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Research Article
Native Applications of Desert Date (Balanites aegyptiaca) Tree from the Three Northern Regions of Cameroon
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
1-10
Received:
28 November 2025
Accepted:
16 December 2025
Published:
16 January 2026
Abstract: The objective of this study was to contribute to the valorization of B. aegyptiaca and local technologies. Local uses were studied in northern Cameroon (Adamawa, North and Far North). A questionnaire was administered in nine locations, three per region. The results showed that the largest number were found along the Far North stretch: Mayo-Kani and Mayo-Danay divisions, extending to the Chadian stretch. Its presence in Adamawa is mainly reported in the locality of Mbe. The name Tanné, in Fulfulde, was the most common name in all three regions. All parts of the tree were used by locals (100% of respondents). Native uses were numerous: food, medicinal, animal feed, domestic, cosmetic, industrial and handicraft. Preparations were based on the pulp. It also appeared that B. aegyptiaca was widely used in the treatment of numerous ailments and diseases. The kernel of B. aegyptiaca had technological potential. Kernel oil was seen to be primarily produced upon demand. A traditional oil extraction process has been described for the first time in Cameroon, to the best of our knowledge. The marketing of B. aegyptiaca fruits and their derivatives was socio-economically important for the population in général, and for women in particular. A detailed traditional oil extraction technique in Cameroon has been described for the first time. This survey provided information on B. aegyptiaca in Cameroon in terms of opportunities, raw material supply and technological possibilities.
Abstract: The objective of this study was to contribute to the valorization of B. aegyptiaca and local technologies. Local uses were studied in northern Cameroon (Adamawa, North and Far North). A questionnaire was administered in nine locations, three per region. The results showed that the largest number were found along the Far North stretch: Mayo-Kani and...
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Research Article
Wood Basic Density, Stem Quality, and Disease Resistance of Corymbia and Eucalyptus Species at North Ruvu Forest Plantation, Kibaha District, Tanzania
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
11-21
Received:
14 December 2025
Accepted:
5 January 2026
Published:
23 January 2026
Abstract: Forest plantations in Tanzania play a critical role in supporting sustainable wood supply hence reducing pressure on natural forests. However, expansion of forest plantations in the coastal lowland areas remains constrained by the limited availability of appropriate tree species that combine varieties of traits such as acceptable wood quality, stem form, and resistance to biotic stresses in order to cope with the challenging site conditions. This study evaluated wood basic density (WBD), stem quality, and disease resistance of eight-year-old Corymbia and Eucalyptus pure species/provenances grown at North Ruvu Forest Plantation, Kibaha District, Tanzania. The trials were established using a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with five replications for Corymbia and six for Eucalyptus. WBD was determined from increment core samples, while stem quality and disease resistance were assessed in the field using standardized visual scoring systems. The results (presented as mean ± standard error (SE)) shows that (Corymbia species/provenances differed significantly in WBD, ranging from 385 ± 18 kg m-3 (C. henryi, CSIRO) to 475 ± 27 kg m-3 (C. citriodora, TTSA). In contrast, Eucalyptus species showed lower and more uniform WBD values (mean = 394 ± 0.9 kg m-3), with no significant differences detected among entries. C. variegata (CSIRO) and C. citriodora (TTSA) showed the highest stem quality, with 100% and 92% high-quality stems, respectively. Disease resistance was strongest in C. citriodora (TTSA and ZFC) and E. camaldulensis (TTSA), where no visible disease symptoms were observed. Overall performance ranking identified C. citriodora (TTSA), C. variegata (CSIRO), and E. camaldulensis (TTSA) as the most promising species/provenances for coastal lowland conditions. These findings demonstrate the strong potential of selected Corymbia species as viable alternatives or complements to Eucalyptus in Tanzanian plantation forestry and provide empirical guidance for site–species matching and diversification strategies in similar environments.
Abstract: Forest plantations in Tanzania play a critical role in supporting sustainable wood supply hence reducing pressure on natural forests. However, expansion of forest plantations in the coastal lowland areas remains constrained by the limited availability of appropriate tree species that combine varieties of traits such as acceptable wood quality, stem...
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Research Article
Diversity of Fishery Resources in Mangrove Ecosystems: Case of Saloum Delta in Senegal
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
22-36
Received:
2 December 2025
Accepted:
18 December 2025
Published:
26 January 2026
Abstract: The objective of this study is to enhance the understanding of the diversity and structure of fishery resources. To achieve this, we conducted beach seine catches in two seasons from 2020 to 2022 at six sites within the Gandoule Marine Protected Area. All individuals captured were identified and counted, and their weight and size were measured. In total, 58 species from 46 genera and 31 families were recorded. Diversity, weight, and growth parameters of fishery resources showed variation across time and locations. Species richness and abundance varied significantly (p<0.05) between sites. Baradia (13.33±6.02) had significantly higher richness than Pass Fambine (5.66±4.27). The highest abundances were at Donakal (136.67±148.73), with the lowest at Pass Diamniadio (24.67±13.61). Over the study period, average richness declined from 10.83±6.63 to 7.33±2.87 species, and abundance decreased from 82.58±72.98 to 23.67±12.52 individuals from 2020 to 2022. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in overall diversity among sites and years. Analysis of structural characteristics revealed significant spatio-temporal variation in biomass (P<0.05). Donakal (20.14±6.43kg) showed higher biomass than Pass Fambine (5.11±1.55kg). Biomass declined from 11.81±11.54kg in 2020 to 3.97±2.36kg in 2022, while the proportion of small fish rose from 69.47% to 72.73%. Fish length decreased significantly (p<0.05) over the study period, from 257.12±40.69cm to 157.48±16.71cm. Despite some contradictory data on the proportion of small fish (which rose then fell), the trends indicate a decline in fishery resources in the Saloum Delta, attributed to overexploitation, habitat degradation, and climate change.
Abstract: The objective of this study is to enhance the understanding of the diversity and structure of fishery resources. To achieve this, we conducted beach seine catches in two seasons from 2020 to 2022 at six sites within the Gandoule Marine Protected Area. All individuals captured were identified and counted, and their weight and size were measured. In ...
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Research Article
Prevalence of Endoparasites in Slaughtered Broiler, Layer, and Local Chickens at Darajani Market, Zanzibar
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
37-43
Received:
8 October 2025
Accepted:
20 November 2025
Published:
30 January 2026
Abstract: Endoparasites are a major threat to poultry health and productivity globally and in Tanzania including Zanzibar. A research gap exists on comparative analyses of distinct endoparasite profiles across the local and exotic chicken types. The main objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of endoparasites in broiler, layer, and local chickens at Darajani chicken slaughter market in Zanzibar. The specific objectives were to assess the prevalence, intensity, and types of endoparasites in slaughtered chickens, assess species diversity and, explore links between chicken types and management practices, and provide baseline data to support targeted parasite control strategies for better poultry health, productivity, and food security in Zanzibar. Methods: The cross-sectional study involved a total of ninety fecal samples (using Cochran sample size formula) that were collected and analyzed using flotation and sedimentation methods. Sampling was conducted once a week for one month. Results: Out of ninety fecal samples, the flotation method identified 65 (72.2%) as negative, with Eimeria spp. being the most common parasite identified (12.2%). The sedimentation method proved to be a more efficient diagnostic tool with sensitivity of 83.3% compared to 43.3% for flotation method. Sedimentation method also detected a wider range of parasites. The most prevalent parasite detected by sedimentation was Ascaridia spp (17.8%). A statistical analysis confirmed that while the two methods are related (p-value <0.05), they provide distinct and complementary information. Also, the study revealed a high endoparasite prevalence, with 54 out of 90 fecal samples (60%) testing positive. The study also found significant differences in infection rates among the three types of chickens (p<0.05). Local chickens had the highest prevalence (24.4%), while layers had the lowest (12.2%). This highlights the vulnerability of local chickens, due to their free-range management system, and underscores the protective benefits of the more controlled environment used for layers. Conclusion and recommendation: The study concluded that local chickens were vulnerable because their free-range system exposes them to parasites in contaminated environments. Sedimentation method proved to be a superior diagnostic tool with higher sensitivity than flotation method and detected a wider range of parasites. It is recommended for public health officials in Zanzibar to create a targeted parasite control program to improve both animal health and food safety.
Abstract: Endoparasites are a major threat to poultry health and productivity globally and in Tanzania including Zanzibar. A research gap exists on comparative analyses of distinct endoparasite profiles across the local and exotic chicken types. The main objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of endoparasites in broiler, layer, and loc...
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Research Article
Climatic Influence on the Predation Dynamics of African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 1, February 2026
Pages:
44-52
Received:
9 January 2026
Accepted:
21 January 2026
Published:
24 February 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20261501.15
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Abstract: This study investigates the predation dynamics of the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) within the Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon, focusing on the interplay between predation pressures and climatic influences. The African buffalo, a keystone species in the park's ecosystem, faces various predators, including lions, crocodiles, and hyenas, who’s hunting patterns may be influenced by climatic factors such as temperature, rainfall, and seasonal changes. Utilizing a combination of field observations, and climatic data analysis, this research aims to elucidate the relationships between buffalo population dynamics, predation rates, and environmental variables. Preliminary findings suggest that periods of extreme weather events significantly affect predator behavior and buffalo vulnerability, potentially leading to shifts in population stability. Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective wildlife management and conservation strategies in the face of climate change. Buffalo populations, together with their predators were monitored and observed from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm for four days each week. Additionally, data was collected on rainfall, sunshine, temperature and humidity simultaneously. The predation of African buffalo showed a significant association on habitat r = 0.303 P<0.05, water sources r = 0.405 P = 0.019, climatic conditions X2 = 11.827 df=6 P<0.05, humidity X2 = 4.813 df=4 P<0.05, and human encroachment X2 = 11.741 df=4 P=0.019 respectively. More so, habitat has shown a significance on food resources X2 = 2.972 df=2 P<0.05 and environmental temperature rating r=0.571 P=0.001 respectively. There was a significant association between atmospheric temperature rating and buffalo food X2 = 14.707 df=4 P=0.005. A significant correlation was equally recorded between humidity rating and predatory habitat r=0.211 P<0.05. Results indicated that climatic variations significantly affect prey availability and predator behavior, leading to fluctuating predators pressure on buffalo populations. Increased rainfall correlates with higher grass biomass, enhancing buffalo habitat quality but also attracting predators. This research highlights the complex interplay between climatic factors and predator-prey dynamics, providing insights for conservation strategies aimed at maintaining the ecological balance within the park. This study contributes to the broader discourse on ecosystem resilience and the impacts of environmental variability on wildlife interactions in African savannas.
Abstract: This study investigates the predation dynamics of the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) within the Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon, focusing on the interplay between predation pressures and climatic influences. The African buffalo, a keystone species in the park's ecosystem, faces various predators, including lions, crocodiles, and hyenas, w...
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,
Gilles Bernard Nkouam*
