Pioneer species, sand dune fixation and afforestation of arid areas
Prosopis cineraria can survive in extreme conditions and has been used for sand dune fixation in various projects in Somalia and in the United Arab Emirates (AAI News, 1998; Mahony, 1994). Its taproot can reach the water table and extract water down to 20 m. Studies have suggested that it can absorb moisture through its leaves. Those features made it suitable for afforestation of arid areas (Pasiecznik et al., 2004; AAI News, 1998).
Invasiveness
Because of its pioneering ability, Prosopis cineraria is not suitable for planting in riverine areas or subhumid environments where it can become an aggressive colonizer and spread rapidly (Sandison et al., 1991).
Soil improver, intercropping and agroforestry species
Prosopis cineraria is a N-fixing tree that improves the nitrogen status of the soil. In the drier areas, yields of neighbouring crops or grasses were nearly doubled under the canopy of Prosopis cineraria trees (Le Houérou, 1980). The tree does not compete for water as it goes deeper to extract water (Orwa et al., 2009). Nutrient levels (N, P and K), moisture content and organic carbon of soil have been reported to be higher under the tree canopy when compared to the open area (Puri et al., 1994; Le Houérou, 1980). The canopy was favourable to chikpea cultivation within 14 m distance from the trunk (Puri et al., 1994). In arid north-western India, Prosopis cineraria was reported to increase sorghum crop yields on rainfed farmland. It may be the only Prosopis species suited to agro-forestry (Mahony, 1994). It has been recommended for intercropping trials in rainfed areas of Somalia. It could be planted in hedgerows at reduced intervals (1 m) (Mahony, 1994).