Relationship between ecological indicators and teak wood characteristics in Tchorogo plantation (Togo)

Abstract

In the Tchorogo teak plantation in the Central Region of Togo (1°00'E, 8°21'N), a contribution to the sustainable forest management was implemented through the study of the relationship between ecological
indicators and anatomical parameters of teak wood. To do this, three phytocoenoses have been described in the forest, using the synusial approach inside the undergrowth plant communities. In each phytocoenose, silvicultural parameters of plantations and anatomical properties of teak wood were studied taking into account the age of the trees. Results showed that teak productivity level, which is linked to the fibre properties of teak wood varied significantly (F749,2=71.81; P<0.001 for fibre length; F749,2=5.39; P=0.005 for fibre width; F749,2= 8.99; P<0.001 for fibre lumen diameter; F749,2=8.16; P=0.04 for fibre wall thickness); they depend on the age of the stands and ecological factors inside phytocoenoses. This research demonstrated that the synusial approach to phytosociology can be used in teak plantation to predict wood quality. As main wood properties depend on wood anatomy, the undergrowth plant communities in teak stand provide precious and useful information about some wood properties (strength properties). One of the conclusion is that Forest Management Units (FMUs) could be implemented in accordance to ecological indicators, trees productivity and wood quality in
Togolese teak plantations.

Keywords: Teak plantation, Togo, phytocoenose, ecological indicators, teak wood, anatomical properties.