Variation In Seedling Growth of Balanites aegyptiaca (l.) Delile from Different Seed Sources in Arid and Semi-Arid Nigeria

The influence of seed sources on the growth characteristics of a fast-declining important edible wild fruit tree species (Balanites aegyptiaca) was investigated. Seeds sourced from 8 locations were sown on different seed beds representing the locations. 100 seedlings of similar height growth from each seed bed were transplanted into polythene bags. The experiments were arranged in a Completely Randomize Design (CRD) with 5 replicates. The stem diameter (SD mm), stem height (SH cm), number of leaves (NL), root length (RL), absolute growth rate by plant height (AGRPH cm day-1), relative growth rate by dry weight (RGRDW cm day-1) and absolute growth rate by dry matter (AGRDM mg g-1 day-1) were assessed. SD, CD, NL and RL varied significantly among seed sources. CD and SD were highest in Dumsai with each recording 4.91 and 60.82, respectively. NL ranged from 166.60 (Mashi) to 104.70 (Gamawa), RL increased from 34.01±6.46 (Baure) to 46.71±20.18 (Mashi). Seedlings of Dumsai origin demonstrated better growth characteristics compared to other sources and could serve as a good source of seed for domestication and improvement of the species.