Factors of population dynamics of Vitellaria Paradoxa (Karite) in the commune of N'dali in Northeast Benin

Abstract

The shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) is a woody plant species, very useful for the populations of the commune of N'Dali. However, this species suffers from degradation, which jeopardizes its sustainability. The objective of this study is to determine the factors of the population dynamics of Vitellaria paradoxa in the commune of N'Dali. To this end, 340 households in 18 villages were surveyed on their perception of Vitellaria paradoxa dynamics. In addition, 72 square plots (36 in shea parks and 36 in fields) were set up to collect dendrometric data on Vitellaria paradoxa as well as elements relating to the pressure on the species. These data were processed using descriptive statistics methods. The density of woody plants is 25 feet per hectare in the fields and 141.66 feet per hectare in the open forests. The density of shea is 16 feet per hectare in the fields and 19 feet per hectare in the open forest. In general, the Vitellaria paradoxa population is in decline in the commune of N'Dali. The factors of its dynamics are: agriculture, wood exploitation, drought and winds. It is essential to train people in Vitellaria paradoxa based agroforestry.