Vulnerability of agrosystems to climate change in the surrounding areas of Pendjari National Park of Benin

Understanding the vulnerability of agrosystems to climate change is vital for farmers to adapt effectively. This study evaluates the vulnerability of agrosystems around Pendjari National Park (PNP) to guide effective agricultural systems restoration strategies. Rainfall trends from 1980 to 2021 were analyzed using daily precipitation data from the Tanguieta weather station. A floristic inventory was conducted along the Tanguiéta-Batia and Tanguiéta-Porga corridors using the linear transect method to identify agrosystems based on tree density per hectare. The vulnerability of the most prevalent agrosystems was assessed through surveys of 318 households using individual and semi-structured interviews. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and correspondence analysis on tree and crop distributions using R software. Vulnerability was measured using three indices: exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity. Results showed a general decline in rainfall over the study period, with alternating years of drought and surplus. Nine agrosystems comprising 28 woody species and 8 crop species were identified, predominantly featuring Vitellaria paradoxa and Parkia biglobosa. Both systems are vulnerable to climate change, but V. paradoxa agrosystems (Vulnerability Index = 1.36) are less vulnerable than those of P. biglobosa (Vulnerability Index = 3.27). This study establishes a basis for further research on the food, economic, and agronomic benefits of trees in these agrosystems. It recommends that policymakers and farmers prioritize V. paradoxa agrosystems, promoting policies that support climate adaptation, resilience, and sustainable resource use. Local communities are encouraged to adopt sustainable agricultural practices to ensure long-term food and economic security.