Journal of Agroforestry & Envinronment

Journal of Agroforestry and Environment

              GNAGBO Anthelme, EGNANKOU Wadja Mathieu, DRO Bernadin, GODÉ Guy Trésor and ADOU YAO Constant Yves

              DOI: https://doi.org/10.55706/jae1721     

 

Abstract

Teak-based reforestation poses the challenge of sustainable development in terms of meeting economic, social and environmental needs. In order to meet the needs of populations for timber and contain anthropogenic pressures on flora, reforestation based on Tectona grandis is initiated in the Sangoué Classified Forest. Therefore, a diagnostic study is therefore essential to assess the effects of this practice on the environment. This study assessed the consequences of planting Tectona grandis on the conservation and restoration of the Sangoué classified forest. For this, the structural and floristic characteristics of teak stands at different stages of evolution were compared. The results showed that young plots have more plant species, are more diverse and more evenly distributed. Older plots have the highest densities and basal areas of stems, with an inverted J-shaped distribution. Young plots have the lowest densities and basal areas, as well as a more regular horizontal structure. The woody species introduced into reforestation are Tectona grandis, Gmelina arborea and Cedrela odorata. In the 33-year-old block, the total basal area value is 18.07 m² per hectare, then 13.72 m² per hectare in the 30-year-old block. As for the 25- and 28-year-old blocks, the basal area values per hectare are 12.61 m2 and 9.39 m2 respectively. Young plots promote natural regeneration and floristic diversity, while older plots present low floristic diversity with reduced structural balance. Introduced species have benefited more from teak planting than native ones. Teak planting may lead to profit, but it presents challenges for biodiversity. The impact of teak planting on the Sangoué classified forest differs depending on the stage of evolution of the stands. Therefore, it has advantages and disadvantages for forest restoration and conservation. The teak plantation needs to be adjusted to forest management.

Keywords: Plant biodiversity; Conservation; Silviculture; Classified forest. 

Journal of Agroforestry and Environment, 2024, 17(2):80-86