Floristic Characteristics, Diversity and Population Structure of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del (Zygophyllaceae) in the Ouadi Rimé-Ouadi Achim Wildlife Reserve in Chad

Abstract

In Chad, the Balanites aegyptiaca is a highly useful species preserved by producers in     agroforestry parks, whose sustainability is under threat. The aim of this study is to assess the ecological health of Balanites aegyptiaca and associated woody vegetation in the Ouadi Rimé-Ouadi Ochim Wildlife Reserve in Chad. Data were collected using floristic surveys based on dendrometric measurements of woody species in 110 plots of 900 m2 each. Dendrometric measurements show a low density of individuals across both sites with almost zero species richness. The structure of the stands in both sites reflects a degraded stand with low regeneration potential. In the park reserve, the structure is characterised by a juvenile population, while the grazing area has low regeneration potential. In the early stages, regeneration is significant but quickly disappears under the combined effect of several mesological factors. The park reserve located in the Sahelian sector is the priority site in terms of repopulation of B. aegyptiaca. These findings suggest the urgent need to develop appropriate strategies for the sustainable management of the species in Chad.