Publications
A Study to Analyze Nutritional, Chemical and Microbiological Properties of Senilia senilis and Crassostrea tulipa from the Saloum Delta (Senegal)
Processed bivalves from the Saloum Delta, including bloody cockles (Senilia senilis) and oysters (Crassostrea tulipa), exhibit high nutritional density with protein contents reaching up to 65 g/100 g dry matter for bloody cockle and significant zinc levels (up to 90 mg/100 g dry matter in oysters). However, certain artisanal processing methods result in excessive sodium concentrations (30 g/100 g dry matter), while microbiological analyses reveal high E. coli contamination at some sites, notably Niodior, even in products processed using 'improved' methods. Heavy metal levels remain generally low and below regulatory thresholds. The study highlights the potential of these bivalves as functional and nutraceutical foods but underscores the need for standardized processing methods to ensure food safety and enhance the value of local resources sustainably.
Analysis of the Impact of River Erosion in the Saloum Delta: The Case of the Mar Islands (Fatick, Senegal)
A study of the Saloum Delta reveals significant coastal erosion and groundwater salinization risks, particularly around the Mar Islands. Research shows that shoreline retreat rates reach up to -0.96 meters per year on the concave banks, driven by hydrodynamic energy concentration and sediment supply deficits. Conversely, convex banks experience low-energy sedimentation. While deep Paleocene and Maastrichtian aquifers provide primary water sources, they face high mineralization and fluoride levels exceeding drinking standards. The findings highlight the vulnerability of the delta's estuarine systems to both natural and human-induced pressures, emphasizing the need for integrated management of water and coastal resources.
Chemical composition and antioxidant properties of selected mangrove species from the Sine Saloum Delta (Senegal) using UHPLC-MS/MS and molecular networking
A comprehensive analysis of mangrove species from the Saloum Delta in Senegal reveals significant antioxidant potential, particularly in Laguncularia racemosa and Conocarpus erectus, which exhibit higher phenolic content and stronger free radical scavenging activity compared to Avicennia germinans. Using UHPLC-MS/MS combined with molecular networking, researchers identified 153 metabolites, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, hydrolysable tannins, and terpenoids. On-line DPPH and ABTS assays pinpointed key antioxidants like ellagic acid and quercetin glycosides, underscoring the chemical richness of these mangroves. This study advances the understanding of West African mangrove biodiversity and highlights their potential as sources of bioactive natural products for pharmacological applications.
Children at Work and Play. Observations from the Khovsgol Province, Mongolia, the Saloum Delta, Senegal and Mutitjulu, Central Australia
Children in traditional societies, including the Saloum Delta, Senegal, play a significant role in economic and social structures from around six years old, contributing to subsistence tasks while maintaining a balance with their developmental needs. This study highlights how children in non-Western economies are integrated into adult work, often using adult tools within flexible frameworks that accommodate their limitations. Unlike Western cultures where child labor is less common, these societies emphasize role-playing and environmental knowledge acquisition, treating children as integral members of economic activities. The research draws from informal observations during fieldwork in Mongolia, Senegal, and Australia, revealing striking parallels across different cultural contexts.
Contribution to mangrove restoration efforts in the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve: the case of the Gandoule marine protected area
Mangrove degradation in the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve, particularly within the Gandoule Marine Protected Area (AMPG), has been identified as a significant concern, with 18% of surveyed respondents noting deterioration since the 1970s. This study highlights that local populations and AMPG staff are the primary drivers of mangrove restoration efforts, accounting for 96% and 83% of responses, respectively. Restoration strategies include biological reintroduction, protection measures, and regular monitoring, which together represent 8% of the management rules. Soil sample analysis revealed uniform physicochemical properties across all 20 samples analyzed. The research underscores the critical role of community involvement and structured management in mitigating mangrove degradation, offering actionable insights for conservation strategies.
Diversity of Fishery Resources in Mangrove Ecosystems: Case of Saloum Delta in Senegal
A significant decline in fishery resources within the Saloum Delta, Senegal, has been attributed to overexploitation, habitat degradation, and climate change. The study, conducted from 2020 to 2022, recorded a decrease in species richness and abundance, with biomass dropping from 11.81±11.54kg in 2020 to 3.97±2.36kg in 2022. Fish length also decreased significantly over the study period, indicating worsening conditions for marine life. The research used beach seine catches at six sites within the Gandoule Marine Protected Area, identifying 58 species with notable spatio-temporal variations in diversity and biomass.
Management Effectiveness Evaluation of the Saloum Delta National Park Using the Integrated Management Effectiveness Tool (IMET), Senegal, West Africa
A management effectiveness evaluation of the Saloum Delta National Park (PNDS), Senegal, reveals progress but persistent challenges. Using the Integrated Management Effectiveness Tool (IMET) over three cycles (2020–2025), PNDS achieved an overall index of 55.65% in 2025, showing improvement in Planning (64.6%) and Outcomes and Impacts (63.0%), while Inputs (46.7%) and Outputs (44.7%) remained weakest. The study highlights a U-shaped trajectory, masking continuous deterioration in Context despite progress in other areas. Comparative analysis with Niokolo-Koba National Park (PNNK) and Langue de Barbarie National Park (PNLB) placed PNDS within a satisfactory range but underscored common weaknesses in Inputs across all three parks. This research emphasizes the need for resource security, program strengthening, and adaptive management to address ecosystem pressures effectively.
Distribution and diversity of commercial mollusc species at shallow depths in the Saloum delta, Senegal
A study on the Saloum Delta, Senegal, reveals that Senilia senilis is the dominant commercial mollusc species, with significant spatial and temporal variations in abundance influenced by environmental factors. The research, conducted across 17 stations in five villages during both harvesting and biological rest periods (2019–2020), identified 21 species from 19 families, highlighting higher species richness in Niodior and Sangomar. Diversity metrics indicated a high overall diversity with a few dominant species, emphasizing the importance of biological rest for sustaining shellfish populations. The findings suggest that integrating effective management strategies with existing conservation measures could improve shellfish stock sustainability in the Saloum Islands.
Economic Assessment of Ecosystem Services Provided by the Sangomar Marine Protected Area in the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve (Fatick, Senegal)
The Sangomar Marine Protected Area (AMPS) in Senegal's Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve provides ecosystem services valued at approximately 2,808 billion FCFA, with regulating services contributing the most (61.87%). The study identified 19 key services, including nursery habitats, soil formation, and water cycle regulation, highlighting their critical roles for stakeholders such as fishermen, carters, and women processing forest products. This economic assessment offers a decision-making tool to underscore the AMPS's importance among local communities and policymakers, bridging gaps in public perception of its value.
Hysicochemical properties of the soil and climatic factors linked to the dynamics of mangrove degradation in the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve: case of the Palmarin Community Nature Reserve, Senegal
Mangrove degradation in the Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve, Senegal, is linked to distinct physicochemical soil properties and land cover dynamics. Research reveals that mudflats exhibit significantly higher carbon (4–5 times) and organic matter (4–5 times) abundance compared to mangrove peripheries and tannes, with a p-value of 0.027. Nitrogen levels are also notably higher in mangrove peripheries than in tannes, while the C/N ratio is 1.6–2.7 times greater in mudflats. A diachronic land use study from 1992 to 2022 identified positive correlations for mangroves and mudflats but a negative one for tannes. These findings highlight critical soil and climatic factors influencing mangrove degradation, offering insights into ecosystem resilience under climate change.
Local Perceptions of Ecosystem Services Provided by Forest and Mangrove Ecosystems in the Saloum Delta National Park, Senegal
A study on the Saloum Delta National Park (SDNP) in Senegal reveals that local communities highly value 21 ecosystem services, with aesthetics and erosion protection being the most recognized. Mangrove ecosystems, particularly Rhizophora mangle, are more widely used than forests, underscoring their critical role in local livelihoods. The research, based on surveys of 103 individuals across seven villages, highlights the need for sustainable management practices to ensure the continued provision of these services. Occupation and location influence the diversity of ecosystem service use, pointing to the importance of participatory approaches in resource management.
Modelling Woody Vegetation Suitability in Saloum Delta Ramsar Site (West-Africa): Implications for Conservation and Land Restoration
A study on the Saloum Delta Ramsar Site reveals that salinity is the most significant environmental driver affecting woody vegetation, particularly mangroves. Using Species Distribution Models (SDMs) and machine learning techniques like Random Forest, MaxEnt, and Generalized Linear Models (GLM), researchers analyzed relationships between vegetation occurrence data and environmental predictors such as climate, soil properties, anthropogenic factors, and natural disturbances. The findings indicate substantial potential for ecosystem restoration, with the smallest gap observed in mangroves (3.47%) compared to other woody covers like Close Woodlands, Open Woodlands, and Plantations. This research provides critical insights for sustainable land management, regreening policies, and biodiversity conservation strategies in West Africa's coastal regions.
Phosphogypsum and Organic Matter: Sustainable Solution for the Rehabilitation of Saline Lands in the Saloum Delta, Senegal
A sustainable solution for rehabilitating saline lands in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, has been demonstrated through the use of phosphogypsum combined with organic matter such as cow dung, groundnut shell, and poultry manure. This innovative approach significantly reduced soil salinity, upgrading abandoned rice fields from extremely saline (electrical conductivity > 2000 μS/cm) to non-saline (< 500 μS/cm). The technique led to impressive rice yields, averaging 6.17 tons per hectare for the variety Sahel 108, with a total estimated production of 357.58 tons across 58 hectares. The study highlights the potential of this method to recover decades-old abandoned lands, emphasizing the need for widespread adoption and capacity-building among local stakeholders.
Reproductive Biology of Uca tangeri (Eydoux, 1835) in the Saloum Delta National Park (Senegal): Sex Ratio, Sexual Maturity, and Fecundity
Research on Uca tangeri, a fiddler crab species, in Senegal's Saloum Delta National Park reveals a male-biased sex ratio (1.21:1) that deviates significantly from parity, with males reaching sexual maturity earlier than females. The study, conducted over 12 months across three stations, also demonstrates seasonal variations in fecundity, peaking during the rainy season. These findings highlight the crab's reproductive dynamics, providing critical insights for conservation efforts and sustainable management of this UNESCO-listed wetland ecosystem.
Social Enterprise Model Canvas and economic evaluation of an oyster farming project for poverty alleviation among women oyster farmers in the Saloum Delta, Senegal
A financially sustainable oyster farming model for the Saloum Delta, Senegal, demonstrates that poverty alleviation among women farmers is achievable through integrated suspended cultivation of Magallana gigas and Crassostrea tulipa. The model, evaluated using a Social Enterprise Model Canvas and economic-financial analysis (5% discount rate), requires an initial investment of €572,000 but generates 26 direct jobs with positive cash flow. Profitability hinges on diversified marketing—combining live oysters and dried meat—while exclusive dried meat production proves unviable. This replicable approach aligns with Senegalese aquaculture development goals, offering a scalable solution for poverty reduction while ensuring financial viability under the zero NPV criterion.
Spatio-Temporal and Bathymetric Variability in the Intensity of Crassostrea tulipa Spat Collection in the Village of Niodior (Saloum Delta, Senegal)
Spat collection of the mangrove oyster Crassostrea tulipa is significantly more intense during the rainy season and is optimized by alternately submerged collectors, which yield up to 53 spats per cup compared to just 2 for permanently submerged ones. This enhanced collection rate is attributed to reduced predation and marine fouling due to exposure at low tide. The study, conducted in the Saloum Delta (Senegal) over a year, also found that site-specific bathymetric conditions influence spat collection, with Baobab Rasta performing better for permanently submerged collectors, while Akat proved superior for alternately submerged ones. These findings highlight the potential for modernizing oyster farming techniques in Senegal and West Africa to mitigate overexploitation of natural stocks.
Dynamique spatio-temporelle de la mangrove du Parc National du Delta du Saloum (PNDS), Sénégal.
The Saloum Delta mangrove, a critical socio-economic and ecological asset, has shown remarkable stability despite gradual regression over 14 years (2008–2022), losing -7.47% of its area to tidal flats (tannes) and urban expansion. While anthropogenic activities—such as wood extraction, shrimp harvesting, and fishing—were identified as minor drivers, natural factors were deemed more influential in ecosystem degradation. The study, combining Landsat 7/8 satellite imagery analysis with supervised classification (QGIS) and socio-economic surveys, revealed three key actor groups and highlighted community-led mangrove restoration efforts. These findings underscore the need for further research on natural influences shaping the mangrove's trajectory.
Histological Study of the Sex Ratio and Reproductive Cycle of the Mangrove Oyster Crassostrea tulipa (Lamarck, 1819) in the Saloum Delta (Senegal)
A histological study of the mangrove oyster Crassostrea tulipa in Senegal's Saloum Delta reveals a skewed sex ratio favoring females (1:2.85) and continuous, asynchronous reproduction with peak spawning during warmer months. Researchers analyzed monthly samples of 30 oysters over 13 months using histological techniques, including staining and microscopic examination. The findings suggest that C. tulipa exhibits year-round reproductive activity, with higher frequencies of spawning individuals in the warm season. These insights are critical for informing sustainable management and aquaculture practices for this socioeconomically valuable species in West Africa.
Spatial and Seasonal Variations in the Size-Weight Relationship and Condition Index of the Mangrove Oyster Crassostrea tulipa (Lamarck, 1819) in the Saloum Delta, Senegal
A study on the mangrove oyster Crassostrea tulipa in Senegal's Saloum Delta reveals significant spatial and seasonal variations in its condition index (CI), with values peaking during the hot season and dipping during transitions. The research, spanning 2021–2022, analyzed over 26,790 oysters, finding a minority allometry (b = 2.54) and strong weight-shell height correlation (r = 0.88). These insights are critical for sustainable management of the species, which faces declining wild stocks due to human pressure and mangrove degradation.
Biometric Characteristics and Condition Index of the Mangrove Oyster Crassostrea tulipa Lamarck, 1819 in the Interface Ecosystems of the Saloum Delta in Senegal: Case of the Commune of Dionewar
The mangrove oyster Crassostrea tulipa in Senegal's Saloum Delta exhibits signs of overexploitation, with size distributions peaking at 30–40 mm and a condition index averaging 11.47% across five monitoring stations. Monthly sampling from January 2021 to January 2022 revealed minimal variations in size-weight relationships (allometry coefficient: 2.57) but significant fluctuations in oyster health, peaking in March (12.97%) and declining to a low in November (9.85%). These findings suggest that C. tulipa is under severe anthropic pressure, warranting urgent sustainable management strategies. The study highlights March as the optimal month for oyster collection due to peak condition indices.
Comparative and Prospective Evaluation of the Carbon Potential of the Mangrove of the Sine-Saloum Delta (Senegal) from 2016 to 2021
A significant decline of 80% in the carbon potential of mangroves in Senegal's Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve was observed over five years (2016–2021), with projections indicating a further 94% reduction in annual stock by 2026. The study, part of the PRECEMA project monitoring, applied the 'afforestation and reforestation' method to assess carbon storage dominated by Rhizophora racemosa. Findings reveal a young stand (average diameter: 3.9 cm) with skewed growth patterns, highlighting vulnerability to climate change and ecosystem degradation. Projections suggest a critical gap between assessed and projected carbon stocks, emphasizing urgent conservation needs for this UNESCO-listed site.
Perspective Chapter: Mangrove Deforestation and Sustainability of Malacological Resource Exploitation in the Estuarine Ecosystem of the Saloum River Delta, Senegal
The Saloum Delta's mangrove ecosystem, a vital component of the estuary's trophic enrichment, has undergone significant degradation due to environmental stressors and human activities over the past three decades. This degradation has profoundly altered its hydrological and biogeochemical functioning, leading to a substantial decline in marine mollusk stocks—oysters, ark, and cymbium—which are primarily harvested by adult women representing over 95% of stakeholders. The study highlights that these changes threaten the sustainability of malacological resource exploitation, which supports local livelihoods through diverse uses such as construction, food, and aviculture. The research underscores the urgent need for sustainable management practices to preserve this fragile ecosystem, given its ecological importance within the UNESCO-listed Sine-Saloum region.
Reproductive Biology of Chelon dumerili (Steindachner, 1870) in Saloum Delta, Senegal (West Africa)
A study on the reproductive biology of Chelon dumerili (Mugilidae) in Senegal's Saloum Delta revealed that females outnumber males significantly, with a sex ratio favoring females at 61.67%. The species' peak reproductive period was identified as March to May, based on gonadal maturation stages and the gonado-somatic index. Males reached sexual maturity at a smaller size (23.6 cm) compared to females (24.5 cm). These findings provide critical insights for sustainable management of this understudied resource in the Sangomar Marine Protected Area.
Saltwater intrusion and climate change impact on coastal agriculture
Saltwater intrusion, exacerbated by climate change and droughts, poses severe threats to coastal agriculture, particularly in river deltas like the Po Delta (Italy) and Mekong Delta. This process impairs plant growth, reduces soil microbial activity, and lowers crop productivity due to increased salinity from marine water inland flow. The study identifies saltwater intrusion as a critical challenge for sustainable agricultural development, historical heritage preservation, and socio-economic stability in these regions. It also explores potential mitigation solutions to address this growing issue.
Climate change, migrations, and the peopling of sine-Saloum mangroves (Senegal) in the past 6000 years
A significant migration of shell-fishing populations to the Sine-Saloum mangrove Delta, Senegal, occurred around 2000 years ago, coinciding with the end of a prolonged aridification phase and the rise of trans-Saharan trade. This study reconstructs human demography and shell fishing activity over the past 6000 years using radiocarbon dating from archaeological shell middens. Findings indicate two distinct migration waves (200–400 CE and 600–800 CE), likely driven by climate stress and political upheaval, with peak activity around 1700 years ago. The Delta's abandonment in the early 15th century may reflect unsustainable resource use or regional destabilization, followed by a new settlement phase led by the Manding Guelwars, aligning with oral traditions.
Effect of Environmental Parameters on the Reproduction of the White Mullet (Mugil curema, Valenciennes, 1836) in the Saloum Delta (Senegal)
A study on the white mullet (Mugil curema) in Senegal's Saloum Delta reveals that reproduction peaks in April, May, and June, with males reaching sexual maturity at a smaller size (220 mm) than females (226 mm). The research analyzed 406 individuals, finding a female-dominated sex ratio. Environmental parameters significantly influence reproductive timing, offering insights for sustainable fisheries management in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Monthly sampling using surface drift nets provided data on morphometric traits and gonadal development.
Seagrasses of West Africa: New Discoveries, Distribution Limits and Prospects for Management
Researchers have documented extensive meadows of Zostera noltei at the Saloum Delta, Senegal, marking the species' new southernmost distribution limit. This discovery, part of a broader seagrass initiative in West Africa—one of the least studied regions globally—identified four seagrass species across seven countries, covering approximately 62,108 hectares. The study also examined seagrass morphology and identified key stressors while proposing conservation strategies to protect these newly documented meadows. The findings provide a critical baseline for monitoring spatial and temporal changes in seagrass extent and health, offering valuable tools for management and research.
Characterization and Risk Assessment of the Collapse of the Woody Stand of Ecosystems of the Fathala Forest (Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve-Senegal)
The Fathala Forest within Senegal's Saloum Delta Biosphere Reserve is critically endangered, with its woody plant formations deteriorating at alarming rates due to anthropogenic pressures and climate change. Research reveals a collapse rate of -6 individuals per hectare annually in gallery forests and -4 in clear forests, along with a cover loss of -3.75% and -2.9%, respectively. The study identified 56 woody species across 22 families, with higher density in unfenced areas (369 ind/ha in clear forest vs. 160 ind/ha in fenced areas). Using IUCN red list criteria and dendrometric methods, the research highlights a shift from Sudanese forest to wooded savannah, threatening species like the Red colobus. These findings underscore urgent conservation needs for this UNESCO-listed ecosystem.
La population d’Avicennia germinans du delta du Saloum est-elle relictuelle depuis la dernière période humide ?
Research indicates that the population of Avicennia germinans mangroves in Senegal's Saloum Delta may be a relictual remnant from the hyper-humid period (1950–1967), rather than a naturally regenerating species. The study, based on two botanical surveys conducted 15 years apart and experiments on propagule floatation under varying salinities, found that normal reproduction in this region has been suppressed since the late 20th century due to increased salinity exceeding thresholds of 20‰ or annual precipitation below 1,000 mm. Unlike neighboring regions with stable conditions, Saloum's mangroves have struggled to regenerate without external intervention, suggesting prior research may have misrepresented baseline conditions.
Mapping Mangrove Zonation Changes in Senegal with Landsat Imagery Using an OBIA Approach Combined with Linear Spectral Unmixing
Mangrove areas in Senegal have expanded over the past two decades, but zonation dynamics vary significantly between the Saloum Delta and Casamance Estuary. The study reveals that while Rhizophora mangle thrives and reproduces effectively across both regions, Avicennia germinans struggles with reproduction, potentially limiting mangrove colonization in upper tidal zones of the Saloum. This research employed a novel method combining Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) with linear spectral unmixing using high-resolution Landsat imagery to track these changes with high accuracy (kappa indices of 0.8 and 0.83). The findings suggest that conservation efforts should prioritize reforestation in the Saloum Delta, focusing on Avicennia germinans to address long-term regeneration gaps, rather than in Casamance where colonization is already underway.
The perceptions of stakeholders on current management of mangroves in the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal
Mangrove management in the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal, faces significant challenges due to divergent stakeholder perceptions. A study using Q methodology identified three distinct viewpoints: 'Official,' 'Happy Villagers,' and 'Unhappy Villagers.' While all discourses agree on the need for improvements, they disagree on the specific changes required. The 'Official' discourse emphasizes fragmented management, while 'Happy Villagers' acknowledge progress but highlight imbalances. Conversely, 'Unhappy Villagers' express dissatisfaction with current efforts, attributing responsibility to external actors rather than local communities. This polarization underscores the need for clear guidelines to define roles in participatory decentralized resource management, offering opportunities for sustainable interventions while addressing contentious topics.
Impact of soil salinity on mangrove restoration in a semiarid region: a case study from the Saloum Delta, Senegal
Mangrove restoration efforts in semiarid regions face significant challenges due to soil salinity, with red mangroves (Rhizophora mangle) showing severe reductions in growth and survival at salinities above 60 ppt. This study highlights that such conditions severely impair stomatal conductance, photosystem II efficiency, and seedling survival after 1–3 years. In contrast, black mangroves (Avicennia germinans) thrive in exceptionally hypersaline environments (90 ppt), representing some of the most saline vegetated ecosystems on Earth. The research, conducted in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, provides critical insights for improving species selection in coastal wetland restoration projects to enhance their success rates.
Diet and Foraging Range of Slender-Billed Gulls Chroicocephalus genei Breeding in the Saloum Delta, Senegal
A significant shift in the diet of Slender-billed Gulls (Chroicocephalus genei), a vulnerable species with a restricted breeding range, was observed in the Saloum Delta National Park, Senegal. The study found that while cichlids remained a dominant component, the proportion of mugilid fish in their diet increased markedly between 2000 and 2015. GPS tracking of three individuals in 2014 revealed extensive foraging ranges, with gulls covering up to 96 km daily and utilizing diverse habitats such as mangrove-bordered lagoons, salt pans, creeks, rivers, abandoned rice fields, and the Atlantic coast near a fishing village in The Gambia. Individual foraging behaviors varied significantly, highlighting the need for targeted conservation strategies that account for species-specific ecological requirements.
Défis et stratégies d’autonomisation foncière en contexte de changement climatique chez les jeunes du delta du Saloum (Sénégal)
In the Saloum Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with high biodiversity but increasing vulnerability to climate change, land scarcity has become a pressing issue. Young people face significant challenges in accessing land due to economic constraints and sociocultural barriers, which exacerbate their exclusion from this critical resource. This study highlights that while young individuals harbor strong aspirations for land ownership, their ability to translate these into practices is hindered by systemic factors. The research contrasts the aspirations and real-world strategies of youth, revealing a gap between potential and actual land access. By employing qualitative methods, including interviews and case studies, the authors provide insights into how social norms, economic pressures, and environmental changes shape land tenure dynamics in this fragile ecosystem.
Land cover changes on the West-African coastline from the Saloum Delta (Senegal) to Rio Geba (Guinea-Bissau) between 1979 and 2015
Between the late 1970s and mid-2010s, wooded areas along the West African coastline from Senegal's Saloum Delta to Guinea-Bissau's Rio Geba expanded by 2% in mangroves and 3.5% on dry land, driven primarily by mangrove growth—particularly pronounced in recent decades. This net increase masks significant regressions offset by even greater progressions, with dynamic sectors outpacing stable ones. The study employed LANDSAT TM imagery and undirected classification techniques, enhanced by Principal Component Analysis to refine radiometric contrasts and reclassify misallocated pixels, revealing complex land cover dynamics over 36 years.
Usages et conservation des communs en contexte de changement climatique dans le delta du Saloum au Sénégal
Successful management of shared resources in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, demonstrates resilience against climate change through collaborative governance. This doctoral research reveals that community-led and mixed-stakeholder organizations—combining local actors, government, and NGOs—facilitate sustainable conservation of fisheries and forestry via negotiated social transactions. The 'connexity socio-institutionnelle' framework, an adaptive strategy rooted in the Niominka community’s history, enables collective action to mitigate climate vulnerabilities while sustaining biodiversity-rich delta ecosystems. Qualitative ethnographic methods, including documentary reviews, observations, and interviews, uncovered diverse discursive and factual materials, analyzed through dimensions of organization, interaction, intentionality, historicity, space, and prospective adaptation. The study underscores the critical role of inter/transdisciplinary approaches in environmental sciences to bridge psychosociological insights with ecological realities.
Atlantic humpback dolphins Sousa teuszii in the Saloum Delta (Senegal): distribution, relative abundance and photo-identification
A groundbreaking survey of Atlantic humpback dolphins (Sousa teuszii) in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, reveals the highest recorded population size for this species, estimating at least 103 individuals. Conducted over 1,617.5 km of boat-based coverage in 2015, the study documented 30 sightings, with dolphins predominantly found within 2.082 km of shore, often traveling between the Saloum and Diomboss rivers and crossing into Gambia. The relative abundance was notably higher in the Diomboss, reaching 0.331 individuals per kilometer. Photo-identification confirmed movement patterns and social dynamics, with groups averaging 9.3 animals and at least three neonate calves observed. Behavioral observations suggested a combined travel-forage strategy, with dolphins captured on camera feeding on mullet (Mugil sp.). These findings provide critical insights for the conservation and management of this endangered species within its range.
Mangrove reforestation: greening or grabbing coastal zones and deltas? Case studies in Senegal
Mangrove reforestation, while successful in expanding green coverage and gaining international visibility, often fails to enhance biological and cultural diversity or address spatial injustice. A study analyzing environmental narratives and NGO-led reforestation campaigns in Senegal's Saloum Delta and Lower Casamance between 2009 and 2013 reveals that extensive planting of a single mangrove species, Rhizophora mangle, is perceived as 'green grabbing' by local communities. Additionally, carbon tax purchases by industrial conglomerates exacerbate disempowerment. The research underscores the need for more integrated approaches to mangrove conservation, balancing ecological, cultural, and social dimensions.
Elaboration de tarifs de cubage pour le genre Rhizophora au Delta du Saloum (Sénégal)
Researchers have developed two highly accurate volume estimation models (Y2 and Y4) for Rhizophora mangrove species in the Saloum Delta, Senegal. These models, with R² values of 0.956 to 0.968, provide precise wood volume measurements critical for sustainable resource management amid growing demand and mangrove degradation. The study employed three theoretical adjustment models to derive six tariffs, ultimately recommending Y2 and Y4 due to their accuracy and validity intervals. This work addresses urgent needs for quantifying available mangrove biomass while balancing ecological conservation with population demands.
On the spatial coherence of rainfall over the Saloum delta (Senegal) from seasonal to decadal time scales
Rainfall over the Saloum Delta in Senegal exhibits significant spatial coherence, particularly during the summer monsoon season. This coherence extends across the western Sahel and, at interannual to decadal scales, reaches as far as the Red Sea, driven primarily by the zonal expansion of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). The study, which analyzed seasonal to decadal rainfall patterns, found that while winter episodic rainfall is more localized, summer monsoon rainfall shows broad consistency. This spatial coherence is influenced by sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the Pacific, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, and North Pacific. However, consistency diminishes during the onset phase of the West African Monsoon.
Spatio‐temporal isotopic signatures ( δ 13 C and δ 15 N ) reveal that two sympatric West African mullet species do not feed on the same basal production sources
A study on the Saloum Delta, Senegal, reveals that two sympatric mullet species, Mugil cephalus and Mugil curema, exhibit isotopic niche segregation despite occupying similar trophic levels. Analysis of δ13C and δ15N signatures in muscle tissues showed that while both species share comparable nitrogen isotopic compositions—indicating a shared trophic level—their distinct carbon isotopic compositions suggest they do not rely on the same basal production sources or, if they do, not in equal proportions. This finding provides the first evidence of such segregation within the Mugilidae family, offering insights into potential resource partitioning among limno-benthophageous species in hypersaline estuaries.
Production de litière de la mangrove du Parc National du Delta du Saloum (Sénégal)
Mangrove litter production varies significantly among Rhizophora species, with R. racemosa/harisonnii contributing more to ecosystem enrichment due to higher floral litter output and lower flower abortion rates compared to R. mangle. The study quantified daily litterfall at the Saloum Delta (Sénégal), revealing mean leaf production of 4.6 g/m²/day for R. racemosa/harisonnii and 4.07 g/m²/day for R. mangle, while floral litter was notably higher in R. racemosa/harisonnii (4.09 g/m²/day) than in R. mangle (0.194 g/m²/day). This suggests species-specific roles in nutrient cycling and food web dynamics within mangrove ecosystems.
Quantification de la biomasse aérienne des palétuviers du genre Rhizophora au Delta du Saloum (Sénégal)
Mangrove forests in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, exhibit significant variations in aboveground biomass depending on height strata. Research reveals that Rhizophora mangle demonstrates the highest dry biomass for trunks and other parts, while Rhizophora racemosa/harisonnii shows peak root biomass. Notably, in taller strata, root biomass surpasses trunk biomass, suggesting an adaptive morphological response to submersion and mobile sediments. The study quantified these patterns across 15 permanent plots, correlating biomass with environmental factors such as water submersion depth and soil type. Findings indicate that increased root biomass is more strongly linked to submersion levels than soil characteristics, highlighting the mangroves' resilience in dynamic coastal environments.
Exploring the Association between Water Salinity and Hypertension Prevalence: A Qualitative Study in the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal
A strong perceived link between water salinity and hypertension exists among coastal communities in the Sine-Saloum Delta, Senegal. This qualitative study reveals that residents consistently attribute their high blood pressure to consuming saline water, shaping their health-seeking behaviors and imposing economic burdens as they seek alternative freshwater sources like rainwater or bottled water. The findings underscore the need for public health strategies to address both hypertension prevention and reliable freshwater access in this region.
Salinity and Hypertension in the Sine-Saloum Delta: A Policy Analysis of Drinking Water and Public Health in Coastal Senegal
Coastal communities in Senegal's Sine-Saloum Delta face a significant public health challenge: saltwater intrusion into freshwater aquifers, which is linked to higher hypertension prevalence. Research reveals a consistent association between high sodium levels in drinking water and increased hypertension rates, yet current policies fail to integrate this environmental factor effectively. A mixed-methods analysis—combining epidemiological data with policy reviews—exposed critical gaps where water resource management lacks public health objectives, while health strategies overlook environmental determinants like salinity. The study underscores the need for intersectoral collaboration, proposing integrated solutions such as community-based interventions for rainwater harvesting and dietary education to reduce sodium intake. This work highlights the urgent necessity of addressing environmental health risks in vulnerable coastal regions through coordinated policy action.
Reconstitution des variations multidécennales et saisonnières de la mousson ouest-africaine au cours des deux derniers millénaires à partir de l’étude sclérochronologique des amas coquilliers fossiles dans le delta du Saloum, Sénégal.
A groundbreaking study reveals that the West African Monsoon (WAM) experienced significantly wetter conditions from 460 to 1090 A.D., with rainfall seasons lasting approximately five months—nearly double the current duration. This finding challenges modern climate perceptions and was uncovered through sclerochronological analysis of fossil shell mounds in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, a region highly sensitive to WAM variations. Researchers leveraged isotopic signatures (δ18O, δ13C) from the bivalve Anadara senilis to reconstruct hydrological changes with unprecedented precision, capturing seasonal shifts as small as 25 days. The study also indicates that winter and spring rains, rare today, were more frequent during this period, extending the monsoon season and increasing the precipitation-evaporation balance. This work highlights A. senilis as a high-resolution paleoclimatic archive, offering critical insights into past hydrological cycles in West Africa.
Rôles des mangroves, modes et perspectives de gestion au Delta du Saloum (Sénégal)
Mangroves in the Saloum Delta, Senegal, play critical ecological and socioeconomic roles but face significant threats from environmental changes and mismanagement. This study highlights their vulnerability to degradation, which disrupts essential functions such as spawning grounds, habitats, and ecological niches. Socioeconomically, mangroves serve as a lifeline for coastal communities, yet divergent interests among stakeholders complicate conservation efforts. Challenges include fragmented sectorial management, lack of harmonized protection measures, and the absence of localized codes of conduct. The research underscores the need for integrated management strategies, including the transfer of fishing competencies to local actors, development of forest management plans, and promotion of cross-border cogestion to align ecological and sociocultural continuity.
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