Tree-ring analysis of teak (Tectona grandis L.F.) in central India and its relationship with rainfall and moisture index

Tree-ring-width index chronologies of teak (Tectona grandis L.F.) from three sites in central India have been studied for their dendroclimatic potential. The existence of good correlation among the three site chronologies indicates the influence of common forcing factor to the tree growth of the region. Tree growth and climate relationship based on correlation analysis revealed the important contribution of moisture index and rainfall rather than the direct influence of the temperature on tree growth during different seasons. Significant positive relationship of moisture index and rainfall during the monsoon months as well as on the annual scale with tree-ring width variations over the region indicates the important role of moisture availability at the root zone. The results suggest that the teak tree-ring chronologies can be used as high resolution proxy for past precipitation and moisture level in the environment.