Selection of woody species adapted to biological sand dunes fixation in Niger

peer reviewedSeven woody species, of which five natives (Acacia senegal, A. raddiana, A. nilotica, Bauhinia rufescens, Balanites aegyptiaca) and two imported (Prosopis juliflora and P. chilensis) have been tested in terms of biological sand dunes fixation in the Southern east of Niger Republic. In nursery, species underwent a water stress by interrupting the watering during six days. Foliar hydration has been determined in order to evaluate their capacity to limit water loss. In a field experiment, species have been planted on a mechanically prefixed sand dune cord in order to test their ability for stabilization of sand dunes. Survival rates during the first three years have been calculated and height growth was measured. In nursery, results showed that, after six days of water stress, Acacia senegal, A. raddiana, P. chilensis and A. nilotica are the four species limiting the best the water losses. Results on site showed that the best combination in sand dunes fixation, in this zone, would be the association of one or the other of Prosopis (high survival rate and fast growth) with A. raddiana and/or A. nilotica (survival and growth relatively substantial and more important economic interest)