plant protection facilities were available. Keeping in view the international scenario and national activities in plant protection sector, there is a dire need of strengthening plant protection activities at AZRC, Quetta.                 

OBJECTIVES 

    1. Identify the economically important diseases of vegetables, Orchards and crops.
    2. Identify sources of resistant against economically important diseases.
    3. Provision of diagnostic services to farming Community.

ACHIEVEMENTS 2002-2004

• The diagnosis of the potato samples indicated the infection of potato leaf roll virus and potato virus Y.

• The chilies were infected with cucumber mosaic virus and chili venial mottle virus.

• The symptoms on tomato plants and the presence of white fly indicated the infection of tomato with tomato leaf curl virus.

Population dynamics of aphids and thrips was carried out at AZRC and Agric. College, Quetta. Data indicated that the aphid population was higher on wheat than barley i.e. 2 aphids/tiller on wheat and  < 2 aphids/tiller on barley. Thrips population was also higher on wheat as compared to barley i.e 3 and 1.5 thrips/tiller on wheat and barley respectively.

About 8 phenotypically different aphids and thrips were collected and identified as:

Apple

Rosy apple aphid  (Dysaphis plantagenia)
Green apple aphid (Aphis pomi)
Black aphid (Aphis spp.)

Almond, peach, cherry and apricot
Brown peach aphid (Lachnus persicae)
Almond, peach, apricot and plum Green peach aphid Myzus persicae 
Mint Mint Aphid Ovatus crataegarius (Walker)
Barley and wheat Barley thrips, Limothrips denticornis (Halliday) Grain aphid, acrosiphum (Sitobion) avenae F. and  Diuraphis noxia (Russian wheat aphid).

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3. LAND AND WATER RESOURCES RESEARCH PROGRAM 

INTRODUCTION 

Balochistan, province of Pakistan is by far the largest in size and the smallest in population. Upland Balochistan is located in South-Western (220N to 320N, 660E to 700E) Pakistan. The climate of upland Balochistan is continental semi- arid Mediterranean, with annual precipitation varying from 200 to 350 mm and a variable proportion of this total fall as moisture of snow and rain in the mid winter period or as intense showers in summer. Cereal crops in particular wheat are grown by most dryland farmers as dual purpose crop, with the grain is used for human consumption and the straw as animal feed. In Balochistan two types of dryland systems are prevailing.

Khushkaba: It is a type of farming in which only localized (with in field) run off is generated and crop suffer moderate to severe moisture stress during crop cycle.

Sailaba: It is a type of farming in which water is harvested through ephemeral streams, and crop complete its life cycle on the stored moisture.

Yield expectations are low, ranging from only 100 to 800 Kgha-1 in Khushkaba and 1000 to 1500kg ha-1 in sailaba farming. Farmers expect cultivation 3 - 5 years out of 10 years. In this high risk environment agricultural inputs are minimal.

In the arid uplands of Balochistan, environmental stresses are the main yield limiting factors in crop production. Major stresses are cold and drought in winter and the combined effects of drought and heat and a short growing season during spring.

RESEARCH ACCOMPLISHMENT 

Agronomic Response of Spring Wheat In Upland Balochistan.

Studies on spring planting material were tested at different sites of upland Balochistan. Out of 104 exotic entries, 9 superior genotypes were screened out with high yielding potential, having early maturity, drought tolerance, and resistant to yellow rust (Puccinia striiformis). The exotic selected genotypes had better tolerance to drought and heat stress than the local land race and produced more grain and straw yield. Selected genotypes have great potential to spring planting particularly for the areas of Quetta, Mastung, Kalat, Pishin and Muslim Bagh areas.

The Dryland Arable Farming System of Balochistan.

Barley Production under Sub-Optimal Conditions in Upland Balochistan

The livelihood of poor dryland farmers is livestock dependant. Livestock is being grazed on open range lands. Due to over- grazing, rangelands are degraded to a maximum. Barley is practiced as supplemental feed in irrigated areas. Three years trial data showed that water use efficiency (WUE) of barley varied from 9-14 Kgha-1 mm-1. Fertilizer helped in increasing WUE and biological yield, but was not economical to pay cost of fertilizer. Improved variety Arabic abiad (Syria) gave an increase of 20% in economic gross benefit. Change in crop-livestock system is required to shift the farmers from poor yielding wheat crop to better yielding crop of barley in dryland for sustainability of system and improved livestock production.

Comparison of Wheat and Barley Under Dryland Wheat

Results of the study reveal that water use efficiency of the local wheat land race was 8.7 kg ha-1 mm-1. Application of Phosphorous and Potassium fertilizers had little effect on yields. Nitrogen fertilizer application increased straw and grain yields of the local land race by 29% and 24%, respectively. Net returns for wheat production and returns for labor were low.

Barley  

Growth and yield of a number of Syrian land races and varieties were compared to local land race on farmer’s fields under dry land conditions. Rainfall during the crop growth varied from 32 to 220 mm, and grain yields varied from 10 to 1250 Kg ha-1, averaging 350 kg ha-1. The Syrian land races generally produced higher grain yields than the local. Application of Nitrogen and Phosphate fertilizer increased yields in almost all the trials.

The water use efficiency of the local barley land race was 11.2 Kg ha-1 mm-1, and when adjusted for differences in water availability, the barley yields were 35% higher than from dry land wheat.

Development of Seed Drill for Rain-fed Farming system

Soil moisture is a limiting factor in dryland crop production system. Animal drawn single row planter being used in dryland was time consuming and was not economical. Sowing at proper time plays an important role in dryland. The Oyjord planter was altered and developed for the scientific need. A tractor drawn 2-6-row semi-automatic, fully adjustable (seed rate, seed depth, and row spacing) and mounted type planter developed and tested successfully. This planter is useful for silt loam and silt clay- loam soils being found in valley bottoms of Balochistan.

Effect of Sowing Dates on Germination of Wheat

In dry land Balochistan people even go dry sowing also. The severe weather conditions, uncertain deficient rainfalls always affect wheat germination, particularly in areas between Loralie and Sorab. A study was carried out to determine the germination percentage on different sowing dates of  13th December, 21st December, 27th December, 3rd January, 10th January, 21st January, 1st February and 7th February. It was observed that germination of wheat increases when it was sown after 21 January and maximum germination was recorded when it was sown on 7th February. Germination was less in the wheat sown after 20th December as compared to the sowing of February; germination of wheat sown in the month January was meager. It is only because of very low temperature in these months and these very low temperatures do not allow wheat seed to germinate. These low temperatures remain up to late January. It is therefore recommended that farmers should wait for February for late sowing, if they are not in a position to sow wheat in the normal season.

Agronomic Testing Of Wheat, Barley and Food & Forage Legumes

The on-farm testing of potential wheat, barley, food and forage legume varieties were carried out to observe the response of lines at different locations in upland Balochistan.

Wheat:

The data of two years reveal that, TDM of Local was recorded as the highest  5601 Kg ha-1 whereas  AZRI-96 and ICW were the second and third with 5118.5 Kg ha-1and 5035 Kg ha-1, respectively. In biomass, Sariab-98 was the highest with 14507 Kg ha-1 where as ICW and L-Zamindar were second and third in terms of biomass with 13885 Kg ha-1 and 10877 Kg ha-1, respectively. Where as in grain production, AZRI-96 was highest with 1480 Kg ha-1 while Local and Sariab-98 remained second and third with 1420 and 1337 Kg ha-1, respectively.

Barley:

According to the data TDM of Wadi-e- Hassa (W.H) was recorded as the highest with 6666 Kg ha-1 where as R-99 and A.Aswad were recorded 6504 Kg ha-1 and 6472 Kg ha-1, respectively and remained second and third. The biomass of W. H was also highest 14497 Kg ha-1 as compared to R-99 and Arabic Aswad (A-As) 6504 Kg ha-1 and 6472 Kg ha-1 respectively. From grain yield point of view Arabic Aswad remained on top with 3363 Kg ha-1, whereas, Wadi-E-Hassa and R-99 remained second and third with grain yield of 2722 Kg ha-1 and 2654 Kg ha-1, respectively.

Food and forage legumes

Vicia produced highest TDM i.e; 5727 kg ha-1, where as LL2000 and Shir-AZ produced 4985 Kg ha-1 and 4095 kg ha-1 respectively; local land race produced lowest TDM i.e 2842 kg ha-1. From grain point of view Vicia remained on the top with grain yield of 1269 kg ha-1, while LS 2000 and LL2000 produced 1263 Kgha-1 and 1227 kg ha-1 respectively; where as Sher-AZ produced lowest grain yield.

Effect of Seed Rate and Row Spacing on  yield of Lentil

A trial was conducted to determine the appropriate seed rate and row spacing in lentil in Khushkaba, as new lines of lentil were introduced that were bold seeded and the appropriate seed rate and row spacing was known. Therefore, two seed rates of 40 and 60 kg ha-1 and two row spacing 30 cm and 50 cm were selected. Interaction of both seed rate and row spacing also reveals that 30 cm row spacing with seed rate of 60 Kg ha-1 produced highest grain yield i.e 656 Kg ha-1, whereas row spacing of 50 cm with seed rate of 60 Kg ha-1 produced more grain yield as compared to row spacing of 30 cm and seed rate of 40 Kg ha-1.

Water Harvesting and Nitrogen Fertilizer Application to Improve Water Use Efficiency

Nitrogen fertilizer application negatively affected the crop yield. Therefore, it is suggested that fertilizer should only be effective in wet years. Economic response to nitrogen can be expected only, if water availability is in the order of 300 mm, sustainability is only 5-25% of years under rainfed conditions in upland Balochistan. The simple water harvesting technology 1:1 on silty clayloam soils gave considerable yield increase, and in sandy loam soils this ratio must be 3:1. The results suggest that considerable increase in upland Balochistan is possible with combination of water harvesting and nitrogen fertilizer use.

Response of inoculation on food and forage legumes

Inoculation with Rhizobium Leguminosarum increased straw and herbage yields when water stress was less severe. It suggests that considerable yield can be increased in both food and forage legumes. Higher production could be achieved by development and extension of this technology, restricting inoculum use to years when soil water availability at planting is high.

WATER USE EFFICIENCY (WUEp)

1)  Importance and improvement

The average annual rainfall of Balochistan is 150-200 mm, which is not sufficient to obtain good crop of wheat. Trials were carried out to improve the water use efficiency at five different locations in upland Balochistan. The results of the data suggest that application of Phosphorous, improved tillage and improved water harvesting (ridging, ephemeral stream diversions and bunding) are advantageous in improving Water Use efficiency (WUE).

2)  WUEp of wheat varieties

The experiment was designed to evaluate the water use efficiency of different varieties. Data show that total precipitation of the year was 262 mm. In this precipitation wheat variety AZRI- 931 performed well in total dry matter (TDM) and grain yield, and water use efficiency was also best as compared to other wheat varieties.

AZRI-932 ranked third in TDM, but second in grain yield. Whereas, local land race remain second in TDM and third in grain yield. From water use efficiency point of view, AZRI-931 remained at the top with12.3 WUEp kg ha-1 in TDM and 4.1 in grains. AZRI-932 performed poor in water use efficiency in TDM, but performed well in water use efficiency of grains.

Catchment Basin Water Harvesting

Catchment basins were established on gentle slop (0.5-1o) in valley bottom soils by mold- board plowing for the upper portion of fields by removing weeds and pulverizing the soil with heavy wooden plank mounted on a three point hitch behind the tractor.

Catchment basin water harvesting is recommended for the valley bottom soils for productivity, improvement and yield stability where traditional form of water harvesting is not possible. Result suggested that only less than and equal to 227 mm annual rainfall in 50 % of the years. If 50 or 67 % of the field was compacted for catchment which comes to 1:1 and 2:1 respectively. An additional 101 and 201 mm of runoff is expected which gives annual receipts of 328 and 528 mm. 1:1, 2:1 and control were compared on farmers field in Dusht, Mastung and Kovak areas during 1986/89 trials. Higher yields were experienced in both 1:1 and 2:1 treatments. Data indicated that 43 mm additional water storage in 1:1, 67 mm in 2:1 and runoff efficiencies of 55 % in 1:1 and 43 % in 2:1.

Agro-meteorology

The Khushkaba, sailaba farming system of upland Balochistan is indigenous and needs to be coordinated with the scientific information. Archive met data was imported and AZRC developed software package “BELINDA” used to develop different probabilities for research and planning.

The uncertain rainfall and temperature regimes of upland Balochistan are highly risky for sailaba and Khushkaba farming systems, rains are deficient, summers and winters are severe, crop also suffer terminal cold and yellow rust. The detail analysis of Khuzdar and Lorali shows 40% of median rainfall during July and August, permitting autumn sowing in six (Lorali) or seven (Khuzdar) years out of ten. 

Less then 10% for Quetta, autumn cereals can be expected two or three years out of ten. Cumulative probabilities of spring sowing for Quetta are 93% while it is <60% for Lorali and Khuzdar. Low temperatures delays spring plantation while terminal cold destroys local wheat in Kalat to Lorali areas. Temperature data suggests that at Quetta, spring plantation should be started after 20th January, where as at Khuzdar and Loralai there is no serious restriction for winter sowing. Spring varieties having drought and cold resistance, short season, capable of rapid germination are recommended for the areas. Crop varieties with considerable winter hardness are required for elevation of 1500 meter or above (since Quetta is 1587 m high). Khuzdar and Loralai (1231 & 1431) represent a traditional zone in this respect. Over all old Loralai including Barkhan and Musakhail districts have better rainfall distribution.

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER 

    i)   Alteration and Development of Oyjord Seed drill for ridge furrow sowing in dry- lands. 
    ii)  Catchment Basin Water Harvesting technologies for dry lands. 
    iii) Introduction of inoculation for lentils in drylands. 
    iv) Introduction of Fertilizers in Uplands of Balochistan.

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4. RANGE & FORESTRY RESEARCH PROGRAM

INTRODUCTION

Balochistan is a vast arid and semiarid region situated in the south-west of Pakistan between latitudes 25 oN and 32 oN. It is the largest and most sparsely populated province of Pakistan, with an area of 34.7 million hectares. About 80% of the area can be classified as inter-mountainous. The remaining 20% consists of flood plains and coastal plains. The important mountain ranges are Sulaiman, Toba-Kakar, Central Brahui, Kirthar, Chagai, Raskoh and central Makran and Markan coast. The unfavourable topographic, edaphic and climatic conditions in Balochistan have restricted the area of cultivation, leaving most for rough grazing. About 93% of the area of Balochistan is classified as rangelands.

Balochistan ranges provide a diversity of uses, including forage for livestock, wildlife habitat, medicinal plants, watershed, fuel wood, and recreational activity. Rangelands are the major source of feed for 90-95% of sheep and goats. Sheep and goat rearing is the main use of these areas and about 80% of the rural population derive their livelihood from the sale of small ruminants and by products. Nomadic, transhumant, and sedentary are the three major grazing systems in Balochistan. Out of the total area of Balochistan, 21 million ha (60%) is used for grazing. Nearly 12 of the 21 million ha is classified as poor grazing, providing annually only 30-50 kg dry matter (DM) from a hectare, whereas only 2.9 million ha of better rangeland providing 250-280 kg DM from each hectare.

Overgrazing, drought and human disturbances caused severe degradation of rangelands in Balochistan. The degradation processes of rangelands include changes in composition of desirable species, decrease in rangeland bio-diversity and productivity, reduction of perennial plant cover, and soil erosion. A major concern of Balochistan ranges is the progressive reduction of productivity, elimination of desirable species, and how to manage and restore the health of these degraded ranges. Range and Forestry Research Programme of Arid Zone Research Center, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council is carrying out research activities to better understand the vegetation dynamics and improvement potential of arid and semi-arid ranges of Balochistan.

The main objectives of the Range and Forestry Research Programme are:

• To characterize and monitor the rangeland resources.

• To conduct ecological studies on native range species.

• To conduct range restoration and rehabilitation studies.

• To determine the nutritional and anti-nutritional compounds in range species.

• To conduct ecological and agronomic studies on medicinal herbs.

• To evaluate suitable fodder tree species.

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 

Range & Forestry Research Program of AZRC conducts research activities on a variety of issues like long term rangeland monitoring, evaluation of exotic and local germplasm of potential forage species for range improvement, ecological studies on native range species, seasonal variation in nutritional and anti-nutritional compounds of range species, and evaluation of potential medicinal herbs.

A wide range of germplasm of various species of grasses, shrubs, and trees were collected and range nurseries were established at AZRC. Various species were tested in different ecological zones of Balochistan for adaptability, biomass production, and nutritional characteristics. Studies were carried out to determine the potential for biological recovery of heavily grazed grasslands by protecting the area from grazing. Long-term range monitoring studies were initiated to assess rangeland dynamics and trends in terms of biomass availability and permanent vegetation cover at different sites in Balochistan. Experiments were conducted to determine the above ground seasonal forage production and nutritional characteristics of Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon jwarancusa. Experiments were conducted to determine how seed attributes, seed dispersal mechanisms, seed bank dynamics, seed predation, and seedbed micro-habitat influences on the regeneration of Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon jwarancusa. Chemical composition of native shrubs and grasses (relative to nutritional needs of sheep, goats) and to relate that chemical composition to water use efficiency (WUE) as measured by the carbon isotope composition of leaves and stems of shrubs and grasses along a short topographic gradient were evaluated. Studies were also conducted to assess the nutritional status of sheep and goats grazing two rangeland types in Balochistan. These types are Artemisia maritime and Haloxylon griffithii association represented by the Zarchi (dist. Kalat) range and Cymbopogon-Chrysopogon at Tomagh (dist Ziarat).

Efforts are underway for the establishment of medicinal herb garden at AZRC and introduction of potential medicinal herbs and spices as crops in Balochistan

ACHIEVEMENTS

Introduction of Atriplex canescens and Atriplex lentiformis in highland Balochistan

Atriplex canescens and Atriplex lentiformis commonly known as fourwing saltbush and Quail saltbush (Figs. 1 & 2) are exotic halophyte from the western United States. These are perennial drought and cold tolerant shrubs and can successfully be planted in areas with 250 mm annual rainfall. 

Fig 1. Atriplex canescens plant with dense green foliage

These species start new growth in early spring that continues until late summer when moisture limits further growth. Micro-catchment water harvesting could enhance and prolong growth. A 1.0 m tall Atriplex canescens plant with 0.60 m crown diameter would provide about 0.25 kg dry matter as leaf and about 0.72 kg dry matter as wood. The amount of leaf offered each day, supplemented with wheat or barley straw or stubble, is sufficient to maintain the live weight of a sheep.

Fig 2. Atriplex lentiformis plants at seed formation stage.

A forage-reserve of 1 ha of Atriplex canescens with 2,500 plants would maintain 28 sheep with browse for three months in late summer, autumn, or winter when range vegetation is extremely scarce in highland Balochistan.

Feeding small ruminants on Atriplex alone is seldom recommended because of the poor energy value of the leaves and the associated moderate intake. Therefore, to obtain modest live-weight gain, supplementation is necessary either with barley or wheat straw. The protein content of Artiplex canescens leaves decreases from 25% in April to 10% in August and gradually increases during winter to about 20%. The netural detergent fiber (NDF) content peaked in May, decreased gradually during summer and autumn and recovered again during winter, whereas acid detergent fibre (ADF) content decreased gradually until September but then remained fairly stable.

Browsing of shrubs in forage reserves is considered to be the appropriate way to use Atriplex species, although cut and carry may be used in cases where farmers wish to cut large bushes for fuelwood and to encourage re-growth. Gently sloping valley bottoms of highland Balochistan are the most suitable areas for establishing Atriplex forage reserves. A package of Atriplex technology has been developed by AZRC that addresses all related aspects of saltbush technology i.e., transplanting techniques and managing saltbush reserves for grazing and fuelwood production.

Introduction of Salsola vermiculata: A Self-regenerating fodder shrub

Salsoal vermiculata commonly called saltwort is an exotic Mediterranean arid zone fodder species (Fig.3). This species belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family. It is saline and drought tolerant, a good pasture species across all seasons and is palatable to small ruminants. S. vermiculata has the potential of self regeneration and establishment under good rainfall years.

Fig.3. Salsola vermiculata - a potential fodder shrub for range improvement in highland Balchistan.

S. vermiculata showed excellent survival under the extreme drought conditions of Balochistan. Forage production ranged from 250-650 kg/ha with an equal amount of wood production. Crude protein content ranged from 15-18%. 

Eragrostis curvula: A potential grass for Rangeland Improvement

Cool and warm season exotic grass species were evaluated in different parts of Balochistan for their adaptability and biomass production. In Loralai, Eragrostis curvula (weeping lovegrass) showed excellent performance (Fig 4).

Fig 4. Eragrostis curvula (weeping love-grass) plantation in Tomagh (Loralai).

This is a warm season, perennial bunch grass. Dry matter production of weeping love grass in Tomagh (Loralai) ranged from 1945 to 2424 kg/ha.  Crude protein content ranged from 8 to 10%.

Biological Recovery of Grasslands in Balochistan

Efforts were directed to understand the dynamics of biological recovery of degraded rangelands of Balochistan. Above ground biomass productivity inside exclosure vary from 224 kg/ha to 605 kg/ha compared to outside exclosure of 17 to 279 kg/ha. Grassland at Tomagh has responded more vigorously to protection and biological recovery. Heavily grazed grasslands of Tomagh has potential of biological recovery if protected from grazing at least for two years depending upon rainfall distribution.

Rangeland Monitoring Studies in Highland Balochistan 

Long-term range monitoring studies were initiated to assess rangeland dynamics and trends in terms of biomass availability and permanent vegetation cover. The forage biomass data collected from the range sites in a typical mountain region indicate that the rangeland productivity is more a function of seasonal rainfall than the grazing pressure alone. Though the vegetation types (Artemisia-Haloxylon shrub steppe) in Hazarganji and Mangochar sites and (Cymbopogon-Chrysopogon mixed shrub grassland) in Tomagh range site are  considered to be fairly drought resistant but the spring and fall season forage production showed a drastic low value at all sites due to drought during 1998-2002. However, low forage biomass values also indicate heavy grazing pressure during the drought years and therefore, reflect combined effect of both drought and the resultant heavy grazing pressure.

Seasonal Variation in Biomass of Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon jawarancusa in Highland Balochistan 

Current season growth and nutritional characteristics of Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon jwarancusa were assessed on monthly basis at Hazarganji National Park. Above ground current season biomass production of both species peaked in June and then showed a declining trend. The current season biomass of Cymbopogon jwarancusa rangesd from 27 kg/ha in April to 51 kg/ha in June whereas Chrysopogon aucheria current season biomass production ranged from 2 kg/ha in April to 54 kg/ha in June. The trend of current season growth in 2002 was also similar to 2001 except slight increases in biomass due to better rainfall and availability of soil moisture.

The nutrition of both grasses decreased with the advancement of the phonological growth stages. In early spring, both grasses were of higher quality (nitrogen and phosphorous). The concentrations of K and Mg were below the recommended minimum requirements for small ruminants. Therefore, grazing management is required for better utilization of protected  grasslands.

Regeneration ecology of Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon jwarancusa in grasslands of upland Balochistan

Experiments were conducted to determine how seed attributes, seed dispersal mechanisms, seed bank dynamics, seed predation, and seedbed microhabitats influence the regeneration of Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon jwarancusa. Cymbopogon jwarancusa was superior to Chrysopogon aucheri in several aspects of plant recruitment. Cymbopogon jwarancusa produced more filled and viable caryopses than Chrysopogon aucheri. Chrysopogon aucheri solely dispersed triplet spikelet, whereas Cymbopogon jwarancusa dispersed paired spikelets and groups of spiklelets (partial racemes, entire racemes, and partial inflorescens). Ant (Tica Verona) predators appeared to have a greater preference for Chrysopogon aucheri spikelets than Cymbopogon jwarancusa spikelets. Both species had a weakly persistent seed bank.

Both species are capable of natural regeneration when protected from livestock grazing; however, it appears that Cymbopogon jwarancusa has a distinct advantage over Chrysopogon aucheri during the initial stages of plant recruitment. Recruitment of both species is probably very sporadic because of the variability in the amount and distribution of precipitation within and between years. Regeneration of grasslands required proper grazing and protection from grazing to ensure seed production and reserves of soil seed bank.

Dietary composition and nutritional status of sheep and goats grazing two rangeland types in Balochistan

Studies were conducted to assess the nutritional status of sheep and goats grazing two rangeland types in Balochistan. These types were Artemisia maritime/Haloxylon griffithii association represented by the Zarchi (Kalat) and Cymbopogon-Chrysopogon at Tomagh (Loralai). Forage  quality decreased with the advancement of phonological growth stages. Spring forage samples were of higher quality than those of other seasons. Grasses were lower in crude protein concentration and higher in netural detergent fiber content than forbs and shrubs. From March through October, sheep and goat diets varied in their botanical composition on both sites. Grasses remained a major component of animal diets at Tomagh throughout the grazing seasons. However, sheep and goats consumed a higher percentage of shrubs with the passage of time. Across all grazing seasons, the diets of both animal species were deficient in protein and phosphorus.

Highly variable (both positive and negative) digestion coefficients for lignin were obtained by using sheep and goat rumen liquors. As much as 51.0% of forage lignin in samples was digested. Negative lignin digestion co-efficients were also obtained from forage samples. These ranged from –1.0% to 103.0%. Lignin bio-degradation and/or complexing during in vitro digestion invalidated its use as an internal marker in digestion studies on these rangelands. The information can be utilized for successful range management including calculation of forage calendar, nutritional value of range plants and the cycle of nutritional requirements of the small ruminants.

Nutrient characteristics of foliage and the availability of water in a rangeland near Quetta

Chemical composition of native shrubs and grasses were determined related to water use efficiency (WUE measured by the carbon isotope composition of leaves and stems of shrubs and grasses) along a short topographic gradient at Hazarganji National Park. Communities at each point of the elevation gradient varied in species composition.  At the lowest point, the grasses Chrysopogon aucheri and Cymbopogon schoenanthus were common. The dominant shrubs were Artemisia scoparia and Sophora griffithi.  As elevation increased, these grasses were replaced by Bromus spp at a lower density, and the shrubs were replaced by Ferula ovina, Perowskia atriplicifolia, Prunus eburnea and Fraxinus xanthoxyloides, again at a lower density.  At the highest point of the gradient, plant density was least and much less than at lower points.  Caragana vlicina, Caragana ambigua and Ephedra intermedia dominated with a few scattered grasses.

The d13C data from Hazarganji strongly suggest that more water was available at the bottom of the elevation gradient (less negative d13C).  The d13C data match the measured increase in non-protein nitrogen in shrubs and grasses with elevation. Plants accumulate non-protein nitrogen, mostly non-essential amino acids, in response to drought.  The concentration of non-protein nitrogen would increase while that of total nitrogen will decline as plants mature and as water availability continues to decline later in the year.

The low N:P ratio of both shrubs and grasses is suggestive of an N limitation and is a common constraint to productivity in rangelands throughout the world.  Nonetheless, at the time of sampling, all species, with the exception of the few annual grasses and Ephedra nebrodensis, had concentrations of nitrogen in foliage that were greater than the recommended minimum for ruminants. Concentrations of phosphorus and calcium were marginal for grazing ruminants except in a few species and Ca:P ratios were between 1:1 and 2:1 which is ideal for growth and bone formation.  All shrub and grass species had lower concentrations of potassium than recommended. Magnesium concentrations were also low in all species. The preliminary studies of plant nutrition in Hazarganji Chiltan National Park has provided a single example of the effects of water availability on forms of N in forage plants (albeit confounded by changes in species composition along the gradient) and an overview of the variation in nutrient concentrations among species. 

Introduction of Medicinal Herbs and Spices as Crops in Balochistan

Herbs can be used in many forms like flavors, spices, perfumes and medicinal ingredients.  Most herbs contain essential oils (Volatile oils), which are responsible for the distinctive taste and fragrance. Other major chemical compounds include aldehydes, ketones and alcohols. In Balochistan, there are several medicinal plants, which are used, locally in traditional preparation but they have not been scientifically investigated so far for commercial scale production. Some of the potential aromatic/medicinal herb plants, which have potential to increase the income of local farmers of Balochistan, are Lavender, rosemary, mint, thyme, marjoram, oregano, basil, dill, sage, funnel, and tarragon. Efforts were directed for introduction of new spices/herbs in Balochistan farming systems, promotion of cultivation of medicinal herbs and spices in farming systems, agronomic research on medicinal herbs and spices for improvement in production technology at farmer’s fields and establishment of medicinal herb garden.

Experiments on various herbs are underway. Medicinal herb garden was established at AZRC. Fifty five exotic species were raised at AZRC Medicinal Herbs garden. These species have many uses for treating different diseases.

TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER 

Through the integrated efforts of AZRC and Balochistan Forest Department as well as NGO's such as FAO/UNDP Watershed Planning and Management and Integrated Range/Livestock projects, ADB Livestock Production extension Project, FAO Inter-regional Upland Conservation Project, seedling of fourwing saltbush and quail saltbush have been planted in various districts of Balochistan.  AZRC is also supplying seeds of Atriplex canescens and A. lentiformis to various NGOs and line departments for large scale  nursery establishment in various parts of cold mountain areas in Balochistan along with technical know-how about nursery raising and planting.

Range and Forestry Research Programme of AZRC in collaboration with OXFAM, Action Aid, and farmers of desert area of Nushki (Balochistan) has successfully planted two Atriplex species (Atriplex canescens and A. lentiformis) at Dhak area in Chagai district. Two nurseries were established near Nushki area for seedling multiplication of Atriplex and Salsola species.

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5. AGRICULTURE ECONOMICS 

INTRODUCTION:

Keeping in view the importance of agricultural economic section, it was established during mid 80s. Its role was to work in the field of socioeconomic research on crop-livestock areas independently and to help interact with biological scientists of various disciplines of AZRC. Since the establishment of Agricultural Economic Research Unit (AERU) at Agriculture Research Institute ARI), Sariab, in 1987, the research work on socioeconomic at AZRC has virtually been combined to save financial resources and avoid duplication.  The staff strength at AZRC remained not as much of earlier. 

Specifically, the section has following mandates:

    1)  To conduct descriptive and diagnostic surveys, 
    2)  To identify on-farm problems and farmers’ research needs and translate into research priority,
    3)  To evaluate economic/social benefits and cost of new technologies,
    4)  To determine the socio-economic viability of alternative technologies to identify farm level constraints
         in their adoption, and 
    5)  To conduct macro level studies on specific commodities and highlight areas for policy interventions.

A large numbers of research publications are in the credit of agricultural economic section. The abstracts of major studies carried out since 1987 to 2003 are offered in the following pages.

SALIENT FINDINGS 

Constraints in dryland Agriculture

Different diagnostic studies on dryland agricultural systems identified the major constraints which include rangelands management and control problems, poor genetic potential of animals and nutritional deficit, etc.

Economic Losses due to Yellow Rust Infestation

Survey on the economic impact of yellow rust infestation in wheat crop estimates grain revenue losses due to yellow rust infestation in three districts (Khuzdar, Kalat and Loralai) were Rs. 123.07 million with corresponding estimated straw revenue losses of Rs. 76.60 million.

Economics of Water Harvesting

Economics of water harvesting results show that at the best, the treatment 1:1 increased net return by 35% in wheat and 7% in barley as compared to the traditional farmer's practices. Correspondingly economic risks were reduced by 30% in wheat and 15% in barley.

Camel Utilization in Balochistan

Camel utilization practices in highland Balochistan reveal that per capita camel availability is about one camel per 14 persons. The average number of camels owned was 5.2, which results in three hectare of total cultivable land per camel. Female camels are used for transportation while 60% of the camel owners preferred using male camel for ploughing, planking and planting.

Women Participation in Agriculture

Results of a survey of women participation in upland Balochistan shows that their participation extends to all aspects of agricultural and livestock production, in addition to which, many contribute supplementary income through home-based income generating activities. In spite of this critical role, the results show that the respondents have little independent access to productive resources, and are by and large excluded from the decision-making process affecting the household.

Marketing of sheep/goat skins in Balochistan