Characterization of stands and evaluation of carbon sequestration capacity of shea parklands (Vitellaria paradoxa C. F. Gaertn., Sapotaceae) in the departments of Dabakala and Kong, Ivory Coast

This study aimed to characterize shea tree stands and assess the contribution of shea parklands to carbon sequestration in the Dabakala (north-central) and Kong (northeast) areas of Ivory Coast. It focused on 182 and 211 shea trees identified in each of these two areas, respectively. The diameter at 1.30 m above ground, the total height, and the basal area of ​​the shea trees were measured. The spatial distribution pattern and aboveground biomass were calculated. Carbon and carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2) stocks were also assessed. The results revealed higher dendrometric parameter values ​​in Kong than in Dabakala. The average values ​​of densities, basal areas, diameters and heights were 15.52 and 57.18 individuals.ha-1; 1.16 ± 0.00 and 5.30 ± 0.02 m². ha-1; 0.29 ± 0.10 and 0.33 ± 0.10 m and 8.90 ± 1.82 and 9.97 ± 1.53 m, respectively, at Dabakala and Kong. At Dabakala, the stored carbon and sequestered CO2 equivalent were 0.66 ± 0.00 tC/ha and 2.42 ± 0.01 tCO2/ha, compared to 3.17 ± 0.01 tC/ha and 11.63 ± 0.02 tCO2/ha at Kong. However, the parks were characterized by the same aggregate distribution. Furthermore, the carbon sequestration potential varies along the phytogeographic gradient, from the centre to the north of the country. The knowledge gained from studies on these parks justifies strengthening the woody potential of ecosystems through planting or the practice of agroforestrys.