In the vast, sun-scorched pastures of West Africa, two unassuming trees stand as linchpins of the region’s livestock economy. Cordyla pinnata and Boscia senegalensis, known locally as “soump” and “néré” respectively, provide vital fodder for livestock, underpinning the livelihoods of millions. Yet, these species face an uncertain future as climate change reshapes the landscape. New research, led by Idrissa Sawadogo of the West African Science Service Centre on Climate Change and Adapted Land Use (WASCAL) and the University Félix Houphouet-Boigny, sheds light on the shifting geographic distribution of these crucial trees, offering insights that could steer conservation efforts and agricultural planning.
Published in the journal “Trees, Forests and People” (which translates to “Arbres, Forêts et Peuples” in French), the study employed advanced modeling techniques to predict how changing climatic conditions will affect the habitat suitability of C. pinnata and B. senegalensis in Burkina Faso. Using presence data and 19 bioclimatic variables, the team projected future distributions under two climate models and two socio-economic scenarios, spanning the years 2070 and 2100.
The findings reveal a complex picture. “Precipitation of the wettest and coldest quarters, along with the minimum temperature of the coldest month, are key factors influencing the habitat suitability of these species,” explains Sawadogo. Currently, only 8.14% and 33.36% of Burkina Faso’s land area are suitable for the conservation of C. pinnata and B. senegalensis, respectively. However, under future climatic projections, suitable habitats for these species are expected to expand by 40% by the horizons 2070 and 2100, regardless of the climate model and scenario used.
Yet, the news is not entirely positive. While some areas may become more suitable, others currently supporting these trees could become inhospitable. This shift underscores the need for proactive conservation strategies. “Promoting domestication and implementing habitat protection measures are strongly recommended for their long-term preservation,” Sawadogo emphasizes.
The implications of this research extend beyond conservation. For the energy sector, particularly bioenergy, these trees are valuable resources. Boscia senegalensis, for instance, produces a fruit used to make a popular soft drink in West Africa, while both species contribute to the region’s bioenergy potential. Understanding their future distribution can help stakeholders plan for sustainable harvesting and cultivation, ensuring a steady supply of these valuable resources.
Moreover, the study highlights the importance of adaptive management in the face of climate change. As suitable habitats shift, so too must conservation efforts and agricultural practices. This research provides a crucial foundation for these adaptations, offering a roadmap for securing the future of these vital trees and the livelihoods they support.
In a world grappling with the impacts of climate change, studies like this one are invaluable. They not only deepen our understanding of how species will respond to a changing climate but also guide efforts to mitigate these impacts. As Sawadogo’s work shows, the future of West Africa’s grazing landscapes hinges on our ability to adapt and innovate, ensuring that these vital resources continue to support the region’s people and economies.