Ecosystem services of woody species along an ecological disturbance gradient in Sudanian savannas of western Burkina Faso (West Africa)

Abstract

Background: Ecosystem services (ES) are increasingly threatened by intense human pressure leading to species over-exploitation and ecosystem degradation. This study aims to assess the potential ES delivered by woody species under varying ecological disturbance levels and land use/land cover classes through indigenous knowledge. Methods: To this end, ethnobotanical surveys were conducted in three areas of Burkina Faso: the Watershed of Dano, villages surrounding the Total Wildlife Reserve of Bontioli, and the Game Ranch of Nazinga. A total of 240 open-ended interviews were conducted to record the provisioning, regulatory, supporting, and cultural services provided by woody species. The Index of the capacity to provide ecosystem services of Species was applied to quantify ES across different ecological disturbance levels. Results: Results identified 129 woody species providing 15 distinct ES across all categories. Agroecosystems contributed of the highest level of ES provision, surpassing even savanna ecosystems with lower ecological disturbance level. Notably, even heavily modified areas showed considerable ES provision, emphasizing local practices that sustain valuable species. Promoting agroforestry is essential to enhance local capacity for biodiversity conservation and sustainable ES management. Conclusions: To secure long-term provisioning, local communities should be sensitized about the full spectrum of ES, including support, regulation, and cultural dimensions. Keywords: agroforestry, conservation, indigenous knowledge, land use, woody species