Relationship between stand regime and population structure of Pseudocedrela kotschyi (Meliaceae) and Terminalia macroptera (Combretaceae) in the Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari (Benin, West Africa)

Abstract

One of the major reasons for reforestation failure using tropical species is misunderstanding of the neighbourhood relationship within tree populations. This study used the natural stand structures of Terminalia macroptera and Pseudocedrela kotschyi, two socio-economically important species, to design planting. A comparative analysis of the population structure of P. kotschyi and T. macroptera in pure and mixed stands was performed. However, results indicated that young T. macroptera individuals were predominant in both stand types. In the same way, no significant difference was found between diameter size classes with respect to stand types. Trees showed weak density and a random pattern with the nearest neighbour distances varying between 5.67 m (pure) and 7.01 m (mixed). P. kotschyi young individuals were also found to be predominant irrespective of stand type; yet, the diameter size class distribution revealed significant variations with respect to stand type. Trees had a higher density and stronger clumped pattern in pure stands as compared to mixed stands. The nearest neighbour distances ranged from 2.97 m (pure) to 4.87 m (mixed). Our findings highlighted the relevance of taking into account relationships between stand composition and tree population structure while designing plantings.