Vulnerability and regeneration potential of Bambusa vulgaris in Ebolowa, South Cameroon
Paper Details
Vulnerability and regeneration potential of Bambusa vulgaris in Ebolowa, South Cameroon
Abstract
Bamboo resources play an increasingly important role in supporting rural livelihoods, ecosystem restoration, and sustainable bio-based industries in tropical regions. This study assessed the availability, vulnerability, and vegetative propagation potential of Bambusa vulgaris and Bambusa vulgaris var. vittata in the Municipality of Ebolowa II, southern Cameroon. Field inventories were conducted to evaluate species distribution and abundance while a propagation experiment was established to assess the influence of substrate type (soil, sand, and soil–sand mixture) on the vegetative propagation success of B. vulgaris var. vittata. Results revealed a clear dominance of B. vulgaris, which exhibited greater abundance, wider spatial distribution, and higher biomass contribution than B. vulgaris var. vittata. The predominance of B. vulgaris is attributed to its high ecological adaptability and tolerance to local environmental conditions. Utilization patterns differed markedly between species. While B. vulgaris was mainly subjected to destructive cutting and clearing, B. vulgaris var. vittata experienced higher exploitation pressure relative to its availability because of its ornamental, structural, and artisanal value. The propagation trial showed that substrate type did not significantly affect sprouting rate, shoot production, growth, or mortality of B. vulgaris var. vittata under controlled conditions (p > 0.05). However, sandy substrates tended to promote faster sprouting and higher emergence rates. These findings highlight the need for integrated bamboo management strategies combining sustainable harvesting, improved propagation techniques, and strengthened local value chains to enhance bamboo conservation and utilization in southern Cameroon.
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Rodine Tchiofo Lontsi*, Duchesse Elvira Kepmou, Emilienne Laure Ngahane, Jacques Christophe Awoa Essam, Isaac Blaise Djoko, 2026. Vulnerability and regeneration potential of Bambusa vulgaris in Ebolowa, South Cameroon. J. Biodiv. Environ. Sci., 28(6), 68-79.
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