State of knowledge and research perspectives of Sclerocarya birrea subspecies birrea: a review

Abstract

Sclerocarya birrea subspecies birrea is an underutilized indigenous fruit tree from sub-Saharan Africa. This literature review aims to  provide an overview of the current knowledge about this species and identify research and development perspectives. Google Scholar,  Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Dimensions were used to compile scientific articles, books, and thesis. Sclerocarya birrea subspecies  birrea is well-known throughout its distribution range. Its fruit pulp and seeds are widely used for human consumption, leaves, bark, and  roots are valued in traditional medicine. However genetic and phenotypic diversity of this species remains undescribed. The population  structure shows that the species is underrepresented in the smaller diameter size classes, indicating a potential future decline. To  facilitate conservation and domestication efforts of Sclerocarya birrea subspecies birrea, further research is needed to assess the species  varieties included local knowledge, as well as, regeneration potential, fruit yield, and commercialization potentials.