Diversity of Agroforestry Systems Associated with Vegetable Plots in the Municipality of Thionck-Essyl (Bignona Department, Senegal)

Abstract

In Senegal, as in the sub-Saharan zone, tree and shrub species are generally introduced into the fields and thus constitute an integral part of agricultural, forestry, and pastoral production systems called agroforestry systems. With a view to better management of these systems, this study aimed to contribute to a better understanding of these agrarian systems in Lower Casamance. To this end, surveys of woody vegetation were conducted in seven (07) of the 14 market garden blocks in the commune of Thionck-Essyl. On the basis of a survey rate of 25% in relation to the surface area, 15 square plots of 2500 m2 each were installed. The woody flora of these agroforestry systems included 31 species divided into 25 genera belonging to 14 botanical families. The basal area, the cover rate, and the observed density of woody plants are respectively 6 m2·ha-1; 46% and 67% individuals ha-1. The most frequent species in these agroforestry systems are Elaeis guineensis Jacq. (85%), Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck (71%) and Mangifera indica L. (71%). The dominant height class is [2 - 4 m] with 23% of the woody stand in these agroforestry systems. The horizontal structure is characterized by a good representation of individuals with a diameter between 5 and 15 cm (31%). This study constitutes the basis of information necessary for more rational management of these agrarian systems so important in the life of the populations of the commune of Thionck-Essyl.