Morphological diversity of the populations of Balanites aegyptiaca L. Del in the Ferlo River in northern Senegal

Abstract

The objective of this work is to evaluate the morphological variability of the population of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. for a better valorization of its resources in a semi-arid zone of Senegal where the species plays an important role in the daily life of the local populations. The choice of study sites took into account the variability of soils and climates in the area. The morphological characterization of individuals was carried out following a methodological approach using a system of descriptors divided into three groups of parameters (dendrometric, fruit and leaves). The inventoried individuals were of breeding age and at least 100 meters apart. They were distributed in three sites arranged on an increasing rainfall gradient Koyli alpha, Labgar and Ranerou. The results obtained showed the influence of variability linked to environmental conditions on the morphological characteristics of the species. However, a lack of correlation between groups of descriptors (dendrometric, fruit and leaf) was observed. However, the fruit descriptors were more discriminating. They made it possible to identify individuals within the studied population that could be of interest for a varietal selection program given the morphology and mass of the fruits they produce. These individuals could be influenced by climatic determinism, since they are mostly found at the wettest site of the transect. The information obtained from this work could be useful to meet the needs for local valorization of the plant's resources.