Conservation status and phenotypic diversity of natural populations of Vitex doniana sweet in southern Benin assessed using quantitative morphometric traits

Abstract

Vitex doniana is an important but endangered multipurpose wild fruit tree species well known in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Benin. The present study assessed its current conservation status and morphological diversity within its natural populations in Benin. The study was conducted in 28 villages well distributed in 5 districts in southern Benin. The in-situ conservation status was assessed through direct field observations and transect walks. A total of 125 randomly selected trees were characterized using 13 quantitative morphological descriptors. Our results showed high morphological variability among trees based on the traits such as trunk circumference, crown attributes and diameter of leaf petiole. Positively significant correlations were found between most dendrometric parameters and leaf and fruit-related traits. The cluster analysis classified natural populations into three phenotypic groups, with the Cluster 2 encompassing the best accessions showing the greatest height, trunk diameter and the largest crown but with leaves moderate in size. However, the transect analysis performed revealed highly fragmented natural populations due to intense human activities. Therefore, awareness needs to be raised to protect this species and there is also an urgent need to develop domestication, breeding schemes and in-situ conservation programs dedicated to this species.