Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Multipurpose forest trees can support complementary biological production systems, providing non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to generate additional income for farmers.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Lac-culture is the commercial rearing of the lac insect (Kerria lacca) to produce natural lac (shellac).
2. Lac insects are phytophagous and require specific host tree species to feed on their sap.
3. The premier host trees for high-quality lac production are:
- Kusum (Schleichera oleosa)
- Palas (Butea monosperma)
- Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana)
4. Integrating these host trees on farms enables farmers to harvest lac alongside timber, forage, and agricultural crops, forming a productive lac-culture agroforestry model.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Palas and Kusum are planted to support Lac-culture in agroforestry.