Impact of Deforestation on the Expansion of Loranthaceae in Urban Forests: A Case Study of the Urban Area of Daloa, Center-West, Côte d'Ivoire

Abstract

Aims: In Côte d'Ivoire, deforestation of natural formations has favored the expansion of parasitic vascular plants of the Loranthaceae family, also affecting certain trees and shrubs in urban forests. The aim of this study is to identify the Loranthaceae species present in urban areas, assess their level of infestation and contribute to a better understanding of the indirect repercussions of deforestation on their expansion. Methodology: Surveys were carried out along roadsides, in gardens, schools, the university site and undeveloped areas in the commune of Daloa. Results: Two species of Loranthaceae were identified: Phragmanthera capitata and Tapinanthus bangwensis. A total of 35 host species belonging to 27 genera and 19 families were recorded, 82.86% of which were parasitized by T. bangwensis and 25.71% by P. capitata. The most infested families were Mimosaceae (14.29%) and Caesalpiniaceae (11.43%), with Albizia (14.81%) and Ficus (11.11%) as the main hosts. Of these taxa, 31.43% are woody fruit trees. Overall incidence was estimated at 8.50%, with an average intensity of 1.50 clumps/tree. Conclusion: The study underlines that deforestation favors the expansion of Loranthaceae in urban areas, hence the need for ecological management to preserve tree health.