Assessment of Phenotypic Diversity in Pterocarpus erinaceus for Enhanced Reforestation in Northern Côte d’Ivoire

Abstract

Pterocarpus erinaceus is a species native to Africa, recognized for its high socio-economic potential. However, overexploitation has led to a reduction in its populations and the disappearance of high-performing morphotypes. The high-performance morphotypes that still exist are poorly documented, hence the interest of this study, which aims to identify and characterize them in order to provide plant material suitable for reforestation programmes. The study was conducted in the classified forests of Boundiali and La Palée. Following three (3) prospecting areas, a system of quadrats associated with transects was installed. The data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics, then structured using principal component analysis, followed by ascending hierarchical classification. As a result, 123 morphotypes of interest were identified among the 865 trees listed, representing 14.22%, a relatively low rate. Zone 3 has a higher density of trees of interest than zones 1 and 2, estimated at 6.43 trees of interest per hectare. The trees of interest were grouped into three morphotypes. The first morphotype, composed of young trees, constitutes a genetic reservoir for future reforestation programs. The second morphotype is composed of slender individuals that may possess rare alleles inherited from large trees that have disappeared as a result of illegal logging. The third morphotype, consisting of dominant and mature trees, constitutes a seed bank and contributes to maintaining gene flow between generations. These different morphotypes will provide high-quality plant material and guide reforestation programs for the sustainable management of the species.