Comparative analysis of carbon sequestration in cocoa-based agroforestry systems in Bonon (Central-Western Côte d'Ivoire)

Abstract

This study investigates the ecological role of cocoa-based agroforestry systems (AFS) in Bonon. located in the Central-Western region of Côte d’Ivoire. Floristic inventories were conducted in 72 plots (25 m × 25 m) established across 52 cocoa plantations. To identify structurally homogeneous agroforestry systems. a hierarchical cluster analysis based on the coordinates of factorial axes derived from Multiple Factor Analysis was applied. resulting in the classification of three distinct AFS groups. Group 1 (61.53%) is characterized by a high density of productive cocoa trees (734.4 stems ha⁻¹) and a low abundance of associated shade trees. Group 2 (26.53%) comprises cocoa plantations with a moderate density of associated trees (651.5 stems ha⁻¹) and an average species richness of 8.6 species per plantation. Group 3 (11.54%) includes cocoa plantations integrating perennial crops such as coffee and cashew in active production. The mean aboveground biomass of cocoa trees and associated shade trees across the three AFS groups was estimated at 23.08 t DM ha⁻¹. Biomass was highest in Group 2 (30.48 t DM ha⁻¹). followed by Group 1 (22.71 t DM ha⁻¹). whereas Group 3 exhibited the lowest biomass (16.06 t DM ha⁻¹). The average carbon stock across AFS groups was 11.54 t C ha⁻¹. with Group 2 showing the highest carbon stock (15.24 t C ha⁻¹). consistent with its greater biomass accumulation. Overall. carbon sequestration and storage capacity in cocoa agroforestry systems are strongly influenced by farmers’ management practices and structural attributes. including tree density. species diversity. tree height. and diameter.