Evaluation of Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) and Anticipated Performance Index (API) of Underutilized Minor Fruit Plants of Northeast India for Sustainable Urban Green Space

ABSTRACT

The present study evaluates the ability of selected plant species to tolerate air pollution and their potential contribution to sustainable urban green space development by integrating the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) with the anticipated performance index (API). Ten underutilized minor fruit plant species were investigated at polluted and control sites during the pre‐ and post‐monsoon seasons in the Nagaon district, Assam, Northeast India. Four critical leaf biochemical variables, namely, ascorbic acid content, total chlorophyll content, relative water content, and leaf extract pH, were measured to determine APTI. Two‐way ANOVA and correlation analyses showed statistically significant variation in APTI values, with a positive correlation between ascorbic acid content and APTI, indicated by a high Pearson correlation coefficient ( R ²  = 0.9581). The highest APTI value was observed in Baccaurea sapida (Roxb.) Müll.Arg. (14.42 ± 0.29), whereas the lowest was recorded in Terminalia chebula Retz. (12.38 ± 0.35). Moreover, the API was assessed by integrating APTI values with relevant socioeconomic and biological characteristics, thereby identifying Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. (grade = 5, score = 75%) as a very good species that is highly suitable for plantation in green spaces and urban ecosystem development initiatives. Hence, this study highlights the potential of these plant species to combat air pollution while enhancing aesthetic value and providing socioeconomic and nutritional benefits.