Authors:
Sekouna DIATTA, Mame Aminata Diop FOFANA, Amy BAKHOUM, Eric KALY, Oumar SARR, Moustapha
Bassimbe SAGNA, Daouda NGOM and Aliou GUISSE ,Senegal
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Abstract:
In the Sahelian zone, particularly in the pastoral zone, woody fodder occupies an important place
in the life of the populations. Livestock, the main economic activity, is extensive. For much of
the year (dry season), it relies on woody fodder. A good knowledge of these forage woody plants
in all their aspects, namely ecology, nutritional quality, regeneration potential, is necessary for
the mastery of this sector. Maerua crassifolia Forks is one of these forage species found in
northern Ferlo in Senegal. A vegetation survey was made with 32 plots, each of them having an
area of 2500 m² (50 m x 50 m). Maerua crassifolia being rare in the area, the choice of plots was
guided by its presence. Whenever an individual of this species is encountered, it forms the center
of a plot. Dendrometric and phytosociological parameters are measured. The results show that
the actual density of Maerua crassifolia (4 individuals.ha-1), compared to that of the woody stand
(79 individuals.ha-1), is very low in this area. Its population has a shrub structure with a very low
regeneration rate (0.32%). Maerua crassifolia is accompanied by 4 species: Boscia senegalensis,
Balanites aegyptiaca, Acacia raddiana and Adenium obesum. Boscia senegalensis is by far the
most common species next to Maerua crassifolia based on the frequency of occurrence analysis.
With above results, Maerua crassifolia should be subjected to more care in ecosystem
restauration strategies.
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