Growth and Development Dynamics Among Khaya senegalensis Progenies in Côte d'Ivoire

Mastering nursery production is a critical step for improving the silviculture of Khaya senegalensis , a major commercial forest species in Côte d’Ivoire. However, limited information is available on early-stage variability among progenies and the identification of reliable traits for selection at the nursery stage. This study aimed to analyze growth and developmental variability among six progenies of K. senegalensis in order to identify key morphological traits that can support early selection of superior genotypes. Thirty seeds collected from six mother trees were sown according to genotype using a randomized experimental design. Seedlings were monitored under nursery conditions, and ten agromorphological parameters related to growth and development were measured. The data were analyzed using multivariate statistical approaches, including discriminant analysis, to assess variation among progenies and determine the most informative traits. The results revealed significant variability among the progenies, highlighting the influence of genetic origin on early growth performance. Among the parameters studied, four traits: plant height, leaflet width, number of leaves, and number of internodes were identified as the most discriminant variables, effectively differentiating the progenies. These traits showed strong potential as early indicators of growth vigor and developmental performance. The identification of these key traits provides a practical basis for early selection in nursery conditions, which can enhance the efficiency of seedling production. Ultimately, this approach contributes to the optimization of nursery practices and supports the development of improved silvicultural strategies for K. senegalensis in Côte d’Ivoire.