Contribution to the Management of Genetic Resources of a Vulnerable Species in Agroforestry Parks in Northern Côte d’Ivoire: The Baobab ( Adansonia digitata L.)

Abstract

This study aims to generate data on the genetic resources of the baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) in Côte d’Ivoire in order to optimize their local management. Two methodological approaches were used. The first involved conducting a survey of 101 individuals across three departments in northern Côte d’Ivoire: Korhogo, Boundiali, and Ferkessédougou. The questionnaire developed for the survey comprised three sections to assess the conservation status of the species: i) respondent characteristics, ii) knowledge of existing baobab populations in northern Côte d’Ivoire, and iii) uses and economic data related to the baobab. The second approach consisted of characterizing the morphology of mature fruits from 12 baobab trees in Korhogo, using small-scale pomological morphological markers to investigate intraspecific diversity. Survey results revealed that only 10.6% of respondents were aware of any dense baobab populations in the studied areas. Generally, the fruit—particularly its pulp—is the most commonly used part of the baobab in these regions. The pulp sells for 1000 FCFA per kilogram, while ground dried leaves used in sauces sell for 500 FCFA per kilogram. Morphometric analysis showed that, except for fruit polar diameter, the nine other pomological traits discriminated among baobab genotypes. Heavier baobab fruits tended to be longer and wider, with a greater pulp mass and a higher seed count. The correlations between fruit dimensions, fruit weight characteristics, pulp content, and the number of seeds contained in the fruit were all positive and greater than +0.6. Trees producing more seeds tended to bear fruits with thicker shells. The correlation value between number of seeds per fruit (NSF) and shell mass (MS) was rNSF/MS = +0.896. In addition to highlighting the baobab’s socio-economic importance, the pomological diversity structure revealed in this study identified three morphogroups that should be considered in conservation and genetic improvement strategies for baobab in Côte d’Ivoire.