The natural regeneration, demographic and spatial structure of Lophira lanceolata (Ochnaceae) populations in Côte d’Ivoire

The dynamics of particular woody species in the savannah zone of Côte dʼIvoire are strongly influenced by anthropogenic pressure, which compromises their sustainability. One such species is Lophira lanceolata, which has high socio-economic and ecological potential, but has received little research attention. This study aimed to analyse the demographic and spatial structure as well as the regeneration potential of Lophira lanceolata in three agro-ecological zones of the savannah in Côte dʼIvoire. The collected data included individual geographic coordinates, tree density, basal area and regeneration information. The results indicated that Kouassi-NʼDawa (87 ± 17 seedlings/ha) and Patizia (90 ± 19 seedlings/ha) exhibited higher levels of regeneration. The inverted J-shaped structure (decreasing distribution of diameter classes) observed in Kouassi-NʼDawa, and the right-skewed structure (predominance of small-diameter trees) observed in Patizia and Pouniakélé, suggest significant pressure on the populations under study. The spatial distribution pattern of this species varies considerably depending on the observation distance within and between sites. It has been demonstrated that human activities substantially impact the availability of tree resources and the planning of spatial areas. The findings of this study highlight the vulnerability of these resources and emphasise the need for appropriate management measures to be implemented.