Anatomical Variation and Wood Properties of Aquilaria crassna and Gyrinops walla for Timber and Agroforestry Applications

This study evaluates the anatomical and mechanical properties of Aquilaria crassna and Gyrinops walla, two agarwood-producing tree species. Samples were collected from eight-year-old plants grown at Marambekanda Estate, Sadaharitha Plantation (Pvt) Ltd., Sri Lanka, and analyzed at the State Timber Corporation, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka. Anatomical features were examined using a trinocular microscope and a handheld digital microscope, with measurements obtained through Micrometrics SE Premium 4 Software. Mechanical properties were tested using a universal testing machine. Results showed that both species exhibit fine wood texture, with G. walla having a lower density (435 kg/m³) compared to A. crassna (512 kg/m³) at 12% moisture content. The mean vessel diameters of A. crassna (70.63 μm) and G. walla (68.95 μm) showed no significant difference (p = 0.642), indicating comparable vessel sizes between the two species. Despite their low durability, both species are recommended for light construction purposes with preservative treatments, consistent with their current applications in picture frames, agricultural tools, toys, blackboards, and firewood. Main purpose of this study compares the anatomical and mechanical properties of Aquilaria crassna and Gyrinops walla, showing that both species have fine wood texture and low density, making them suitable for light construction and various products when treated for preservation.