Ecological characterization of Icacina senegalensis stands in three agroecological zones (Casamance, Groundnut Basin, and Eastern Senegal) of Senegal

The objective of this study was to characterize the ecosystems of the agroecological zones of Casamance, Groundnut Basin and Eastern Senegal. An inventory based on stratified sampling with circular plots of 25 m radius distributed according to land use units was carried out to determine physical and chemical characteristics (texture, pH, salinity) of soil, diversity and structural parameters of the vegetation. The results indicated that floristic composition and diversity varied according to sites and land use. Greater richness was noted in Coubanack (4.57±0.74) and plantation (4.57±0.74). In terms of diversity, the most diverse site and land use were Medina Boguel (0.79±0.12) and tree cover (0.88±0.05). The structural parameters of Icacina senegalensis were higher for shrub cover and plantations. Multivariate analysis highlighted differentiated ecological groups according to sites and land use types. Soil texture, particularly sand content, sites, and land use types influenced vegetation parameters.