Abstract

This study, conducted in the Yapo-Abbé classified forest in southern Côte d'Ivoire, assessed the potential for natural regeneration from the soil seed bank. A total of 800 plots of 1 m², distributed across different biotopes, were sampled to a depth of 0 to 20 cm, and the soil samples were subsequently germinated under controlled conditions. Ninety-seven species were recorded. High germination densities were observed for pioneer species such as Cecropia peltata and Musanga cecropioides. Species like Discoglypremna caloneura and Milicia excelsa, although represented by only three seed trees per hectare, produced 6,927 and 1,929 seedlings per hectare, respectively. Conversely, species such as Strombosia glaucescens and Uapaca esculenta, despite being well-represented in seed trees, produced no seedlings. The main commercial species (Milicia excelsa and Terminalia ivorensis) exhibited low regeneration densities from the soil seed bank. Seed dispersal was primarily facilitated by wildlife. These results indicate the existence of an important ecological reservoir ensuring forest resilience, while highlighting potential scarcity risks for certain commercial species. In the context of climate change and anthropogenic pressures, the study recommends conservation, preservation of microhabitats, and regular monitoring of the soil seed bank.

Key words: Côte d'Ivoire, germination, soil seed bank, regeneration, Yapo-Abbé classified forest.