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Le bâtonnet frotte-dents est un outil d’hygiène buccodentaire en forme de fragment de matière végétale : tige, brindille, petite branche ou racine. Le but de cette étude était de déterminer la composition phytochimique et la teneur en grandes classes chimiques des tiges les plus utilisées comme bâtonnets frotte-dents chez les Peuls de Widou Thiengoli au Nord Ferlo (Sénégal). Des entretiens ouverts semi-structurés ont permis de recueillir les plantes les plus utilisées. L’indice de fidélité renseigne sur la convergence des usages quant à l’emploi des plantes comme bâtonnets frotte-dents comparé aux autres pratiques cosmétiques répertoriées. L’étude de la composition phytochimique des tiges a ciblé huit classes chimiques : stéroïdes, terpénoïdes, tanins, saponines, anthocyanines, leucoanthocyanidines, coumarines, émodines. Les tanins et les saponines sont très fréquents ; les terpénoïdes et les leucoanthocyanines presque inexistants. Un dosage des flavonoïdes, alcaloïdes et polyphénols, réalisé chez des extraits aqueux, a ensuite été effectué sur 12 plantes (huit familles). Les grandes teneurs en polyphénols et alcaloïdes sont mesurées chez Anogeissus leiocarpus, et la meilleure en flavonoïdes chez Commiphora africana.

Ce travail adhère à l'initiative de valorisation des végétaux conduite par la Grande Muraille Verte (GMV) pour faire face à la disparition des végétaux et des savoir-faire végétaux associés. L’objectif de cette étude est de déterminer la diversité végétale impliquée dans le traitement des pathologies dermatologiques au Ferlo (Sénégal) et d’évaluer l’activité antimicrobienne des plantes les plus utilisées. Pour ce faire, un guide d’entretien semi directif a été soumis aux enquêtés, afin de recueillir la diversité des plantes utilisées au Ferlo dans le traitement des dermatoses. Des tests de micro dilution ont permis d’évaluer la concentration minimale inhibitrice (CMI) d’extraits de Sept (7) plantes contre une souche fongique (Candida albicans) et une bactérienne (Staphyloccocus aureus). Vingt-huit (28) espèces réparties dans 26 genres et 14 familles ont été recensées comme impliquées dans le traitement des affections dermatologiques. L’écorce est la partie la plus exploitée, puis le latex, tandis que, la décoction, suivie de l’usage direct représentent les modes de préparation les plus fréquents. Treize (13) parmi les plantes proposées sont exclusivement utilisées contre les dermatoses, quatre (4) fréquemment exploitées, et onze (11) occasionnellement recommandées. Widou Thiengoli est la localité où l’on exploite le plus d’espèces suivi de Loughere Thiolly. Leptadenia lancifolia (Schumach.& Thonn.) Decne. Stereospermum kunthianum Cham. et Sterculia setigera Delile ont été identifiées comme actives contre Candida albicans avec respectivement des CMI de 1,5 mg/ml pour les deux premières et 0,755 mg/ml pour la troisième. Acacia seyal Delile, Sterculia setigera Delile et Anogeissus leiocarpa (DC) Guill. & Perr. ont détruit Staphylococcus aureus avec respectivement des CMI de 3 mg/ml pour les deux premières et 1,5 mg/ml pour la troisième.

The genus Digitaria Haller is one of the most important of grass flora of Senegal by both its specific richness and the socio-economic value of its species. Despite this importance, no studies have been done specifically on these species. This study aims, therefore, to document the diversity, distribution, ecology and usefulness of the genus of such species for raising public awareness about botanical, ecological distribution, and status of such species and their uses in Senegal. Data collection approach was based on field work conducted in Senegal that has allowed the preparation of distribution maps of species related to ecological factors such as climate, vegetation and soil coupled with a literature review used to determine the use of species. Consequently, literature accessed has revealed that various species of Digitaria exist and they consist mainly of weeds, forage or food crops. Digitaria spp. has a wider distribution with some species having a broader distribution whereas others are restricted to some African regions. They are generally encountered throughout the tropics including in rainforests, savannas and steppes; wherein soils are sandy and acidic types. In Senegal, most of the species are found in the south under a Sudano-Sahelian zone, growing on almost all vegetation and soil types. This study, which is a contribution to the improvement and preservation of the living environment of these species, is an important step for the facilitation of any conservation action. It also encourages a greater appreciation of the value of these species, which are potential sources of genes from Digitaria exilis, the cultivated species. Key words: Digitaria, climatic zones, vegetation types, soil types, conservation, Senegal.

Objectifs : Le but de cette étude était de déterminer la composition phytochimique et la teneur en grandes classes chimiques des tiges les plus utilisées comme bâtonnets frotte-dents chez les peul de Widou Thiengoli au Nord Ferlo (Sénégal). Méthodes et résultats : Des entretiens ouverts semi structurés ont permis de recueillir les plantes les plus utilisées. L’indice de fidélité renseigne sur la convergence des usages quant à l’emploi des plantes comme bâtonnets frotte-dent comparé aux autres pratiques cosmétiques. L’étude de la composition phytochimique des tiges a ciblé 8 classes chimiques. Les tanins et les saponines sont très fréquents ; les terpénoïdes et les leuco-anthocyanines presque inexistants. Un dosage des flavonoïdes, alcaloïdes et polyphénols, réalisé chez des extraits aqueux, a porté sur 12 plantes. Les meilleures teneurs en polyphénols et alcaloïdes sont recueillies chez Anogeissus leiocarpa, et la meilleure en flavonoïdes chez Commiphora africana. Conclusion et applicabilité des résultats : Ces résultats permettent de sélectionner à travers la composition phytochimique des plantes, les espèces présentant de potentielles activités antimicrobiennes, car renfermant des composés phytochimique doués de fonctions germicides, au- delà de la fonction mécanique connue des bâtonnets dans l’élimination de la plaque dentaire. Mots clés : Bâtonnets frotte-dents, Dosage phytochimique, Ethnobotanique, Téssékéré, Ferlo Nord, 52 Sénégal Diatta et al., J. Appl. Biosci. 2021 Diversité et composition phytochimique des bâtonnets frotte-dents (cure-dents) proposés chez les Peul de la commune de Tessékéré (Ferlo Nord, Sénégal) 16268 Diversity and phytochemical composition of plants used as toothbrush sticks (toothpicks) by Fulani of Tessékéré commune (North Ferlo, Senegal) ABSTRACT Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the phytochemical composition and the content of major chemical classes of the stems most used as tooth-brushing sticks among the Fulani of Widou Thiengoli in North Ferlo (Senegal). Methods and results: Open semi-structured interviews made it possible to collect data on the most used plants. The fidelity index provides information on the convergence of uses regarding the use of plants as toothbrushes compared to other cosmetic practices. The study of the phytochemical composition of the stems targeted 8 chemical classes. Tannins and saponins were very common; almost non- existent were the terpenoids and leuco-anthocyanins. An assay of flavonoids, alkaloids and polypnenols, in aqueous extracts, was carried out on 12 plants. The best contents of polyphenols and alkaloids were obtained from Anogeissus leiocarpa, and the best of flavonoids from Commiphora africana. Conclusion and applicability of the results: These results make it possible to select, through the phytochemical composition of plants, the species exhibiting potential antimicrobial activities, because they contain phytochemical compounds endowed with germicidal functions, beyond the known mechanical function of the rods in the plan removal of dental plaque. Keywords: Toothbrush sticks, Phytochemical determination, Ethnobotany, Téssékéré, North Ferlo, and Senegal.

Sustainable food production in the context of climate change necessitates diversification of agriculture and a more efficient utilization of plant genetic resources. Fonio millet (Digitaria exilis) is an orphan African cereal crop with a great potential for dryland agriculture. Here, we establish high-quality genomic resources to facilitate fonio improvement through molecular breeding. These include a chromosome-scale reference assembly and deep re-sequencing of 183 cultivated and wild Digitaria accessions, enabling insights into genetic diversity, population structure, and domestication. Fonio diversity is shaped by climatic, geographic, and ethnolinguistic factors. Two genes associated with seed size and shattering showed signatures of selection. Most known domestication genes from other cereal models however have not experienced strong selection in fonio, providing direct targets to rapidly improve this crop for agriculture in hot and dry environments., Fonio millet is a fast growing orphan cereal crop with a great potential for dryland agriculture. Here, the authors report chromosome-scale reference genome assembly and population genomic resources to shed light on genetic diversity, population structure and domestication of fonio millet.

Le prunier d’Afrique ou Sclerocarya birrea est un arbre fruitier de la famille des Anacardiaceae, qui fournit aux populations des fruits consommables pendant la periode de soudure. Bien que presente dans les regions a climat soudano-sahelien du Senegal, sa zone de predilection demeure le Ferlo. Elle y fait l’objet de rehabilitation dans la mise en place du programme de l’Union Africaine dite de la muraille verte. Malheureusement, peu d’etudes scientifiques n’ont encore fait mention de la composition nutritive des fruits issus de cette zone. Dans le cadre de la reconstitution du couvert vegetal des zones arides, la connaissance des relations entre l’homme et son milieu s’avere importante. Ainsi, la presente etude est entreprise dans le but de connaitre les usages de Sclerocarya birrea et les potentialites qu’offre son fruit. Des enquetes ethnobotaniques ont permis de recueillir les connaissances sur les usages de l’espece dans la zone du Ferlo (Senegal). Des echantillons de fruits murs recoltes ont ete analyses grâce a des techniques de dosages normalises et conventionnelles. Les resultats revelent que les populations du Ferlo connaissent bien S. birrea , dont l’usage medicinal est de loin le plus important (79%). En usage medicinal, les organes vegetaux les plus utilises sont les ecorces et les feuilles. Les resultats obtenus sur la pulpe du fruit montrent qu'elle constitue une bonne source en vitamine C, en sucres, en Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium et en Polyphenols totaux. L'huile de l'amande presente des caracteristiques qui dans l'ensemble restent dans la norme admise pour les huiles alimentaires. Ces resultats sont marques par une forte variabilite de la composition physico-chimique qui semble etre liees aux variations des conditions edaphiques et climatiques. Il ressort de cette analyse que le fruit de S. birrea constitue une excellente source de nutriments et peut valablement combler certaines carences nutritionnelles des populations autochtones. Par ailleurs, le fruit presente aussi des potentialites de transformation et de conservation qui doivent etre explorees. Mots cles: Sclerocarya birrea , fruits, usages, valeurs nutritionnelles, polyphenols, vitamine C, variabilite, Ferlo English Abstract The present study was undertaken to know the uses and some nutritional potentials of Sclerocarya birrea . The African plum tree called Sclerocarya birrea is a fruit tree of the Anacardiaceae family, which provides populations some consumable fruits during the lean season. Although it is present in Sudano-Sahelian regions of Senegal, its favorite repartition zone is the Ferlo. Sclerocarya birrea is being rehabilitated in the framework of the implementation of the African Union program called the “Green Wall”. Unfortunately, no scientific studies have mentioned the nutritional content of fruits coming from this area. In the context of the reconstitution of the vegetation cover, knowledge of the relations between man and his environment is important. Thus, the present study is undertaken with the aim of knowing the uses of Sclerocarya birrea and its fruits attibutes. According to that, ethnobotanical surveys have gathered knowledge on the species' uses in the Ferlo area (Senegal). Samples of ripe fruits harvested were analyzed using standard and conventional assay techniques. The results revealed that the populations of the Ferlo are well acquainted with Sclerocarya birrea and that its medicinal use is by far the most important (79%). In medicinal use, the most commonly used plant organs are barks and leaves. The results obtained on the pulp of the fruit showed that it is a good source of vitamin C, sugars, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium and total polyphenols. The almond oil has characteristics that remain within the accepted food standards. These results are marked by a high variability in the physicochemical composition, which appears to be linked to variations in edaphic and climatic conditions. The analysis shows that the fruit of Sclerocarya birrea is an excellent source of nutrients and can validly fill certain nutritional deficiencies of indigenous peoples. The fruit also has potential for transformation that needs to be explored. Keywords: Sclerocarya birrea , fruits, uses, nutritional values, polyphenols, vitamin C, variability, Ferlo

This study focused on two woody leafy vegetables Leptadenia hastata Decne and Senna obtusifolia Link, commonly consumed in Senegal. Leaves were col-lected from three regions. Then, proximate analyses and micronutrients were carried out to evaluate their nutritional values. Results revealed that protein level of S. obtusifolia (SO) is richer (21.75%) than Leptadenia hastata (LH) (18.16%). The cellulose and carbohydrate contents of the two vegetable’s leaves are in the same order except those of LH from Widou which are less rich in cellulose (8.31%) and richest in carbohydrate (6.35%). These leaves are also good sources of various mineral elements and especially iron. Leaves of LH appear to be richer in iron and magnesium, while SO appears to be richer in calcium. Vitamin C intakes of SO leaves are better than those of LH and respectively range from 142 to 196.5 and 22.5 to 159.5 mg/100 g. According to the use of this leafy vegetable by the populations, a domestication opportunity is thus justified to ensure availability and accessibility of these significant sources of micronutrients.

Mead is a beverage obtained by alcoholic fermentation of honey, with an ethanol content of 8% to 18% by volume. In Africa, mead manufacturing methods rely on heating honey and adding extracts of fruits, herbs or spices. “Bessoudioury” mead is then prepared according to the traditional process of the Bassari and Bedick peoples of Kedougou (Senegal). This work on “Bessoudioury” aims to describe and characterize the manufacturing processes. It was also to evaluate the chemical and microbiological characteristics. The study focused on three Kedougou production sites. The manufacturing process of “Bessoudioury” includes a honey heating, a formulation step by adding wine of either Borassus aethiopicum Mart. or Elaeis guineensis. This step is followed by a fermentation’s one during two days. Wine is considered as the essential sources of yeasts for the production of alcohol. “Bessoudioury” has an ethanol content of 8% (v/v). Moulds and Streptococcus were not detected in this mead. According to its polyphenols content, this mead has a nutritional interest, but the process deserves to be reviewed to preserve nutrients.

Le bâtonnet frotte-dent est le materiel d’hygiene dentaire le plus communement utilise au Ferlo pour prevenir les pathologies bucco-dentaires dentaires et garder une belle dentition. Afin d’evaluer l’activite biologique des plantes utilisees comme bâtonnets frotte-dents dans la commune de Tessekere (Nord Senegal), une enquete ethnobotanique au moyen d’un guide d’entretien semi-directif a ete effectuee pour recenser les plantes utilisees. Parmi les especes citees, treize, reparties dans huit familles ont ete retenues sur la base de l’importance de leur Indice de Fidelite (IF). Des extraits aqueux ont ete realises a partir des tiges en vue de l’evaluation leurs activites antimicrobiennes. Des tests de micro dilution ont permis d’evaluer la concentration inhibitrice minimale (CIM) des extraits des plantes selectionnees sur trois souches bacteriennes pathogenes bucco-dentaires ( Streptoccocus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis et Lactobacillus acidophilus ) et deux souches de Candida albicans , levures opportunistes. Les extraits d’Anogeissus leiocarpa, de Sclerocarya birrea et d’Acacia seyal se sont reveles actifs. Anogeissus leiocarpa, plante la plus active, presente un effet significatif contre les deux souches de C. albicans et deux souches bacteriennes (L. acidophilus et P. gingivalis) sur les trois testees, avec des valeurs de CIM comprises entre 16 et 512 µg/ml. L’extrait de S. birrea a montre une activite moderee contre une des deux souches de C. albicans, de meme que celui d’Acacia seyal vis-a-vis de Streptoccocus mutans. Ces resultats mettent en evidence l’interet de ces trois especes ligneuses dans le cadre de l’hygiene bucco-dentaire comme bâtonnets frotte-dents. Mots cles : Bâtonnets frotte-dents, Activites antimicrobiennes, Peul, Tessekere, Ferlo Nord, Senegal. English Title: Antimicrobial activities of plants used as toothbrush (toothpicks) by Fulani of Tessekere commune (North Ferlo, Senegal) The toothbrush stick is the most commonly used dental hygiene material at Ferlo to prevent dental pathologies and keep a beautiful dentition. In order to evaluate the biological activity of the plants used as rubbing sticks in the municipality of Tessekere (North Senegal), an ethnobotanical survey using a semidirective interview guide was conducted to identify the plants used. Among the species mentioned, thirteen, divided into eight families were selected on the basis of the importance of their Fidelity Index (FI). Aqueous extracts were made from the stems for evaluation of associated antimicrobial activities. Micro dilution tests were used to evaluate the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of selected plant extracts on three bacterial oral pathogenic strains ( Streptoccocus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Lactobacillus acidophilus ) and two strains of Candida albicans (opportunistic yeasts). The extracts of Anogeissus leiocarpa, Sclerocarya birrea and Acacia seyal proved to be active. A. leiocarpa , the most active plant, has a significant effect against both strains of C. albicans and two bacterial strains ( L. acidophilus and P. gingivalis) on the three tested, with MIC values between 16 and 512 μg / ml. The extract of S. birrea showed moderate activity against one of the two strains of C. albicans , as well as that of A. seyal against Streptoccocus mutans. These results highlight the interest of these three woody species in the context of oral hygiene as toothbrush sticks. Keywords : Chewing sticks, Antimicrobial activities, Peul, Tessekere, North Ferlo, Senegal.

Background Among semi-aquatic species of the legume genus Aeschynomene, some have the property of being nodulated by photosynthetic Bradyrhizobium lacking the nodABC genes necessary for the synthesis of Nod factors. Knowledge of the specificities underlying this Nod-independent symbiosis has been gained from the model legume Aeschynomene evenia but our understanding remains limited due to the lack of comparative genetics with related taxa using a Nod factor-dependent process. To fill this gap, we combined different approaches to perform a thorough comparative analysis in the genus Aeschynomene. Results This study significantly broadened previous taxon sampling, including in allied genera, in order to construct a comprehensive phylogeny. In the phylogenetic tree, five main lineages were delineated, including a novel lineage, the Nod-independent clade and another one containing a polytomy that comprised several Aeschynomene groups and all the allied genera. This phylogeny was matched with data on chromosome number, genome size and low-copy nuclear gene sequences to reveal the diploid species and a polytomy containing mostly polyploid taxa. For these taxa, a single allopolyploid origin was inferred and the putative parental lineages were identified. Finally, nodulation tests with different Bradyrhizobium strains revealed new nodulation behaviours and the diploid species outside of the Nod-independent clade were compared for their experimental tractability and genetic diversity. Conclusions The extended knowledge of the genetics and biology of the different lineages sheds new light of the evolutionary history of the genus Aeschynomene and they provide a solid framework to exploit efficiently the diversity encountered in Aeschynomene legumes. Notably, our backbone tree contains all the species that are diploid and it clarifies the genetic relationships between the Nod-independent clade and the Nod-dependent lineages. This study enabled the identification of A. americana and A. patula as the most suitable species to undertake a comparative genetic study of the Nod-independent and Nod-dependent symbioses. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12870-018-1567-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Ant-plant interactions mediated by special structures provided by plants such as domatia, extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) and food bodies, are very frequent in tropical ecosystems. To understand why ants are frequently encountered on most species of Carapa Aubl. (Meliaceae), we investigated the presence of extranuptial nectaries (ENNs) in all 27 species of the genus, spanning its entire distributional range in tropical Africa and America. We report for the first time in the genus the occurrence of extrafloral nectaries (at the base of the petiole, along the rachis of the pinnately compound leaf, on bracts) petaline nectaries (on the outer surface of petals), and pericarpial nectaries (on the surface of fruits), and confirm the presence of nectaries on leaflets in Carapa. Petiolar nectaries are the most common, occurring in 85% of the species. Nectaries were mainly active in young developing plant organs. Ants were observed foraging on exudates from these nectaries. The secretions from these glands help to explain the abundance of ants on Carapa trees. Although similar nectaries were also found in other members of the subfamily Cedreloideae, their position and frequency provide new characters for the identification of Carapa species in the field and the herbarium. As in other myrmecophilous plants, ENNs probably confer adaptive advantages to Carapa trees.

International audience; The three main branches of the Saloum delta: the Saloum in the north (110 km), the Diombos (30 km) and the Bandiala in the south (18 km) are joined by numerous small channels, locally called “bolons”. They create many islands that are bordered by dense mangrove and comprise three ecological zones: maritime, amphibious and continental. The delta comprises an area of around 500,000 ha and is inhabited by human communities that have been involved in maritime activities for well over two millennia. These include the exploitation of shellfish including the bivalves oyster, Crassostrea gasar, and cockle (Arca senilis) as well as the gastropods “Yett” (Cymbium spp.) and “Touffa” (Murex spp., Thais spp.), and the cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis), all of which proliferate in the Delta. Artificial shell mounds comprising bivalves and gastropods provide evidence for a human presence in the Delta for well over 2000 years. In some cases, the shell mounds have also been reused as burial grounds and contain many remains of the ancient fisher-collector inhabitants. The Saloum delta is: (1) an exceptional archaeological landscape with many hundreds of sites, and several periods of excavation, including 1939 (J. de Saint-Seine, M. Yvetot, T. Monod), 1951-1956 (H. Bessac, R. Mauny, G. Thilmans and C. Descamps), in 2000 (H. Bocoum, A. Camara, C. Descamps, E. Dioh, M. Gueye, A.A. Seck, G. Thilmans); (2) an archaeological heritage comprising shell mounds which support many baobab trees (Adonsonia digitata). In some cases, these trees become “sacred forests or woods” where ritual activities take place near modern villages; (3) a rich natural heritage containing shell mounds that have become refuges for wildlife especially birds, and flora…; (4) a cultural landscape comprising enduring traditions that are thousands of years old, based on shellfish harvesting and fishing, in a fragile natural environment of great biodiversity. It is one of the few places in the world where traditional shellfishing still survives. Researchers from Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar (A. Camara, E. Dioh, M. Guèye, M. Sall) and a team from the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) (K. Hardy, R. Piqué, J. Marti) have been conducting ethnoarchaeological research on the Atlantic coast and the Gokehor bolon since 2010. The focus of the work is to document the distribution of the archaeological shell middens, conduct excavations, obtain samples for radiocarbon dating and record the cultural traditions associated with the current collection of shell middens. There are many features of this research that will be of interest to archaeologists, as well as contributing data in palaeoclimatology, archaeozoology and malacology in a delta inscribed on UNESCO's World Heritage List in 2011 on the basis of criteria III, IV and V.; Les trois bras principaux du delta du Saloum : le Saloum au Nord (110 km), le Diombos (30 km) et le Bandiala au Sud (18 km) s’emboîtent par une infinité de petits canaux, appelés localement « bolons ». Ils créent de nombreuses îles bordées d’une mangrove dense qui font apparaître trois ensembles écologiques : un domaine maritime, un domaine insulaire et amphibie et un domaine continental. S’étendant sur environ 500 000 ha, le delta est habité par des communautés humaines qui y mènent, depuis plus de deux millénaires, des activités basées sur des ressources halieutiques dont une bonne partie concerne l’exploitation des mollusques : huîtres (Crassostrea gasar), les « Yett » (Cymbium spp.), les « Touffa » (Murex spp., Thais spp.) et les arches (Arca senilis) ainsi que les seiches (Sepia officinalis) qui prolifèrent dans ce biotope. Témoins d’activités dont les plus anciennes remontent dans le delta à plus de 2000 ans, des milliers d’amas de coquilles de bivalves et de gastéropodes constituent des vestiges archéologiques. Ces restes de consommation ont été aussi réutilisés comme éléments de construction de nécropoles, de tumulus funéraires par d’anciens pêcheurs-collecteurs. Le delta du Saloum est : (1) un paysage archéologique exceptionnel constitué de centaines de sites dont certains ont fait l’objet de fouilles en 1939 (J. de Saint-Seine, M. Yvetot, T. Monod), en 1951-1956 (H. Bessac, R. Mauny, J. Figuie), en 1971-1973 (G. Thilmans et C. Descamps), en 2000 (H. Bocoum, A. Camara, C. Descamps, E. Dioh, M. Guèye, A.A. Seck, G. Thilmans) ; (2) un patrimoine archéologique réutilisé par les populations d’aujourd’hui pour leurs espaces peuplés de baobabs (Adonsonia digitata) comme des « forêts ou bois sacrés » pour des libations et des sacrifices à faible distance des villages actuels ; (3) un patrimoine naturel avec des amas devenus des niches, des refuges pour la faune en particulier les oiseaux et la flore ; (4) un paysage culturel d’une tradition millénaire toujours vivante privilégiant un mode de vie basé sur la cueillette des coquillages et sur la pêche, dans un milieu naturel fragile d’une grande biodiversité et l’un des rares endroits au monde où les pratiques de collecte des coquillages survivent. Des chercheurs de l’Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar (A. Camara, E. Dioh, M. Guèye, M. Sall) en collaboration avec une équipe de l’Université Autonome de Barcelone (K. Hardy, R. Piqué, J. Marti) mènent depuis 2010 des recherches ethnoarchéologiques dans la bordure atlantique et du bolon de Gokehor pour compléter les inventaires, les fouilles, les datations, les traditions culturelles associées de près ou de loin à la collecte actuelle des coquillages. Les intérêts de ces recherches sont multiples pour les informations archéologiques, paléoclimatiques, archéozoologiques, malacologiques dans un delta inscrit en 2011 sur la Liste du patrimoine mondial de l’UNESCO sur la base des critères III, IV et V.

In rural areas, the local population draws from several forest resources needed for survival including food. Then it is a granary for these native people. Unfortunately, useful wild plants are highly threatened, especially by various human activities. Because of this situation we started with open semi-structured interviews to identify wild fruit plants, their consumed organs and their seasonality in the rural community of Tomboronkoto. Tomboronkoto is located at the edge of the Niokolo-Koba National park (Senegal) and is mainly inhabited by Malinke. We identified 45 wild fruit species belonging to 38 genera that can be divided in 28 botanical families. The more diversified are successively the Anacardiaceae, Tiliaceae, Apocynaceae and Caesalpiniaceae. More than half of the plants inventoried are trees (53%). We can distinguish three categories of fruits depending on their Fidelity Level (FL) that informs us about their popularity: the well-known or common fruits, moderately known fruits and little known fruits. A dozen wild fruits happen to be greatly appreciated with very high fidelity level (100% to 84%). The fruits of Saba senegalensis, Adansonia digitata, Parkia biglobosa, Tamarindus indica and Vitellaria paradoxa are the most variously used because they are appreciated being fresh or cooked. Only fruits of Ficussur are available all year long. The large majority of the most consumed fruits are available between the end of the hot dry season until the middle of the rainy season. This period coincides with the period where crops from the previous rainy season are depleted and the new crops are not yet ripe. Thus, these wild fruits would greatly contribute to food security in this area during the lean period.

La necessite d’habilitation des plantes utilisees en medecine traditionnelle africaine a suscite des investigations sur Momordica charantia Linn (Cucurbitaceae) dont les connaissances sont empiriques. L’etude ethnobotanique a ete menee dans quatre (4) regions du Senegal pendant la campagne 2016/2017, dans le but de preciser ses differents usages en pratiques medicales et voire alimentaires. Lesresultats montrent que les feuilles et la tige sont utilisees chacune dans 91,50% des cas. Elles sont utilisees essentiellement pour traiterles dermatoses (92%), la fatigue (90,5%), les maux de ventre (90,5%), le paludisme (87,5%), les hemorroides (56,5%). Les fruits, baies de petites tailles, de 5 a 15 cm de diametre, jaune orangeavec une pulpe rouge sont consommes dans 38% des cas mais ne font l’objet d’aucune transformation. Les graines de 10 a 16 mm ne sont aucunement pas consommees au Senegal meme si elles contiennent de l’huile. Ces premiers resultats constituent une contribution dans la mise en place d’une base de donnees ethnobotanique sur Momordica charantia au Senegal et ouvrent des perspectives de recherche sur l’apport nutritionnel du fruit et de la composition de son huile. Mots cles : Momordica charantia , Ethnobotanique, Senegal. English Title : Ethnobotanical investigations of Momordica charantia Linn (Cucurbitaceae) in Senegal The need for the empowerment of plants used in traditional African medicine has prompted investigations of Momordica charantia Linn (Cucurbitaceae), whose knowledge is empirical. The study was conducted in four (4) regions of Senegal, in order to specify its different uses in medical practices and even food. An ethnobotanical survey is conducted on the one hand with farmers in the Niayes area (Dakar) during the 2016/2017 season. The results shaved that leaves and stem are each used in 91.50% of cases. They are used to treat dermatitis (92%), fatigue (90.5%), stomach pain (90.5%), malaria (87.5%), and hemorrhoids (56.5%). Fruits, small berries, 5 to 15 cm in diameter, orange-yellow composed of 3 valves, the seeds are 10 to 16 mm with a red pulp, are consumed in 38% of cases but are not the subject of no transformation. Potentially edible seeds are not at all in Senegal. These first results are a contribution tool in the establishment of an ethnobotanical database on Momordica charantia in Senegal and open up research perspectives on the nutritional contribution of the fruit and the oil present in its seeds. Keywords : Momordica charantia , Ethnobotany, diseases, Senegal.

Objectives: Digitaria exilis Stapf (white fonio) is a staple crop in West Africa, mainly consumed during food shortage and highly associated to cultural events. The aim of this study was to test the transferability of microsatellite loci developed for D. exilis to other species of the genus Digitaria in order to further investigate the diversity of species for which there is little genomic resources available. Methodology and Results : Eight (8) microsatellite loci on 119 accessions from 39 Digitaria species were tested. With an average amplification percentage of 62.8% ranging from 25% to 100 %, these SSR markers are transferable to other species of the genus Digitaria. The transferability was higher for D. argyrothrica, D. fuscescens, D. longiflora, D. milanjiana and D. ternata. In some species such as D. abyssinica, D. nuda, D. pennata, D. pseudodiagonalis and D. tisserantii, the very low percentage of cross-amplification confirmed their distance from D. exilis. D. longiflora , thought as the most related wild species to D. exilis , exhibited 100% level of transferable polymorphic loci. Conclusion and application of findings : This set of markers will be useful for breeding and studying relationships between Digitaria species. Keywords : Cross-species amplification, Digitaria, genetic diversity, microsatellite loci.

Ethnoarchaeological and ethnobotanical studies help to generate hypotheses that can be used to assist in interpreting archaeological records. Woody plants remain an important primary raw material resource for the fisher-gatherer people of the Saloum Delta in Senegal. The aim of this study is to document the uses of these resources within the traditional economy as well as to gain an understanding of the skills associated with obtaining, processing, and using these plants here. We have registered uses for 25 species. The anatomical parts that are used are the leaves, phloem, wood, roots, palm leaf stalks, and bark.

As a good food supply for the local people in various Senegalese regions, the forest fruits are becoming very important. They are using between foods or main condiment for dishes in many part of Africa. These fruits represent non negligible sources of vitamins, carbohydrates and minerals. Instead of more commercialized species such as Adansonia digitata L., Detarium senegalensis J.F.Gmel., Saba senegalensis (A.DC.) Pichon, Tamarindus indica L., this article focused on nutritional values of other fruits with little interest or neglected. These species were Ficus gnaphalocarpa, L., Cordyla pinnata (Lepr. ex A.Rich.) Milne-Redh. and Icacina senegalensis, harvested in soudano-sahelian zone; while Sarcocephalus latifolius (Sm.) E.A. Bruce belongs to Sudanese zone. The fruit pulps were isolated and freeze dried before analysis. The results showed that acidity, vitamin C and total minerals were significantly different from one fruit to another. S. latifolius with the highest acidity content (402.43 mg/100 g) and best vitamin C content if 1488 mg/100 g were found. Also as results, S. latifolius provided high protein content nearby the 20%. The caloric contributing (kcal/100 g) were 102.5, 177 and 132 respectively for F. gnaphalocarpa, C. pinnata, and S. latifolius. The ash contents were the same for all species (4.5%), indicating the richness in mineral elements. Furthermore, all species in this study were good sources of iron, copper and zinc. However, small amounts of sodium were noticed in all samples. Analysis of total sugars and their profile showed that I. senegalensis and C. pinnata were more appreciated. These results predicted the useful incomes for forest fruits in human being. Lot of medicinal virtues has been recognized from these fruits. The increase in value and the preservation of the biodiversity are necessary particularly for C. pinnata which presents a serious threat because of the strong income for wood production.

La caracterisation biochimique de 11 cultivars de bissap a ete menee afin de comparer leurs teneurs en elements nutritifs et de determiner la meilleure periode de recolte des feuilles. Les plants ont ete produits au Centre pour le Developpement de l’Horticulture (CDH) suivant les recommandations du guide de production du bissap de l’Institut Senegalais de Recherches Agricoles (ISRA). Des echantillons de 100 g de feuilles fraiches ont ete preleves au hasard sur des plantes de chacun de ces cultivars. Ces prelevements ont ete effectues a quatre (4) dates durant le cycle de developpement vegetatif. Les analyses biochimiques ont ete faites a l’Institut de Technologie Alimentaire (ITA) selon les methodes AOAC. La teneur moyenne en elements nutritifs des feuilles a ete comparee a celle du chou, mais egalement evaluee a differentes dates durant le cycle de developpement vegetatif des plantes. Les resultats montrent que les feuilles de bissap sont riches en elements nutritifs. Une difference existe entre le type rouge et le type vert. Bien que les feuilles du type vert soient les plus consommees, le type rouge a une teneur plus elevee en acidite, vitamine C, calcium et phosphore, alors que, la teneur des autres elements chimiques (proteines, matieres grasses, cendres, cellulose, fer et valeur energetique) est sensiblement la meme. Les feuilles de bissap montrent une teneur plus elevee en proteines, vitamine C, fer et calcium que le chou. La date optimale de recolte pour beneficier de plus de fer, proteines et acidite se situe a 97 jours apres semis. © 2017 International Formulae Group. All rights reserved. Mots cles: Cultivars, bissap, periode optimale de recolte, elements nutritifs, Senegal English Title: Using biochemical parameters to identify the recommended optimal harvest time of Roselle’s ( Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) leaves in Senegal English Abstract Biochemical characterization of 11 cultivars of Roselle was conducted to compare content of micronutrients and determinate the recommended optimal harvest time of leaves to maximize on the nutrients. Plants were grown at the research station of Center for Horticulture Development (CDH) following the technical guideline of Senegalese Research Institute for Agriculture (ISRA). A sample of 100 g was collected at random on plants of each cultivar. Sampling was done at 4 dates during whole cycle of plant growth. The biochemical analysis was done by Food Technology Institute (ITA) in Senegal, using AOAC methods. The average nutrients content of Roselle leaves was compared with cabbage content. Our results show that Roselle leaves content more nutrient than cabbage. Roselle green type and red type show difference in nutrient content. Even though the green type is commonly consumed, the red type is richer in acidity, vitamin C, calcium and phosphorus. However, nutrient content of proteins, fat, ash, celluloses, iron and energy are similar. Roselle leaves show high nutrient content in proteins, vitamin C, iron and calcium than cabbage. The best date to harvest leaves for high level of iron, proteins and acidity is 97 days after sowing. © 2017 International Formulae Group. All rights reserved. Keywords: Cultivars, roselle, best harvesting period, nutrient content, Senegal

African eggplant (Solanum aethiopicum L. and S. macrocarpon L.) is one of the most commonly consumed fruit vegetables in tropical Africa, in quantity and value probably the third after tomato and onion. Commercial production for supply to the cities is increasing. Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is another important vegetable crop in sub-Saharan Africa; its leaves, seed, and calyces are eaten. Roselle leaves and calyces are nutritious and rich in iron, β-carotene, and ascorbic acid. Although there is a market for African eggplant and Roselle, farmers have been slow to adopt new improved varieties due to use of traditional breeding method. To increase adoption rates of new varieties, we used a participatory varietal selection process to identify new varieties of both plants based on fruit yield, leaf, calyx traits, and consumers’ preference. Fifteen lines and varieties of each species from several African countries were evaluated in Bamako, Mali during the 2008 hot rainy season. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used for the selection process. Twenty-two vegetable farmers and traders (or users) from Bamako rated the African eggplant and Roselle varieties based on visual characteristics (fruit color, fruit shape, number of fruits per plant, fruit size, number of secondary branches per plant, leaf size, leaf shape, leaf color, number of calyces per plant, calyx shape, and calyx color). Using a scale from 0 (least preferred) to 5 (most preferred), the varieties and the criteria were ranked, to identify the best variety and the most important criteria. In addition, agronomics data of African eggplant (number of fruits per plant, marketable yield, fruit weight, fruits shape and fruit color) were collected. Agronomics data were also collected on Roselle calyces (number of calyces per plant, fresh calyces yield, dry calyces yield, dry matter and calyces color based on stem color) and leaves production (leaf length and width, economic yield, leaf shape and stem color). African eggplant line L10, varieties Soxna and Locale Gaya were highly rated for their visual appeal and have the potential to out-yield the local Malian variety. The fruit color and fruit shape, classified top two criteria through participatory selection criteria are important in the choice of users. For leafy entries of Roselle, leaf size was the most important trait. Samandah and line L28 were rated higher than the local check variety (Dah Rouge) for all traits. For calyx varieties of roselle, the number of calyces per plant was the most important trait. For leafy and calyx varieties, the agronomic evaluation show that yield is not a very important criterion in the choice of the users.

Objectif : Determiner la valeur socio-economique des ligneux dans la vie des populations de la communaute rurale de Khossanto, dans la partie orientale du Senegal et apprecier les savoirs et savoir-faire locaux vis-a-vis de l’arbre. Methodologie et resultats : Des enquetes ethnobotaniques ont ete menes aupres des populations de la communaute rurale de Khossanto. Nous avons recense les savoirs et savoir-faire des Malinkes vis-a-vis de l’arbre dans six categories d’usages : alimentation, fourrage, construction, artisanat, energie domestique et phytotherapie, avec des niveaux de consensus assez eleves (partout superieur a 80%). Six especes multi usages (impliquees dans presque toutes les categories) s’averent etre les plus utiles : Cordyla pinnata, Borassus aethiopum, Vitellaria paradoxa, Ziziphus mauritiana, Pterocarpus erinaceus et Adansonia digitata . Les fruits (31%), les feuilles (29%) et le bois (22%) sont les parties les plus utilisees. Conclusion et application des resultats : L’importance socio-economique de l’arbre en milieu malinke est clairement etablie autour de six categories d’usage : le fourrage, l’alimentation humaine, l’energie domestique, la phytotherapie, la construction et l’artisanat. Cette importance des ligneux a pour corollaire un prelevement assez intense de certaines parties, qui devient une menace pour ces especes. Il apparait important d’asseoir un modele de gestion durable de ces parcours communautaires. Mots cles : Ligneux, usages, importance, Senegal , Kedougou.

Two strains (ORS 18692 S7 and ORS 18692 S5) of the nematophagous fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora have been isolated for the first time in Senegal. In vitro, both strains trapped 98% of groups of 7-day-old Meloidogyne mayaguensis juveniles within 48 h. Their optimal growth occurred at 25-30 C and at a pH of 5.6, but salinity inhibited their development. In order to test the fungi on M. mayaguensis in pots and in mixed populations of Meloidogyne spp. on tomato in the field, the fungus was incorporated into compost blocks before sowing and subsequent transplanting. In pot experiments during the cool season (28 C), both strains reduced nematode populations and stimulated seedling growth. In field trials during the hot season (35 C), both strains were efficient in reducing Meloidogyne populations. The feasibility of combining the use of compost blocks with the introduction of A. oligospora is discussed. Pour la premie re fois, deux souches du champignon ne matophage Arthrobotrys oligospora (souches ORS 18692 S5...

Objectif: Le savoir indigene a Widou Thiengoly est entre les mains des bergers qui vivent dans des ecosystemes souvent fragilises. Il est normal de preserver ce savoir nomade et ancestral. Methodologie et resultats: Ainsi, nous avons mene des enquetes aupres des bergers peuls de Widou. Un guide d’entretien a ete utilise pour recueillir les informations. Nous avons inventorie 74 especes reparties dans 32 familles botaniques. Les familles les plus representees sont les Leguminoseae (27%) et les Combretaceae (10%). Soixante quinze pathologies sont traitees par ces especes medicinales. Les organes les plus utilises sont les feuilles et les racines. Ces especes medicinales et ces organes sont souvent utilises en association dans le traitement des pathologies. Conclusion et application des resultats: Les ressources vegetales jouent un role important dans la sante des populations surtout rurales et pose en meme temps la necessite de la prise en compte des connaissances ancestrales et traditionnelles dans les politiques de sante publique notamment en Afrique et surtout en zone rurale. Mots cles: Indigene, Widou Thiengoly, bergers, nomade, especes medicinales, pathologies, sante publique, zone rurale English Title: Ethnobotanical medicinal plants among Fulani herders Widou Thiengoly the common Tessekere (North Ferlo Senegal) English Abstract Objective: Indigenous knowledge in Widou Thiengoly is in the hands of the herders who live in in this fragile ecosystem. It is normal to preserve this native and ancestral knowledge. Methodology and results: Therefore, a survey was conducted among the Widou Fulani herdsmen. An interview guide was used to collect the information. An inventory of 74 species divided in 32 botanical families was made. The most representative families were the Leguminoseae with 27% and the combretaceae with 10%. Seventy five diseases were treated by these medicinal species. The most used organs were the leaves and the roots. These medicinal species and these organs are often used in combination to treat these diseases. Conclusion and application of results: The vegetable resources play an important role in the health of populations especially rural and pose the same time the necessity of the consideration of the ancestral and traditional knowledge in public health policies in particular in Africa and especially in rural area. Keywords: Indigenous, Widou Thiengoly, herders, native, medicinal species, diseases, public health, rural area

La constipation est une pathologie bien connue de la médecine traditionnelle africaine. Pour la traiter, on utilise à la fois les ressources naturelles aujourd’hui fortement menacées et les savoirs traditionnels. La technique des entretiens ouverts semi-structurés a été partout utilisée. Nous avons interrogé entre 2008 et 2010 des tradithérapeutes et des chefs de ménage Malinké de la communauté rurale de Tomboronkoto. Nos investigations ont permis de recenser dix-huit espèces utilisées contre la constipation. Elles sont constituées de dix-huit genres répartis dans quatorze familles dont les mieux représentées sont les Bombacaceae (3 espèces), les Apocynaceae et les Euphorbiaceae (2 espèces chacune). Les espèces les plus citées sont successivement Combretum glutinosum Perr. ex DC, Tamarindus indica L., Adansonia digitata L., Ozoroa insignis Delile et Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Les feuilles (32%) et les racines (27%) sont les organes les plus utilisés contre la constipation. La macération est le mode de préparation le plus courant et la décoction est réservée aux feuilles. Les noms en Malinké de toutes les espèces inventoriées ont été donnés mais, l’étymologie ou la signification de 22% des noms locaux n’a pu être recueillie. Il y aurait une perte des savoirs relatifs aux noms locaux. Cette dénomination a mis en évidence plusieurs démarches utilisées par les Malinké pour nommer les plantes. Les noms des espèces recensées renvoient le plus souvent à l’écologie (29%), à la morphologie et à des anecdotes (22% chacun).Mots clés: Ethnobotanique, constipation, plantes médicinales, guérisseur traditionnel, pharmacopée sénégalaise

L'arbre. Les arbres du genre Carapa (Meliaceae) sont presents dans toutes les forets d'Afrique tropicale au niveau de l'equateur, du rift d'Albertine jusqu'au Senegal et au Mali pour sa distribution la plus septentrionale. En Afrique comme en Amerique tropicale, le carapa est une source importante de Produits Forestiers ligneux (bois) et Non-Ligneux (PFNL). Le fruit et les graines. Le fruit typique de carapa est une capsule a quatre ou cinq valves qui renferment chacune deux a cinq graines, soit un total de huit a vingt graines par fruit. L'extraction de l'huile. Les villageois ramassent les graines tombees au sol avant qu'elles ne soient parasitees ou germees, ce qui est defavorable a la production d'une huile de qualite. L'extraction de l'huile se fait par ebouillantage des graines. L'huile extraite, polyvalente, est la substance issue de la plante qui est la plus utilisee devant les extraits de feuilles, d'ecorce et de racines. Le marche. En Afrique, le commerce de l'huile de carapa est essentiellement local et reste une activite tres marginale. Une demande accrue emane toutefois de l'utilisation de cette huile comme insecticide naturel dans la culture du coton biologique. Discussion. Compte tenu du potentiel economique de l'huile de carapa, sa commercialisation devrait respecter une retribution equitable des paysannes afin de mieux rentabiliser la production. Des mesures de protection des arbres de carapa et de leur habitat doivent egalement etre prises pour permettre une gestion de la production d'huile a long terme. La plantation semble etre une option durable en vue de la conservation des peuplements naturels de carapa. (Resume d'auteur)

Increasing the production of traditional leafy vegetables that are well adapted to the agro-ecology of Senegal, easy to grow and requiring low inputs, could greatly help to solve the poverty and malnutrition problems in Senegal. However, leafy vegetables are often overlooked by the scientific community. The species of leafy vegetables dealt with in this paper are roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.), cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp), amaranths (Amaranthus L. spp.) and Moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam). To increase production of traditional leafy vegetables, access to good quality seeds is necessary. Two plantcollecting missions were undertaken throughout Senegal by a multidisciplinary research team. Experimentation on Hibiscus regeneration and characterisation was conducted at ISRA-CDH research station. Sixty-four accessions were collected among the four species. Forty-eight accessions of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) were characterised. The level of dissimilarity (63%) within the accessions of roselle confirmed the high degree of intra-species variability. The Richness Index determined for the Diaobe and Matam markets indicated a high degree of genetic diversity of roselle. These are used to select three new lines according to farmers’ preference criteria. In addition, socio-economic surveys were conducted in two pilot villages. It was found that planting dates for leafy vegetables varied greatly, depending on species, locality and season. Sowing was mainly done broadcast. Organic fertilisers were commonly applied. Eighty per cent (80%) of the farmers applied an NPK formulation and small quantities of urea. Traditional irrigation methods are often used in the growing of traditional leafy vegetables. The seeds used by farmers were a mixture of varieties. Farmers identified four types of each of roselle, amaranth and cowpea, but could not differentiate any variety for Moringa. Local markets constitute the main roselle seed supply source. Few farmers have developed traditional methods of seed conservation. Selling of seed is not a common activity in rural areas. Generally, farmers exchange gratuitously theirs seeds. Leaves are commonly sold at the field, in the village, in the nearest city and weekly at local markets called ’Louma‘. Average annual income generated by leaves varies from 41 to 500 USD. Leafy vegetables are used as food and for medicinal purposes. Leafy vegetable consumption in Senegal is around 23 g/person·d.

International audience; Nutritive composition and energy contribution of the fruit of Maerua pseudopetalosa, a food extender in Senegal. Abstract-Introduction. The foods known to be used in times of food shortage, the majority of which are fruits, are identified all over the world such as in Australia, in Sudan, in Senegal, in America, in Sahel and in Chad. The work carried out on these fruits often concerns their nutritive values. In Senegal, Maerua pseudopetalosa (Gil & Gil-Ben) De Wolf, a species of the Capparidaceae family, provides consumable fruits to the native populations for the lean period. No scientific study has yet reported the nutritive composition and energy contribution of this species' fruit. Our study evaluated its contribution of nutritive elements. Materials and methods. Mature fruits of M. pseudopetalosa were collected in June 2007 and May 2008 in the neighborhoods of the villages of Kéniéba and Koussane, in the area of Tam-bacounda in Senegal. The almonds were dried and crushed for the requirements of various samples. Ashes, protein, sugars, fat and mineral elements were determined by standardized traditional methods of analysis. Results and discussions. Our results show that the fruit of M. pseudopetalosa is rich in iron (26.8-45.9 mg·kg-1), potassium (1098-1342 mg·kg-1) and protein (19.26-22.06%). However, the amino acid profile testifies to the poor nutritional quality of its protein. Conclusion. Our analysis shows that, despite everything, the M. pseudopetalosa fruit constitutes an excellent source of nutrients and can validly make up certain deficiencies, especially in periods of food shortage. Senegal / Maerua pseudopetalosa / fruits / proximate composition / mineral content / food supply Composition nutritive et apport énergétique du fruit de Maerua pseudopetalosa, aliment de soudure au Sénégal.

Proceedings of the 18th AETFAT Congress held in Yaounde, Cameroon; International audience; Carapa species are trees and shrubs of tropical forests. In Africa, although Carapa species are widely distributed and diversified from Senegal to Rwanda, their commercial exploitation remains restricted despite their known domestic uses. In Senegal, Carapa is most abundant in Mid and lower Casamance and in the gallery forests of East Senegal. Carapa species are recognised for socio-cultural or medicinal importance throughout their area of distribution.Traditionally the oil is extracted by women in menopause and is used to treat dozens of illnesses and in cosmetics. Leaves, bark and roots are also used.; Les Carapa sont des arbres et arbustes des forêts tropicales. En Afrique, si les Carapa sont largement distribués et diversifiés du Sénégal au Rwanda, leur exploitation commerciale demeure cependant embryonnaire malgré des usages domestiques reconnus. Au Sénégal les Carapa sont plus abondants en moyenne et basse Casamance et dans les galeries forestières des savanes du Sénégal oriental. Les Carapa sont d'importance socio-culturelle ou médicinale reconnue sur toute leur aire de distribution. L'huile est traditionnellement extraite par les femmes ménopausées et est utilisée dans le traitement d'une dizaine de maladies et en cosmétique. Les feuilles, les écorces et les racines sont également utilisées.