Forest degradation and invasive species synergistically impactMimusops andongensis(Sapotaceae) in Lama Forest Reserve, Benin

Abstract

AbstractHarvesting of Non‐Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) can threaten target species, especially those with limited distribution and density. Exploited species also face threats from habitat fragmentation, fire, and invasive species. We assessed the impact of human disturbances and invasive species on the population of a key multipurposeNTFPspecies,Mimusops andongensis, in Lama Forest reserve (Benin). The densities of adult trees and regenerative stems decreased with increasing degradation.Mimusops andongensiscontributed less to total tree density with increasing human disturbance. There were significantly fewerM. andongensisrecruits with increasing cover of invasiveChromolaena odorata. Smaller diameter individuals predominated in non‐degraded and moderately degraded sites while in degraded sites, the structure showed a negative exponential trend with the density of small diameter individuals being less than two trees/ha. Larger individuals were also rare in degraded sites. The low density of both mature trees and seedlings in degraded sites may undermine the long‐term viability ofM. andongensis, despite existing protection againstNTFPharvesting and other anthropogenic pressures. Management should emphasize facilitating recruitment subsidies and limiting the presence ofC.odorata.