Variability Studies in Morphometric Traits on Quercus leucotrichophora A. Camus Natural Populations in Himachal Pradesh

Variability studies on Quercus leucotrichophora A. Camus Populations (Banoak) in Himachal Pradesh was carried out during 2014-16 for selection of best phenotypes. In order to select best sites for improved genetic gain and quality production of Quercus leucotrichophora, eight sites and three D.B.H. classes from Himachal Pradesh were evaluated on the basis of morphometric traits. The study revealed significant variation among different sites for traits viz., tree height, clean bole height, crown width, leaf area, leaf length, leaf width. Whereas, among the different diameter classes all the traits showed significant variation except number of primary branches, leaf area, leaf width. Over all site S8 (Salooni-Chamba) was found to be superior followed by Site S6 (Manikaran-Kullu) for all traits. Diameter class D3 ( > 60 cm) excelled in morphometric traits. Study concluded that superiority of S8 (Salooni) and S6 (Manikaran) populations from large diameter class D3 ( > 60 cm dbh) for obtaining seed /propagules for further testing and obtaining best results.