Influence of Different Environments on Germination Parameters and Seedling Morphology in Khaya senegalensis (Desr.) A. Juss (Meliaceae)

Khaya senegalensis is one of the largest and most majestic trees in Africa. Overexploited for its precious wood and medicinal values, the natural stands of this species are in danger of extinction in Cote d’Ivoire. Its sustainable management through regeneration techniques and assessment of its degree of adaptation to the changing climate is necessary. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of different environments on seedling germination and development in Khaya senegalensis. A total of 2160 seeds from different mother plants and 540 individuals from seed germination were selected and evaluated. The trials were conducted on three sites that were distinct by their microclimate (two nurseries in Cote d’Ivoire and one greenhouse in France). Analysis of variance showed that germination and morphology parameters were not influenced by the characteristics of the mother plants used (p > 0.05), but rather by the study sites (P Khaya senegalensis. This study could be extended to other species in order to restore disturbed ecosystems.