Screening of non-industrial tree species on reclaimed desert land in Middle Egypt

Thirty-two multipurpose tree species were screened for their potential for planting under irrigated conditions on reclaimed land in the Nile Valley. The 11 most promising species, in terms of survival and early growth, were evaluated in terms of wood biomass production 42 months after planting. In addition, the fodder quality of six of the species was assessed in terms of nutritive value. The highest wood biomass producers were, in decreasing order, Leucaena leucocephala, Casuarina cumminghamiana and Acacia saligna. Leucaena collinsii ssp. zacapana had the most nutritious leaves, with high crude protein combined with low fibre content.