International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 368-380 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 377 7Role of Ficus carica in Agroforestry and Sustainable Practices 7.1 Contribution to sustainable agricultural practices Ficus carica also plays a significant role in sustainable agricultural practices, particularly within agroforestry systems. Agroforestry integrates trees with crops and livestock, promoting efficient resource utilization and enhancing soil health. The inclusion of fig trees in agroforestry systems can improve soil fertility, structure, and biodiversity, which are crucial for sustainable agriculture (Kuyah et al., 2019; Udawatta et al., 2019; Fahad et al., 2022). The deep root systems of fig trees help in nutrient cycling and water retention, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and irrigation (Fahad et al., 2022). Additionally, fig trees provide shade and microclimate regulation, which can protect crops from extreme weather conditions and improve overall farm resilience (Kuyah et al., 2019; Tschora and Cherubini, 2020). 7.2 Potential for use in soil conservation and reforestation projects Ficus carica is highly effective in soil conservation and reforestation efforts due to its robust root system and adaptability to various soil types. It was reported that the roots of fig trees help in binding soil particles together, thereby reducing soil erosion and runoff (Rafidison et al., 2020; Fahad et al., 2022). This characteristic makes fig trees suitable for planting in degraded lands and areas prone to erosion. Moreover, fig trees can be used in reforestation projects to restore ecological balance and improve soil health. Their ability to thrive in diverse climatic conditions, including arid and semi-arid regions, makes them an excellent choice for reforestation initiatives aimed at combating desertification and land degradation. 7.3 Economic and ecological benefits: food security and biodiversity The cultivation of Ficus carica offers numerous economic and ecological benefits, contributing to food security and biodiversity. Economically, fig trees provide a valuable source of income for farmers through the sale of fresh and dried figs, which are rich in nutrients and have a high market demand (Ighbareyeh et al., 2018; Dalkılıç, 2022; Mellal et al., 2023). The fruit's nutritional value, including vitamins, minerals, and carbohydrates, supports local food security by providing a reliable food source (Dalkılıç, 2022). Ecologically, fig trees support biodiversity by providing habitat and food for various species, including birds and insects, which are essential for pollination and pest control (Udawatta et al., 2019; Rafidison et al., 2020; Castle et al., 2021). The presence of fig trees in agroforestry systems enhances the overall biodiversity of the landscape, promoting a healthier and more resilient ecosystem (Udawatta et al., 2019; Castle et al., 2021). 8 Concluding Remarks Fig (Ficus carica L.), demonstrates remarkable adaptability to various environmental conditions, particularly in arid and saline environments. Studies have shown that certain cultivars exhibit high water-retention capabilities and resilience to drought conditions, making them suitable for cultivation in dry regions. Additionally, the fig's ability to thrive in diverse ecological settings, from the Mediterranean to Northwestern India, underscores its ecological versatility. The fig is also noted for its rich phytochemical composition, which includes bioactive compounds with significant pharmacological properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory activities. These attributes not only enhance its value in traditional medicine but also highlight its potential in modern pharmacological applications. Despite the extensive research on Ficus carica, several gaps remain. There is a need for more comprehensive studies on the molecular mechanisms underlying its adaptability to salinity and drought stress. For instance, while transcriptome analysis has provided insights into the fig's response to salinity, further research is required to identify and characterize the specific genes involved in these stress responses. Additionally, the ecological interactions between Ficus carica and its endophytic fungal communities, which contribute to its resilience and antimicrobial properties, warrant deeper investigation. Future research should also focus on optimizing propagation techniques to ensure the production of high-quality, disease-free seedlings, which is crucial for sustainable fig cultivation.
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