Search

Local knowledge on temporal indicators in the Guinean zone of Togo Description of the subject. Important changes in cropping seasons caused by a decrease and erratic patterns in rainfall have forced farmers to redefine their agricultural calendars, which are based on local knowledge. Objectives. The objective of this study was to promote local knowledge used in farming schedules. The specific objectives were to identify biophysical indicators used for planning cropping calendars, and to determine the target plant species common to all ecological zones. Method. In total, 689 farmers distributed through 65 localities were surveyed through semi-direct interviews and focus group discussions. Results. All respondent farmers reported relying on temporal markers for defining their cropping calendars, especially the recognition of the onset of the rainy season (sowing period) and rainfall cessation or the dry season (harvesting period). These biological indicators are mainly related to plant phenology, especially flowering (Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq., Spathodea campanulata P.Beauv.) and fruiting (Vitellaria paradoxa C.F.Gaertn.), which are used to indicate the beginning of the dry season. The flowering of Millettia thonningii (Schum. & Thonn.) Baker, V. paradoxa, Delonix regia (Hook.) Raf. and the opening of ripened fruits (Ceiba pentandra [L.] Gaertn.) are used to identify the onset of the rainy season. A total of 67 species were identified as indicators of agricultural seasons. In addition to these plant species, the seasonal migration of birds (73%), and of insects (48%); and some abiotic indicators such as wind direction (100%), star observations (82%) and cloud movement (69%) were reportedly used as landmarks in farming time management. Conclusions. Knowledge about these signals is useful for anticipating possible climate variability based on traditional meteorological forecasting and for guiding local cropping calendars. This local knowledge regarding temporal markers is therefore relevant for agricultural adaptation to climate change.