Global Advanced Research Journal of Agricultural Science (GARJAS) ISSN: 2315-5094
September 2017 Vol. 6(9): pp. 261-268
Copyright © 2017 Global Advanced Research Journals

Full Length Research Paper

Genetic resources of Faidherbia albida (DEL.) A. Chev. in the Sudano-Sahelian region of Cameroon

Tchatchoua Dorothy Tchapda^1*, Caspa Roseline Gusua² Oumarou Hamadou¹, Hamawa Yougouda¹ Abib Fanta Chimene³, Froumsia Moksia³

¹Department of Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Derived Products, The Higher Institute of the Sahel, University of Maroua BP. 46 Maroua, Cameroon

²Institute of Agricultural Research for Development (IRAD), Forest and Wood. Program. P.O.Box 2123 Yaounde, Cameroon.

³Faculty of Science. University of Maroua. Maroua Cameroon

Email: d.tchatchoua@yahoo.com

Accepted 09 July, 2017

Abstract

Germplasm is the genetic material that is used for reproduction, selection and creation of variation in breeding programs. An investigation was carried out on the genetic resources or germplasm of Faidherbia albida (DEL.) A. Chev. in the Sudano-Sahelian regions of Cameroon to facilitate its use. Data were collected through literature reviews, formal and informal discussions with local people, non governmental organizations and scientists, as well as from field visit and administration of semi-structured questionnaires to communities around the forest. Genetic resources of Faidherbia albida were found throughout the Northern (Sudanian and Sahelian) regions of Cameroon and observed at different conservation levels: - gene banks, domesticated and natural stands. Majority of respondents (91%) indicated that trees in parklands resulted from natural regeneration and were protected by local communities. The domesticated populations are used by the local communities for agroforestry practices i.e. integrating maize, sorghum, groundnut, cotton and cowpea in rotation during the planting seasons. Loss of genetic resources resulted from both natural factors such as drought or climate change (mentioned as the most important factors) and anthropogenic activities. Destructive harvesting through intensive pruning by cattle rearers (Mbororo) to feed livestock was very common in the Tokombere parklands. Pruning affects seed production and seed establishment which is detrimental to the sustainability of the species. Consequently, there is an urgent need to conserve this important species for the benefit of the rural poor who is highly dependent on it. Conservation activities should be carried out at all levels including the government, scientist, non governmental organizations (NGOs) and village communities and government policy on forest management should be implemented and intensified. 

Keywords: Faidherbia albida, distribution, conservation, domestication, germplasm, management, threats.