Biochemical and Agromorphological Characteristics of the Kernel of the Sahel Date Palm ( Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del) from Ferlo, Senegal

Abstract

Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del is a multi-purpose tree species of significant socio-economic importance in the Sahelian region. Despite its high value for food, fodder, and medicine, little is known about the biochemical and agromorphometric variability of its kernels. This study aims to characterize the biochemical properties of B. aegyptiaca kernels collected from three communes in the Ferlo region of northern Senegal: Labgar, Dodji, and Doundodji. Nuts were classified into three size categories (small, medium, and large) based on weight and axis measurements. A total of 2250 nuts were analyzed for dry matter, moisture, fat, crude fibre, and organic matter content. The analysis of variance showed no significant effects of provenance or size for most parameters. However, a significant interaction between provenance and size was observed for crude fiber (p = 0.0364). Dry matter and fat content were relatively stable across provenances and sizes, while moisture content showed higher values in large nuts from Doundodji. Crude fibre varied significantly with provenance-size interaction, with small nuts from Doundodji exhibiting the highest values. Correlation analysis revealed a strong negative correlation between fat and crude fiber (r = −0.84, p < 0.01). Principal component analysis confirmed the consistency of the dataset, with over 94% of total variance explained by the first two components. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the biochemical diversity of B. aegyptiaca and may support its sustainable valorization and domestication in arid and semi-arid regions.