Regeneration of Five Combretaceae Species along a Latitudinal Gradient in Sahelo-Sudanian Zone of Burkina Faso

Backgruond

This study examines seedling density and regeneration processes of 5 species of Combretaceae across latitudinal gradients in the Sahelo-Sudanian ecoregion in Burkina Faso. Species were chosen based on their economic importance and large distributions. Rainfall varies across the area studied from 400-900 mm annually with elevations of about 300 m. The vegetation in the area is strongly seasonal with mostly deciduous trees and most herbacious species dying back during the dry season.

Research Goals & Methods

Data was collected during the rainy season along transects at sites in the sampling area and regeneration mechanisms were determined by digging up individuals.

Conclusions & Takeaways

Seedling death could be attributed to climatic factors, predation, fire, and pathogens. In some areas, there were few observed mature individuals to provide a seed source. Latitude had a significant effect on the density of seedlings of different species. Different species also showed differences in the regeneration mechanism. These results show that species choice for reforestation in this region must be done on a site specific basis.