Optimizing agroforestry systems through traditional ecological knowledge: a sustainable model for tree species selection in semi-arid lowland region

Agroforestry systems are crucial for sustainable agriculture, yielding diverse environmental, economic, and cultural benefits. Traditional and local knowledge is paramount in tree species selection, especially in areas lacking access to scientific resources. This study assessed the traditional knowledge and socioeconomic indicators that affect tree species selection in various agroforestry systems of semi-arid lowland regions. Data were collected from 400 respondents using semi-structured interviews, with emphases on growth parameters, ecosystem services, economic contributions, and cultural values. Indicator‐species analysis was applied to assess the relative importance of tree species using respondents’ data. Principal Component Analysis was implemented to determine trends in species selection based on diverse criteria, as well as interrelations between citations and indicator values using regression models. Results highlighted a total of 48 tree species spread across 29 families with Fabaceae having the highest dominancy. Senegalia modesta was the best indicator for tree species selection concerning growth parameters for its preference based on drought tolerance and high adaptability. Ecosystem services ranked Morus nigra and Mangifera indica highly for shade, fodder, and support to biodiversity. For economic contributions, Dalbergia sissoo and Populus alba featured prominently due to their high demand in the market and export rates. Ficus religiosa and Ficus benghalensis were given utmost priority for being sacred and possessing symbolic values. Growth parameters and ecosystem services emerged as the primary traditional indicators used for tree species selection in semi-arid lowland region agroforestry systems. Results indicate that the future of agroforestry practices should lay emphasis on economic indicators such as profitability and export potential, while considering ecological as well as cultural factors to allow for sustainable development. This work highlights the coalescence of traditional knowledge and scientific methods aimed at maximizing the agroforestry system's efficiency, balancing both environmental as well as socio-economic challenges prevalent in semi-arid regions. By bridging traditional wisdom with modern analysis, the research provides take-home messages toward sustainable land use practices.