Seeds of Sustainability: Unveiling the Population Dynamics of Carapa procera, Lophira lanceolata, and Pentadesma butyracea for Adaptive Oilseed Value Chains

Abstract

Carapa procera, Lophira lanceolata, and Pentadesma butyracea are important non-timber forest products providing species with promising value chains of their oils. To assess whether traditional uses of these species are sustainable, this study analysed their population structure and regeneration patterns in non-protected sites. Three sites where the fruits of these species are exploited for oilseed production and trade were selected for each species, and 135 plots with 665 subplots were established for adults and regenerations inventories, respectively. The population structure and regeneration patterns were assessed using dendrometric characteristics (tree diameter at breast height—dbh and height), population density, and metrics of stability. C. procera had the highest dendrometric values at Diossogo and Koloko for adult individuals. Its populations were generally stable across all sites. For L. lanceolata, the highest dendrometric values were observed at Natindougou. However, populations at both Natindougou and Nafanasso showed signs of disturbance and instability. For P. butyracea, the highest values for mean diameter and Lorey's height of adult individuals were recorded at Sokouraba. Population densities were highest at Nafanasso, but populations were disturbed at Sokoroni and Sokouraba, with stability observed across all sites. Given the current condition of the stands of each species, implementing management actions tailored to site-specific conditions is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability and productivity of these valuable species in their natural habitats.