AgroForestryTree Database
The Agroforestree
(AFT) Database is a species reference and selection guide for agroforestry
trees. In the context of the database, agroforestry
trees are those that are deliberately grown or kept in integrated land-use
systems and are often managed for more than one output. They are expected
to make a significant economic or ecological impact, or both.
The main objective of the database is to provide
detailed information on a number of species to field workers and researchers
who are engaged in activities involving trees suitable for agroforestry
systems and technologies. It is designed to help them make rational decisions
regarding the choice of candidate species for defined purposes. Information
for each species covers species identity, ecology and distribution, propagation
and management, functional uses, pests and diseases and a bibliography.
To date, more than 500 species have been included. The specific aims of
the database are to:
- enable quick and efficient access to a consolidated pool of information on tree species that can assume useful production or service functions, or both;
- provide a tool that will assist with the selection of species for use in agroforestry and related research using factors that are relevant to the chosen agroforestry technologies;
- help researchers assess potential agroforestry trees for uses other than those commonly known, such as timber;
- provide indicators for the economic assessment of species through yield information on tree products.