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| Dr. Achille Assogbadjo |
| University of Abomey-Calavi, Benin |
| Baobab-elephant relationships in the Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari in Benin (West Africa): assessment and implication for the species conservation |
| Location: Benin |
| Species: Elephants |
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| Abstract: In the Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari (BRP) in Benin, the impacts of elephants, in combination with fire are the main threats on the African baobab individuals and populations. The main objective of the present study is to assess the impact of elephants on the population demography and the structure of African baobab in the Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari. Specifically, the study aims at (i) assessing the degree of elephant utilization of the baobabs, (ii) assessing the distribution patterns and structure of the baobab populations in the BRP; (iii) identifying the areas accessible or not to the elephants in the BRP; (iv) quantifying and assessing the aerial extent of baobab refugia where elephant access is restricted in the BRP. If there is a lack of recruitment and if this is due to elephants, the present project would give support to the new management strategy in discussion by the BRP's authority. |
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