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Afzelia quanzensis Welw. Medium to large tree, in open forest and thicket. C.N.: mbange, mukongo, mukongu (kb). Uses: building, medicinal, timber. Conservation: LC (IUCN 2017); VU (Costa et al. 2009, 2019), Published as part of Monteiro, Francisca, Costa, Esperança Da, Kissanga, Raquel, Costa, José Carlos & Catarino, Luís, 2022, An annotated checklist of the vascular flora of Quiçama National Park, Angola, pp. 1-67 in Phytotaxa 557 (1) on page 32, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.557.1.1, http://zenodo.org/record/6985699, {"references":["IUCN. (2017) IUCN Red List of Threatened species. Vers. 3, May 2017. Available from: www. iucnredlist. org (accessed 10 December 2021).","Costa, E., Dombo, A. & Pedro, M. (2009) Plantas Ameacadas em Angola. Centro de Botanica, Universidade Agostinho Neto, Luanda, 154 pp."]}

Aim Angolan Miombo woodlands, rich in timber species of the Leguminosae family, go through one of the highest rates of deforestation in sub‐Saharan Africa. This study presents, on the basis of updated information of the distribution of Leguminosae timber species native to Angola, an integrated index framing the main threats for trees, which aims to support new conservation measures. Location Sub‐Saharan Africa, Republic of Angola. Methods The current distribution areas of six Leguminosae timber species (i.e., Afzelia quanzensis, Brachystegia spiciformis, Guibourtia coleosperma, Isoberlinia angolensis, Julbernardia paniculata, and Pterocarpus angolensis) were predicted through ensemble modeling techniques. The level of threat to each species was analyzed, comparing the species potential distribution with a threat index map and with the protected areas. The threat index of anthropogenic and climatic factors encompasses the effects of population density, agriculture, proximity to roads, loss of tree cover, overexploitation, trends in wildfires, and predicted changes in temperature and precipitation. Results Our results revealed that about 0.5% of Angola's area is classified as of “Very high” threat, 23.9% as “High” threat, and 66.5% as “Moderate” threat. Three of the studied species require special conservation efforts, namely B. spiciformis and I. angolensis, which have a large fraction of predicted distribution in areas of high threat, and G. coleosperma since it has a restricted distribution area and is one of the most valuable species in international markets. The priority areas for the conservation of Leguminosae timber species were found in Benguela and Huíla. Main conclusions This study provides updated data that should be applied to inform policymakers, contributing to national conservation planning and protection of native flora in Angola. Moreover, it presents a methodological approach for the predictions of species distribution and for the creation of a threat index map that can be applied in other poorly surveyed tropical regions., This study presents an integrated index framing the main threats for timber trees native to Angola. The current distribution areas of six Leguminosae species were predicted through ensemble modeling techniques and the level of threat to each species was analyzed, comparing the species potential distribution with a threat index map and with the national network of protected areas. We provide updated data to support the national conservation planning of native flora in Angola, and we develop a methodological approach that can be applied in other poorly surveyed tropical regions.

Premise: Few studies have addressed the evolutionary history of tree species from African savannahs. Afzelia contains economically important timber species, including two species widely distributed in African savannahs: A. africana in the Sudanian region and A. quanzensis in the Zambezian region. We aimed to infer whether these species underwent range fragmentation and/or demographic changes, possibly reflecting how savannahs responded to Quaternary climate changes. Methods: We characterized the genetic diversity and structure of these species across their distribution ranges using nuclear microsatellites (SSRs) and genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) markers. Six SSR loci were genotyped in 241 A. africana and 113 A. quanzensis individuals, while 2800 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in 30 A. africana individuals. Results: Both species appeared to be mainly outcrossing. The kinship between individuals decayed with the logarithm of the distance at similar rates across species and markers, leading to relatively small Sp statistics (0.0056 for SSR and 0.0054 for SNP in A. africana, 0.0075 for SSR in A. quanzensis). The patterns were consistent with isolation by distance expectations in the absence of large-scale geographic gradients. Bayesian clustering of SSR genotypes did not detect genetic clusters within species. In contrast, SNP data resolved intraspecific genetic clusters in A. africana, illustrating the higher resolving power of GBS. However, these clusters revealed low levels of differentiation and no clear geographical entities, so that they were interpreted as resulting from the isolation by distance pattern rather than from past population fragmentation. Conclusions: These results suggest that populations have remained connected throughout the large, continuous savannah landscapes. The absence of clear phylogeographic discontinuities, also found in a few other African savannah trees, indicates that their distribution ranges have not been significantly fragmented during the climatic oscillations of the Pleistocene, in contrast to patterns commonly found in African rainforest trees., SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Ethnopharmalogical relevance In Africa, traditional medicine is important for local healthcare and plants used for these purposes are commonly traded. Identifying medicinal plants sold on markets is challenging, as leaves, barks and roots are often fragmented or powdered. Vernacular names are often homonymic, and identification of material lacking sufficient morphological characters is time-consuming, season-dependent and might lead to incorrect assessments of commercialised species diversity. Aim of the study In this study, we identified cases of vernacular heterogeneity of medicinal plants using a tiered approach of literature research, morphology and DNA barcoding. Material and methods A total of 870 single ingredient medicinal plant samples corresponding to 452 local names were purchased from herbal markets in Dar-es-Salaam and Tanga, Tanzania, and identified using conventional methods as well as DNA barcoding using rbcL, matK and nrITS. Results Using conventional methods, we could identify 70% of samples to at least family level, while 62% yielded a DNA barcode for at least one of the three markers. Combining conventional methods and DNA barcoding, 76% of the samples could be identified to species level, revealing a diversity of at least 175 species in 65 plant families. Analysis of the market samples revealed 80 cases of multilingualism and over- and under-differentiation. Afzelia quanzensis Welw., Zanthoxylum spp., Allophylus spp. and Albizia anthelmintica Brongn. were the most evident cases of multilingualism and over-differentiation, as they were traded under 8–12 vernacular names in up to five local languages. The most obvious case of under-differentiation was mwingajini (Swahili), which matched to eight scientific species in five different plant families. Conclusions Use of a tiered approach increases the identification success of medicinal plants sold in local market and corroborates findings that DNA barcoding can elucidate the identity of material that is unidentifiable based on morphology and literature as well as verify or disqualify these identifications. Results of this study can be used as a basis for quantitative market surveys of fragmented herbal medicine and to investigate conservation issues associated with this trade.

Few studies have addressed the evolutionary history of tree species from African savannahs at large geographic scales, particularly in the southern hemisphere (Zambezian region).Afzelia(Fabaceae: Caesalpinioideae) contains economically important timber species, including two species widely distributed in African savannahs:A. africanain the Sudanian region andA. quanzensisin the Zambezian region. To characterize the population genetic diversity and structure of these two species across their distribution ranges, we used nuclear microsatellites (simple sequence repeats, SSRs) and genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) markers. Six SSR loci were genotyped in 241A. africanaand 113A. quanzensisindividuals, while 2,800 and 3,841 high-quality single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in 30A. africanaand 12A. quanzensisindividuals, respectively. Both species appeared to be outcrossing (selfing rate ~ 0%). The spatial genetic structure was consistent with isolation-by-distance expectations based on both SSR and SNP data, suggesting that gene dispersal is spatially restricted in both species (bLd (SSR)= −0.005and −0.007andbLd (SNP)= −0.008and −0.006 forA. africanaandA. quanzensis, respectively). Bayesian clustering of SSR genotypes failed to identify genetic structure within species. In contrast, SNP data resolved intraspecific genetic clusters in both species, illustrating the higher resolving power of GBS at shallow levels of divergence. However, the clusters identified by SNPs revealed low levels of differentiation and no clear geographical entities. These results suggest that, although gene flow has been restricted over short distances in both species, populations have remained connected throughout the large, continuous Savannah landscapes. The absence of clear phylogeographic discontinuities, also found in a few other African savannah trees, indicates that their distribution ranges have not been significantly fragmented during past climate changes, in contrast to patterns commonly found in African rainforest trees.

Mozambican forests are exposed to risks that contribute to the loss of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services. Thus, ex situ conservation represents a key strategy to reduce genetic erosion. In this study, we evaluated the ecological status of the ex situ conservation plantation in Michafutene, Maputo province, one of the most important repositories of forest genetic resources in the country. Thirty plots were established in which all trees, shrubs and grass species were identified. A total of 2092 individuals spanning 39 species were scored. Afzelia quanzensis was the most important species (Importance Value Index – IVI = 203), but with a low silvicultural performance. Other important trees were Albizia adianthifolia (IVI = 32), Albizia versicolor (IVI = 16) and Pterocarpus angolensis (IVI = 12). A complementary genotyping analysis of A. quanzensis was conducted by intersimple sequence repeats, indicating that the germplasm collection has different provenances and represents a wide genetic pool. Thus, despite the poor management, there is a considerable potential for the conservation of A. quanzensis provided immediate and appropriate management activities are implemented to improve its ecological performance. Resume Mozambican forests are exposed to risks that contribute to the loss of biodiversity and associated ecosystem services. Thus, ex situ conservation represents a key strategy to reduce genetic erosion. In this study, we evaluated the ecological status of the ex situ conservation plantation in Michafutene, Maputo province, one of the most important repositories of forest genetic resources in the country. Thirty plots were established in which all trees, shrubs and grass species were identified. A total of 2092 individuals spanning 39 species were scored. Afzelia quanzensis was the most important species (Importance Value Index – IVI = 203), but with a low silvicultural performance. Other important trees were Albizia adianthifolia (IVI = 32), Albizia versicolor (IVI = 16) and Pterocarpus angolensis (IVI = 12). A complementary genotyping analysis of A. quanzensis was conducted by Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats, indicating that the germplasm collection has different provenances and represents a wide genetic pool. Thus, despite the poor management there is a considerable potential for the conservation of A. quanzensis provided immediate and appropriate management activities are implemented to improve its ecological performance. Les forets mozambicaines sont exposees a des risques qui peuvent contribuer a la perte de leur biodiversite et des services ecosystemiques qui y sont associes. La conservation ex situ constitue donc une strategie cle pour reduire cette erosion genetique. Dans cette etude, nous avons evalue le statut ecologique de la plantation ex situ de Michafutene, dans la province de Maputo, qui compte parmi les plus importants depositaires des ressources genetiques forestieres du pays. Trente parcelles ont ete etablies, ou toutes les especes d'arbres, arbustes et herbes ont ete identifiees. Au total, 2092 individus appartenant a 39 especes ont ete denombres. L'espece la plus importante etait Afzelia quanzensis (Indice de valeur d'importance – IVI = 32), mais avec une faible performance sylvicole. Parmi les autres arbres importants, citons Albizia adianthifolia (IVI = 32), Albizia versicolor (IVI = 16) et Pterocarpus angolensis (IVI = 12). Une analyse genotypique complementaire d’A. quanzensis a ete realisee au niveau des microsatellites (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats – ISSR), qui indique que la collection de germoplasmes vient de differentes provenances et represente un large pool genetique. Donc, malgre une gestion mediocre, la conservation d’A. quanzensis garde un potentiel considerable pour autant que des activites de gestion appropriees soient realisees immediatement pour en ameliorer les performances ecologiques. .

Ethnopharmacological relevance This study is one of the first post-civil war efforts to document traditional botanical knowledge in Bie province, central Angola, in a first step to bring more studies on the use of medicinal plant resources in this area so as to bring new insights into Angolan bio-cultural diversity. Aim of the study Examine the variety of plant species used for medical purposes, as well as characterize their social and cultural values. Also, it is aimed to compare their uses in the studied region with those in Sub-Saharan Africa and report new ethnomedicinal uses. Materials and methods We documented traditional medicinal plant knowledge among professional herbalists in two areas in Bie province through participatory observation, semi-structured interviews and transect walks. Ethnobotanical information was quantified based on Use Reports to (1) rate traditional knowledge; and (2) determine most useful taxa. Results In total, 10 traditional healers shared information on their knowledge. A total of 87 plant species distributed among 57 genera and 36 botanical families were documented with Fabaceae being the best-represented family with 18 species, followed by Phyllanthaceae (6), Apocynaceae (5), Asteraceae (5), Rubiaceae (5), Lamiaceae (4), and Ochnaceae (3). Most medicinal plants are usually gathered at a distance from human settlements because of the belief in the higher efficacy of ‘wild’ plants shared by all herbalists. Roots are the most common plant part used (79%), explaining why the consulted herbalists call themselves ‘root doctors’. Conclusions The culturally most important medicinal species identified in this study, i.e. Securidaca longepedunculata, Garcinia huillensis, Annona stenophylla, Afzelia quanzensis and Strychnos cocculoides, were previously reported for the same use in neighbouring countries and elsewhere in Africa. Our study also indicates that there are several locally valuable species that have not yet been studied for their medical potential, to name a few: Alvesia rosmarinifolia, Diplorhynchus condylocarpon, Eriosema affine, Paropsia brazzaeana, Rhus squalida, Sclerocroton cornutus or Xylopia tomentosa. Moreover, the ethnomedicinal use of 26 species was reported for the first time to sub-Saharan Africa. Classification Ethnopharmacological field studies.

Mozambique is composed by the following forest types: Miombo, Mopane, Mecrusse, and Mangrove. Data on basic wood density at different height levels, tree component dry-mass, and other dendrometric parameters (root collar diameter, diameter at breast height, crown height, crown diameter, live crown length, and stem volume) for eight species typical of Miombo (Afzelia quanzensis Welw., Millettia stuhlmannii Taub., Pterocarpus angolensis DC., Brachystegia spiciformis Benth., and Julbernardia globiflora (Benth.) Troupin), Mopane (Colophospermum mopane Kirk ex J. Léonard), Mecrusse (Androstachys johnsonii Prain), and Mangrove (Avicennia marina (Forssk.)) forests collected from five provinces (Maputo, Gaza, Inhambane, Sofala, and Manica) of Mozambique are presented in this article. Biomass data of Miombo, Mecrusse, and Mopane woodlands were collected destructively, whereas those of Mangrove forests were collected using non-destructive methods. Keywords: Mozambique's forest ecosystems, Tree and forest biomass, Miombo, Mopane, Mecrusse, Mangrove

Understanding patterns of genetic diversity of plants is important in guiding conservation programs. The aim of our study was to characterize genetic diversity in Afzelia quanzensis, an economically important African tree species. We genotyped 192 individuals at 10 nuclear microsatellite loci. Samples were collected from nine sites in Zimbabwe, five in the north and four in the south, separated by a mountain range, the Kalahari-Zimbabwe axis. Overall, genetic diversity was relatively low across all sites (expected heterozygosity (H E) = 0.452, mean number of alleles (A) = 4.367, allelic richness (A R) = 2.917, effective number of alleles (A E) = 2.208, and private allelic richness (PAR) = 0.197). Genetic diversity estimates, H E, A, A R, and PAR, were not significantly different between northern and southern sites. Allelic richness was significantly higher in southern sites. Significant population differentiation was observed among all sites (F ST = 0.0936, G′ ST = 0.1982, G ST = 0.1001, D JOST = 0.0598). STRUCTURE analysis and principal components analysis identified two gene pools, one predominantly made up of southern individuals, and the other of northern individuals. A Monmonier’s function detected a genetic barrier that coincided with the Kalahari-Zimbabwe axis. The relatively low level of genetic diversity in A. quanzensis may reduce adaptability and limit future evolutionary responses. All sites should be monitored for deleterious effects of low genetic diversity, and genetic resource management should take into consideration the existence of the distinct gene pools to capture the entire extant genetic variation.

In the present study, Afzelia quanzensis bark extract was tested for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Based on UV–Vis spectrum analysis, the characteristic absorption band was observed at 427 nm. Furthermore, the size and shape of the nanoparticles ranged from 10 to 80 nm and were spherical in shape as observed through SEM analysis. In addition, the X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the silver nanoparticles are crystalline in nature and have a face-centred cubic structure. Based on FTIR analysis, the presence of phytochemical functional groups such as carboxyl (–C=O) and amine (N–H) in Afzelia quanzensis bark extract further confirmed the responsible reducing agents for nanoparticles formation. Interestingly, the synthesized silver nanoparticles at 50 mg/L concentration showed significant antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.

Development of stem volume for umbrella-shaped crown trees remains a big challenge for efficient use of forest resources in Mozambique. In this study, species-specific stem volume equations were developed for the first time for three of the most important timber species in Mozambique: Afzelia quanzensis Welw. (Chanfuta), Millettia stuhlmannii Taub. (Jambire), and Pterocarpus angolensis D.C. (Umbila). The study was carried out at three locations in Mozambique: Inhaminga, Mavume, and Tome covering 58 trees from which, 24 of Chanfuta, 15 of Jambire, and 19 of Umbila. The volume of the sampled stem sections (logs) was calculated using Smalian’s formula, where stem volume total was obtained through the sum of the respective defined sections. Using a nonlinear procedure, different volume models were tested for each tree species independently. The coefficient of the determination of the tested equations in the tree species ranged from .90 to .95, making the equations potential candidate models for the stem volum...

The efficient utilization of fuelwood as a source of energy is strongly dependent on the properties of the biomass. This study characterizes common hardwood species from Mozambique and evaluates their quality as a fuel. Disc samples, taken at breast height, from Afzelia quanzensis Welwn, Millettia stuhlmannii Taub, Pterocarpus angolensis DC, Sterculia appendiculata K. Schum, Pericopsis angolensis Meeuwen, Acacia nigrescens Oliv., Pseudolachostylis maprounaefolia Pax, and Icuria dunensis Wieringa, were collected from three provinces in Mozambique. Chemical and physical properties were analyzed. The raking of the species as fuel was performed using fuelwood value index. The higher heating value varied between 19.38 and 21.50 MJ/kg dry weight. The concentration of lignin ranged from 21.96 up to 36.69% weight dry basis (wt% d.b.), and ash free. All studied species showed very low concentrations of Si, S, and Cl. Ash content varied between 0.76–3.71 wt% (d.b.), while the basic density ranged from 536 to 1,111 ...

Climate change is affecting the distribution of species globally. Predicting the distribution of species under climate change is important for conservation of biodiversity. The aim of this research was to model the current distribution of miombo woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa using seventeen miombo tree species, and to project their distributions under different climate change scenarios. A maximum entropy method, Maxent, was used to model the distributions of the seventeen representative tree species, Albizia antunesiana, Afzelia quanzensis , Baikiaea plurijuga , Brachystegia bakeriana, Brachystegia boehmii, Brachystegia longifolia, Brachystegia microphylla, Brachystegia spiciformis, Brachystegia utilis, Cryptosepalum exfoliatum, Guibourtia coleosperma, Isoberlinia angolensis , Julbernadia globiflora , Julbernadia paniculata , Pericopsis angolensis Pterocarpus angolensis , and Pterocarpus rotundifolius . A total of 3 429 occurrence records, nineteen bioclimatic variables, monthly precipitation, minimum and maximum temperatures, soil characteristics and altitude were used in modeling. Distributions were hindcasted to the Mid-Holocene and forecasted to 2050 and 2070 under all four Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs). Hindcasting showed that ranges for A. antunesiana , B. bakeriana , B. boehmii , C. exfoliatum , G. coleosperma and Pterocarpus angolensis were larger in the Mid-Holocene than they are currently, while the ranges of the other species were constricted during this period. When forecasted, range contraction was observed for nine species, A. quanzensis , A. antunesiana , B. microphylla , B. spiciformis , B utilis , C. exfoliatum , J. globiflora , Pericopsis angolensis and P. rotundifolius . Range expansion was observed in the other eight species. Range contraction was acute in 2070 under RCP8.5 for A. quanzensis (-13%), A. antunesiana (-15%) and B. microphylla (-14%). Species whose forecasted ranges contracted should be prioritized for mitigation against climate change. All species should be protected from anthropogenic threats since most are unsustainably harvested.

Premise of the study: Microsatellite loci were developed for Afzelia quanzensis (Fabaceae) as a first step toward investigating genetic diversity and population structure of the species in its native range. Methods and Results: Illumina shotgun sequencing was used to generate raw sequence reads, which were searched for potential microsatellite loci. A total of 70 potential microsatellite loci were tested for amplification and polymorphism, and 39 successfully amplified. Of the 39 loci that amplified, 12 were polymorphic while 27 were monomorphic. The 12 polymorphic loci were cross-amplified in A. africana, and eight successfully amplified. Conclusions: The 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci can be used for genetic studies of A. quanzensis, which can help determine its conservation status. Eight loci can also be used for genotyping in A. africana.

The main objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition of some lesser used Mozambican native wood species, such as Acacia nigrescens Oliv., Icuria dunensis Wieringa, Pseudolachnostylis maprounaefolia Pax and Sterculia appendiculata K. Schum. Another aim was to compare these species with traditionally used species, namely, Afzelia quanzensis Welwn, Milletia stuhlmannii Taub, Pericopsis angolensis Meeuwen and Pterocarpus angolensis DC. Wood samples for analysis were taken from sapwood, outer and inner heartwood. All chemical analyses were performed according to standard methods. The contents of carbohydrates, extractives and ash were in ranges considered normal for tropical species. The contents of lignin and minerals were unexpectedly high in Pseudolachnostylis (ntholo), reaching 37.51% and 2.2% (wt% extractive-free) on a dry basis, respectively. Based on the determined chemical features, it was concluded that Acacia and Pseudolachnostylis were similar to well-known species, wh...

The logging of tree species of high commercial value is increasing throughout the African continent, yet the ecology of these species is generally poorly known. We studied the regeneration pattern and size class distribution of Afzelia quanzensis populations in northern South Africa over a 5-year period. Recruitment was low as the annual seedling mortality was >65%. Seedlings were located under the canopy and were affected by drought and browsing. The adults were scattered or were in a clump-dispersed pattern, which would result in higher recruitment of offspring near parents. Individuals of 0-10 cm diameter at breast height (DBH) were few, while there were 32 trees ha⁻¹ at >10 cm DBH with an annual mortality of 0.8%. Annual diameter increments varied between 0.06 and 0.28 cm. It appears that the transition from the sapling into the juvenile stage could be a bottleneck in the regeneration of the species. A longer study, including more rainfall cycles, may reveal other patterns as dry and wet years have different impacts on dynamics.

Woodcarving is an important informal sector industry that is heavily dependent on tourism and yet sustains the livelihoods of many migrant communities in South Africa. In the Cape Town area, the trade appears to be dominated by sellers from neighbouring countries, including Zimbabwe, Malawi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The most traded wood species are Dalbergia melanoxylon (African ebony), Brachylaena huillensis (silver oak or muhuhu) and Afzelia quanzensis (pod mahogany). This study found that the average gross income from the trade was R6450 and R2692 per month in the tourism peak and off seasons, respectively. However, while the woodcarving industry provides an important source of informal employment, it has contributed to the scarcity of highly prized hardwood species, especially in impoverished, underdeveloped areas.

Mozambique is a country with vast forestry resources that include native wood species with high commercial value. Thus, the trade of timber as raw material, as well as wooden finished products are commercial options of considerable valuable for the country. This work presents information about anatomical characteristics, physical and mechanical properties and use of some native wood species from Mozambique, namely, Afzelia quanzensis, Androstachys johnsonii, Erytrophleoum suaveolens, Khaya nyasica, Pterocarpus angolensis, Milletia stuhlmannii and the emerging lesser-known species Pericopsis angolensis, Sterculia appendiculata and Sterculia quinqueloba. The study concludes that these Mozambican wood species are similar in several aspects. They are generally described as very hard, dense, having high mechanical strength and durable. The study also concludes that although the lesser-known wood species, S. quinqueloba, has similar properties to the traditionally used one, A. quanzensis, it is less used because of its poorly known properties and potential uses. Thus, further research to determine the properties and suitable end uses of other lesser know species is likely to be beneficial to the country.

This paper reports on action research that evaluated local perceptions and knowledge of indigenous tree planting and management in the Romwe catchment, Chivi District, southern Zimbabwe. The species tested were the overexploited Afzelia quanzensis, important for timber and carvings of sculptures and utensils; Sclerocarya birrea, the marula tree used for wood, bark, and fruit; and Brachystegia glaucescens, the dominant miombo tree species, used for firewood, fiber, and fodder. Participants volunteered to plant and manage the test seeds, while a research team monitored their activities and results for 26 months. For Afzelia quanzensis, the germination rate was 81%, and 69% of the seedlings were still alive after one year. In the case of Sclerocarya birrea, the germination rate was 69%, and the one-year survival rate was 50%. For Brachystegia glaucescens, the germination rate was only 30%, and the survival rate was 31%. The main reasons for planting were to provide shade, to serve as a windbreak, and to conserve and gain individual control over dwindling natural resources, particularly Afzelia quanzensis. Women were generally more active and innovative than men. For instance, they searched for their own seeds or seedlings in the bush when there weren’t sufficient plants. Some participants tried out various indigenous methods of pest and disease control, water conservation, and moisture retention. Group feedback sessions and informal interactions provided the opportunity to share experiences. The participants learned that indigenous trees can be purposefully planted and were not simply a gift from God. Despite the droughts and political instability of recent years, a growing number of people became involved in tree planting during 2002–2003. As a result, there is now greater awareness among the local population of dwindling resources and their future potential.

The growth and mineral nutrition of seedlings of one provenance of Afzelia quanzensis Welw. from Kenya, inoculated with two ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECM), one isolate of Scleroderma dictyosporum IR.408 and one isolate of Thelephora sp. ORS.XM002 from Burkina Faso and Senegal, respectively, were assessed in a ECM propagules-free soil at a deficient supply of NPK in a pot experiment. Thelephora sp. ORS.XM002 colonized A. quanzensis seedlings better than S. dictyosporum IR.408. Thus, root dry weight of A. quanzensis was stimulated with Thelephora sp. ORS.XM002, but did not improve any significant total biomass production. P, N, Ca and Mg concentrations in inoculated and non-inoculated A. quanzensis seedlings did not vary significantly. The increase of leaf K concentrations in A. quanzensis seedlings due to ECM inoculation with Thelephora sp. ORS.XM002 or S. dictyosporum IR.408 was not related to plant biomass production. However, the height increments of inoculated plants with S. dictyosporum IR.408 may be nutritional effects, but they are not expressed in terms of dry weight. The hypothesis that non-nutritional effects (e.g. hormonal effects) could explain our experimental results (e.g. stimulation of root dry weight) should also be taken into account.

Afzelia quanzensisWelw is a valuable timber producing tree species in Africa. A study was conducted to evaluate the influence of seed size on seed germination and seedlings quality ofAfzelia quanzensis. Seed was categorized into three groups in regard to their length, small (2.5 cm). The treatments were completely randomized into four replications. Germination percentage was not significantly(P>0.05)different between the treatments, although large seeds had the highest germination percentage of 94.9%. There were significant(P<0.05)differences in seedling height and root collar diameter among the different seed sizes, with large seeds having the highest seedlings height and largest root collar diameter. This was attributed to differences in the food reserves. Survival of transplants from shoot dieback was significantly(P<0.05)different such that seedlings from large seed attained the highest survival of 92%. It is therefore recommended that, for production of high quality transplants in the nursery, large seeds should be used.

I examined the fate of seeds from ten focal trees of Afzelia quanzensis (Leguminosae), a canopy tree in the Arabuko-Sokoke, Kenya. The study was conducted for one fruiting season, between August 1990 and July 1991. Yellow baboons (Papio cynocephalus), Syke's monkeys (Cercopithecus albogularis), sun squirrels (Heliosciurus rufobrachium), and bush squirrels (Paraxerus palliatus) were all observed to interact with A. quanzensis seeds at various stages of pod development. Baboons and squirrels consumed high percentages of seeds when they were still immature, but the seeds were still unavailable to Syke's monkeys at this stage. Baboons bit open the hard green pods and squirrels gnawed through the pods to extract the immature seeds (hereafter referred to as seed predation), but monkeys were unable to open the pods. Upon maturity, the pods opened slightly, revealing red arils that were sought by baboons, monkeys, and squirrels. Monkeys removed the highest percentage of mature seeds from these pods. Thes...

Ectomycorrhizal synthesis on seedlings of Afzelia quanzensis was initiated in the greenhouse and in the field using basidiospores or soil inoculum originating from fungi associated with adult trees of A. quanzensis, Brachystegia microphylla, B. spiciformis, and Julbernardia globiflora. Of the spore inocula used, only a Pisolithus sp. associated with adult A. quanzensis formed mycorrhizae. Seedlings raised in contact with all soil inocula formed mycorrhizae; however, the mycorrhizal types formed differed between soil inoculum used in the greenhouse and soil inoculum directly used in the field. A. quanzensis has a low specificity for mycorrhizal association. The concepts of ectomycorrhizal succession are also applicable to African savanna ecosystems.

Sixteen multipurpose tree and shrub species (MPTs) for agroforestry were planted in a screening trial at Chalimbana near Lusaka, Zambia in December 1987. The trial was at 1280 m altitude on a sandy loam belonging to the luvisol-pharzem soil group, under unimodal rainfall (mean 880 mm). One year after planting all the 16 species except Sesbania grandiflora showed excellent survival. Sesbania sesban, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Eucalyptus grandis, Leucaena leucocephala, Cassia siamea, Flemingia congesta and Acacia polyacantha var. compylacantha grew fast with high volume and biomass production. An assessment made 28 months after planting showed these species to be 3.5–6.8 m in height, 8.0–14.3 cm basal diameter, 10–57 m 3 ha −1 standing volume and 19.0–57.7 tons ha −1 above ground biomass (dry weight basis). Sesbania species had short life-spans (1 year for Sesbania macrantha and 2.5 years for Sesbania sesban ) but had outstanding growth and biomass production. This makes them ideal candidate MPTs for improved fallows, enrichment of fodder banks and green manure production. L. leucocephala, Cassia siamea and F. congesta have potential for testing in alley cropping, rotational fallows and other technologies while Acacia polyacantha can be tested in mixed intercropping. Acacia albida, Acacia ataxacantha, Afzelia quanzensis, Sterculia africanum, Albizia adianthifolia, Casuarina cunninghamiana and Ventilago viminalis showed slow growth.

Forests in tropical environments are unstable and hardly maintain fixed climax species composition over long periods. They are victims of modifications by variety of factors including human influences that result in long lasting disturbances. Having observed this, we investigated the population structure and rate of exploitation for three commercial tree species namely, Dalbergia melanoxylon, Pterocarpus angolensis and Afzelia quanzensis in Nguru ya Ndege Forest Reserve. Objectives were to determine the density, DBH distribution and the harvesting rate. We employed simple random procedure to select sampling points, where a map of the reserve was used to divide the study area into 100 equal grids. Fifty grids were then picked randomly, and within these grids, 20 by 20 m quadrats were established for counting stumps and trees with DBH ≥ 4 cm. In addition, saplings with DBH of ≤ 4 cm were counted inside 5 by 5 m quadrats placed within the 20 by 20 m quadrats. Results showed that, the density of P. angolensis was 19 stems/ha, A. quanzensis 8 stems/ha and D. melanoxylon 3.1 stems/ha. DBH graphs showed characteristic inversed J shapes for P. angolensis and A. quanzensis, but broken pattern for D. melanoxylon. Harvesting rates (stumps/ha) was 4.5 for A. quanzensis, 4.0 for P. angolensis and 1 for D. melanoxylon. We concluded that, all target species were found facing harvesting pressure, with the population structure of D. melanoxylon being disturbed. We recommended that harvest of trees in the reserve should be controlled. Keywords: Density, DBH distribution, Illegal harvest, Tropics

Zaraninge Forest, part of the Coastal Forest Biodiversity Hotspot of Tanzania, is threatened by human activities. The effect of such activities on the ecology of the forest is less known. Nested quadrat sampling technique was used along preestablished transect lines. Trees had a stem density of 521 ha-1, the majority falling in Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) size classes 9.5 to 44.9 cm. There was no significant difference in species diversity between sampling areas, which had a Shannon’s diversity index ranging from 1.64 to 2.63. PCA identified two vegetation sample groups with Baphia kirkii, Cynometra webberi, C. brachyrachis, Scorodophloeus fischeri and Tessmannia burttii being abundant in both groups. TWINSPAN revealed three vegetation communities: Community A was fragmented woodlands characterized by the effects of fire and exploitation and having few remaining individuals of the valuable timber trees Afzelia quanzensis and Pterocarpus angolensis; community B was growing in a moist ecologically rich habitat and included rare species (Inhambanella henriquesii), endemic species (T. burttii, C. brachyrachis and S. fischeri); and community C had dry habitats dominated by C. webberi and C. brachyrachis. We conclude that habitat characteristics, fire, past and the present exploitation clearly influence the species diversity, distribution and variation in vegetation communities. The results are discussed in context of current and future management plans for this ecologically important forest.Keywords: Coastal Forest of Tanzania, community structure, diversity, forest management

An ethnobotanical survey was conducted between March and September 1997 in the northwestern and southern parts of the Uzungwa Scarp Forest Reserve using strip transects. Altogether 489 plant species from 107 families were recorded, most of them trees (37 %) and shrubs (27 %). Others were lianas, herbs, ferns and parasites. Endemic plants restricted to the Udzungwa Mountains and Eastern Arc endemic plants not restricted to the Udzungwas were present. It was established that local communities around the forest highly depend on the natural forests for forest products. Most human uses were for traditional medicine, fuelwood and building materials. Quality hardwoods Khaya anthotheca, Afzelia quanzensis, Milicia excelsa and Ocotea usambarensis were noted. To reduce the pressure on the natural forest, agroforestry is recommended in the area to meet some of the people's needs for forest products, thereby contributing to the conservation of biodiversity. It is also important to do more intensive surveys in the area and to document the valuable indigenous knowledge of useful plants. .Journal of East African Natural History Vol. 87 (1&2) 1998: pp. 291-318

Basidiocarps of Pisolithus associated with indigenous (Afzelia quanzensis Welw.) and introduced (Pinus caribaea Mor. and Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dehnh.) hosts in the lowland forests of the Coast Province of Kenya are morphologically distinct. Genetic variability among 52 Pisolithus basidiocarps, collected beneath the various host plants, was examined based on sequence polymorphism within the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and intergenic spacer (IGS1) of ribosomal DNA genes. Variability in ITS and IGS1 sequences indicated that the three host-associated morphotypes were genetically different. Consensus trees generated by bootstrap analysis of sequence data of Pisolithus isolates from Australia and Kenya are polyphyletic and strongly suggest that the three different morphotypes/genotypes present in Kenya represent separate biological species. In addition, our data indicate that little genetic exchange occurs in silva between these species.

1. This study investigated the occurrence of shoot mortality and its effects on the development of seedlings of the economically valuable timber tree Afzelia quanzensis under natural conditions in the absence of fire at Lusaka, Zambia. 2. Mean seed germination was 86 and 99% in the laboratory and field, respectively. Seedling emergence occurred 2-4 weeks after planting in the laboratory compared to 3-10 weeks in the field. 3. Seedling mortality during the first year was low (12%), but shoots of 60% of the surviving seedlings died back to ground level, apparently because of water stress. 4. Maximum leaf production was in the middle of the rainy season, but leaf production and shoot growth ceased before it ended. Root growth continued for 2-3 months after cessation of shoot growth. 5. Seedlings whose shoots died back during the first year had much lower shoot and root biomass and fewer leaves at the end of the second growing season than seedlings without shoot die-back.

Ectomycorrhizae were found in root samples of the treesAfzelia quanzensis Welw. andBrachystegia spiciformis Benth. (Caesalpiniaceae), collected in the coastal miombo type woodland 50 km west of Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. Root nodules with a structure resembling that of nitrogen-fixing root nodules of other leguminous plants were observed in theA. quanzensis material. The climate of the locality is rather dry, and strongly seasonal. In the tropics, ectomycorrhizae have previously been found only in humid or rain forest climate zones.