3.1 Scope and objectives
- ICRAF's MPTS data base is an inventorialtype of data base as opposed to a specialized or supplementarytype of data base (e.g., EWC/UH data on pest control properties of woody perennials).
- Therefore it has a broader approach in terms of both geography and subject areas covered.
- Only woody perennials, including palms and bamboos, are the subject of this worldwide inventory of tree and shrub species useful for multiple land-use systems in the tropics and sub-tropics.
- Particular emphasis is placed on uses of MPTS and on their biophysical requirements,
- tolerances and intolerances. Supplementary information is provided on phenology, morphology, environmental tree characteristics, propagation and establishment methods, tree manipulation and cultivation problems (see also Appendices 1-3).
The overall objectives of the data base can be summarized as follows:
(i) To collect and systematically store existing information and data on MPTS species of the tropics and sub-tropics;
(ii) To assess the biophysical range of MPTS;
(iii) To assess uses beyond the known commercial ones, e.g. timber;
(iv) To provide the basis for the economic assessment of MPTS (yield data on fodder, food and other products) to facilitate the economic analysis of agroforestry systems;
(v) To provide and facilitate the selection of priority MPTS species for further development;
(vi) To identify information gaps and research needs;
(vii) To develop an information system which can facilitate pre-selection procedures of MPTS species by site matching, and which makes response to any other inquiry on MPT species possible.