Diversity, structure and socioeconomic importance of agroforestry systems in buffer zones of Bouba Ndjidda National Park, Cameroon

Protected areas in the Sudano-Sahelian zone face increasing threats from human activities. Establishing agroforestry systems in buffer zones is a strategy to mitigate these pressures. This study characterized agroforestry systems surrounding Bouba Ndjidda National Park, assessed tree diversity in agroforestry systems, and evaluated of the use pattern of agroforestry species. Farmers were randomly selected for interviews, and their farms surveyed to document agroforestry practices and woody flora. Four agroforestry systems were identified: agroforestry parklands (48.65%), homegardens (27.03%), fallows (13.51%), and live fences (10.81%). A total of 50 woody plant species, spanning 42 genera and 23 families, were recorded, with Fabaceae being the most dominant family. Senegalia polyacantha had the highest Importance Value Index (88.65). Fallows exhibited the highest biodiversity indices, with significantly greater Shannon (1.15 ± 0.18, P = 0.0103) and Simpson indices (0.64 ± 0.05, P = 0.0003) than live fences. Tree density was highest in live fences (P < 0.05), while tree diameter and height were significantly greater in agroforestry parklands than in fallows (P = 0.0187), homegardens (P = 0.0024), and live fences (P = 0.0003). Tree basal area was largest in live fences (P < 0.05). Woody plant species were primarily used for fuelwood (66.49%) and food (63.69%). Vitellaria paradoxa had the highest Use Value (4.36), while Anacardium occidentale had the highest Cultural Importance Index (1.00). Conservation assessments recorded Eucalyptus camaldulensis (near-threatened) in fallows and parklands, Tectona grandis (endangered) in homegardens, and two vulnerable species, Khaya senegalensis and Vitellaria paradoxa, in agroforestry parklands and homegardens.

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