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The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon investigation of the historic Grand Baobab of Mahajanga. The largest African baobab of Madagascar exhibits a cluster structure, which consists of 6 fused ordinary stems and of 3 small binding stems. Two samples were collected from the largest stem and from a primary branch, out of which several tiny segments were extracted and dated by radiocarbon. The oldest dated sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 214 ± 17 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 265 ± 25 calendar years. The dating results indicate that the Grand Baobab of Mahajanga is 275 ± 25 years old.

The article discloses the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the Egg baobab, a superlative Grandidier baobab (Adansonia grandidieri) from the Andomiry Forest, Atsimo-Andrefana region, Madagascar. The investigation of the baobab shows that it consists of 5 perfectly fused stems and exhibits a closed ring-shaped structure with a very large false cavity inside. The calculated overall wood volume of the Egg baobab is 450 m3. Two wood samples were collected from the exterior of the stems, out of which nine tiny segments were extracted and dated by radiocarbon. The oldest sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 921 ± 24 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 840 ± 25 years. According to this value the Egg baobab is 875 ± 75 years old.

The Omusati region belongs to historic Ovamboland, an area of northern Namibia populated by tribes of the Ovambo group. Four very large African baobabs of Omusati played an important role in historic events of the area, such as the tribal wars and the Namibian War of Independence. The four historic baobabs are the Ombalantu baobab (8 stems; circumference 24.50 m), Okahao baobab (4+ stems; around 25 m), Amadhila baobab (12 stems; 25.35 m) and Sir Howard baobab (9 stems; 31.60 m). Two historic baobabs collapsed totally or partially. The stems of the Amadhila baobab toppled and died in 2021, while 3 stems of the Okahao baobab collapsed a long time ago, but are still alive. Our research aimed to determine the architecture and age of these baobabs. Three baobabs (Ombalantu, Amadhila, Sir Howard) exhibit a closed ring-shaped structure, with a false cavity inside. One baobab (Okahao) had an open ring-shaped structure, before its collapse. Several wood cores were extracted from the baobabs and investigated by radiocarbon dating. The dating results indicate ages of 770 ± 50 years for the Ombalantu baobab, 650 ± 50 years for the Okahao baobab, 1100 ± 50 years for the Amadhila baobab and 750 ± 50 years for the Sir Howard baobab.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2021. This article is posted here by permission of Studia Chemia for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Studia Universitatis Babes: Bolyai Chemia, 66(1), 153-163, http://dx.doi.org/10.24193/subbchem.2021.01.12., The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the Big baobab of Outapi, which is the largest African baobab of Outapi, Namibia. The investigation of this monumental baobab revealed that it consists of 8 fused stems, out of which 4 are false stems. The Big baobab exhibits a closed ring-shaped structure. Three stems build the ring, which is now incomplete due to previous damage to the false cavity. Three wood samples were collected from the false cavity and from the longest false stem. Seven segments were extracted from the samples and dated by radiocarbon. The oldest investigated sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 820 ± 17 BP, corresponding to a calibrated age of 780 ± 10 calendar years. According to dating results, the Big baobab of Outapi is 850 ± 50 years old., The investigation and sampling of the baobab was authorized by the Ministry of Environment and Tourism of Namibia under the Research/Collecting Permit No. 1934_2014. The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of Education and Research CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2020-2567, No. 145/2021.

The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the Big baobab of Outapi, which is the largest African baobab of Outapi, Namibia. The investigation of this monumental baobab revealed that it consists of 8 fused stems, out of which 4 are false stems. The Big baobab exhibits a closed ring-shaped structure. Three stems build the ring, which is now incomplete due to previous damage to the false cavity. Three wood samples were collected from the false cavity and from the longest false stem. Seven segments were extracted from the samples and dated by radiocarbon. The oldest investigated sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 820 ± 17 BP, corresponding to a calibrated age of 780 ± 10 calendar years. According to dating results, the Big baobab of Outapi is 850 ± 50 years old.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2020. Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai Seria Chemia is an Open Access Journal (read, download, copy, distribute, print for research use, search, or link to the full texts of articles). The definitive version was published in Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Seria Chemia 65, no. 3 (2020): 149-156, doi:10.24193/subbchem.2020.3.11., The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the Livingstone Tree, a large African baobab on the right bank of the Zambezi, near Chiramba, Mozambique. In 1858, David Livingstone, who discovered the baobab, carved his monogram on the walls of its inner cavity. In 1996, the historic baobab was uprooted when a cyclone struck the area. Several wood fragments were extracted from the remains of the toppled tree. Five samples which originate from these fragments were subsequently dated by radiocarbon. The oldest sample had a radiocarbon date of 1598 ± 17 BP, that corresponded in 1996 to a calibrated age of 1490 ± 35 calendar years. According to this value, the Livingstone Tree at Chiramba becomes one of the oldest known African baobabs, with an age of over 1500 years. The Livingstone Tree had a closed ring-shaped structure, that consisted of 4 fused stems around a false cavity and also 2 additional stems outside the ring., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of National Education CNCS-UEFISCDI under grants PN-II-ID-PCE-2013-76 and PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0776, Nr. 90/2017.

La communauté rurale de Téssékéré est à 97 % peule avec comme principale activité l'élevage extensif. La transhumance est pratiquée dans cette zone sur de petites ou grandes distances en fonction de la disponibilité du fourrage. Les enquêtes réalisées auprès des éleveurs de la localité ont permis d'identifier leurs pratiques pastorales et de recueillir leur perception sur l'état actuel de la végétation et son évolution, et les facteurs responsables de cet état. L'arbre est utilisé dans cette communauté dans l'alimentation humaine (94,3 %) et animale (94,3 %), dans la pharmacopée (82,8 %), et dans les usages domestiques comme bois de service (28,6 %) et de construction (37,14 %). Pour accéder aux différentes parties des arbres, les éleveurs pratiquent souvent la coupe ou l'élagage. Les espèces les plus exploitées sont Balanites aegyptiaca (14,3 % à 88,6 %), Calotropis procera (14,3 % à 28,6 %), Sclerocarya birrea (8,6 % à 25,7 %), Adansonia digitata (8,6 % à 20 %) selon les zones et les besoins. Une majorité d'éleveurs (51,4 %), conscients aujourd'hui de l'impact de ces pratiques sur le peuplement ligneux, a abandonné la coupe et pratique l'abaissement des branches pour nourrir le bétail.

The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the Livingstone Tree, a large African baobab on the right bank of the Zambezi, near Chiramba, Mozambique. In 1858, David Livingstone, who discovered the baobab, carved his monogram on the walls of its inner cavity. In 1996, the historic baobab was uprooted when a cyclone struck the area. Several wood fragments were extracted from the remains of the toppled tree. Five samples which originate from these fragments were subsequently dated by radiocarbon. The oldest sample had a radiocarbon date of 1598 ± 17 BP, that corresponded in 1996 to a calibrated age of 1490 ± 35 calendar years. According to this value, the Livingstone Tree at Chiramba becomes one of the oldest known African baobabs, with an age of over 1500 years. The Livingstone Tree had a closed ring-shaped structure, that consisted of 4 fused stems around a false cavity and also 2 additional stems outside the ring.

© The Author(s), 2020. This article is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License. The definitive version was published in Patrut, R. T., Patrut, A., Rakosy, D., Rakosy, L., Lowy, D. A., Von Redenf, K. F., & Bodis, J. Radiocarbon dating of Makuri Le boom, a very old African baobab from Nyae Nyae, Namibia. Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai Chemia, 65(2), (2020): 149-159, doi:10.24193/subbchem.2020.2.12., The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of Makuri Lê boom, a very large African baobab from Nyae Nyae Conservancy, Namibia. The investigation of this superlative baobab shows that it consists of 12 independent stems of different dimensions, which belong to three generations. Makuri Lê boom has an open ring-shaped structure, a type of architecture which allows baobabs to reach very large sizes and old ages. The oldest sample has a radiocarbon date of 1602 ± 17 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 1520 ± 35 calendar yr. By this value, Makuri Lê boom becomes one of the oldest dated baobabs and angiosperms with accurate dating results., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of National Education CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0776, Nr. 90/2017.

The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of Makuri Lê boom, a very large African baobab from Nyae Nyae Conservancy, Namibia. The investigation of this superlative baobab shows that it consists of 12 independent stems of different dimensions, which belong to three generations. Makuri Lê boom has an open ring-shaped structure, a type of architecture which allows baobabs to reach very large sizes and old ages. The oldest sample has a radiocarbon date of 1602 ± 17 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 1520 ± 35 calendar yr. By this value, Makuri Lê boom becomes one of the oldest dated baobabs and angiosperms with accurate dating results.

The Adansonia digitate L. known as Baobab is the only species present in West Africa and grows wild. All parts of the plant are used by humans. In Senegal, baobab pulp is widely consumed; it is used as raw material in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for making juices, concentrates, jams, powder. Drinks or juices from baobab are highly appreciated by consumers; however rapid fermentation can happen even after pasteurization that can shorten their shelf-life. A Doehlert experimental design was used to find a good scale of heat treatment ensuring a proper conservation of baobab juice. Results of the experimental design showed that a heat treatment of 80°C for 10 min gives a baobab juice with good sanitary quality that meets the international standards.

La communauté rurale de Téssékéré est à 97 % peule avec comme principale activité l'élevage extensif. La transhumance est pratiquée dans cette zone sur de petites ou grandes distances en fonction de la disponibilité du fourrage. Les enquêtes réalisées auprès des éleveurs de la localité ont permis d'identifier leurs pratiques pastorales et de recueillir leur perception sur l'état actuel de la végétation et son évolution, et les facteurs responsables de cet état. L'arbre est utilisé dans cette communauté dans l'alimentation humaine (94,3 %) et animale (94,3 %), dans la pharmacopée (82,8 %), et dans les usages domestiques comme bois de service (28,6 %) et de construction (37,14 %). Pour accéder aux différentes parties des arbres, les éleveurs pratiquent souvent la coupe ou l'élagage. Les espèces les plus exploitées sont Balanites aegyptiaca (14,3 % à 88,6 %), Calotropis procera (14,3 % à 28,6 %), Sclerocarya birrea (8,6 % à 25,7 %), Adansonia digitata (8,6 % à 20 %) selon les zones et les besoins. Une majorité d'éleveurs (51,4 %), conscients aujourd'hui de l'impact de ces pratiques sur le peuplement ligneux, a abandonné la coupe et pratique l'abaissement des branches pour nourrir le bétail.

The Adansonia digitate L. known as Baobab is the only species present in West Africa and grows wild. All parts of the plant are used by humans. In Senegal, baobab pulp is widely consumed; it is used as raw material in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for making juices, concentrates, jams, powder. Drinks or juices from baobab are highly appreciated by consumers; however rapid fermentation can happen even after pasteurization that can shorten their shelf-life. A Doehlert experimental design was used to find a good scale of heat treatment ensuring a proper conservation of baobab juice. Results of the experimental design showed that a heat treatment of 80°C for 10 min gives a baobab juice with good sanitary quality that meets the international standards.

This study aims to provide some information about the area of presence and geographical breakdown of baobabs belonging to the Adansonia digitata species on the four Comoro Islands. Two of the eight known species of baobabs in the world are present in the Comoro Islands. Whilst they have asset value, a thorough study of their geographical distribution has yet to be produced and there is very little existing action to protect and conserve the asset. An inventory of the A. digitata populations on the islands (Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan and Mayotte) and islets of the archipelago was carried out. From this, it was possible to map the geographical breakdown and analyse the spacial distribution of the baobabs. Their distribution seems to be strongly associated to their proximity to the coastline, suggesting the seeds are dispersed by marine hydrochory. The ecological status of this species based on IUCN status assessment, is known from the threats and pressures incurred and its distribution according to their ecological preferences. The species is categorized as Endangered (ER). The data from this study should contribute to improved management and conservation of the Adansonia species in the Comoros, a growing requirement in the light of concerns about anthropogenic pressure.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2019. Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai Seria Chemia is an Open Access Journal (read, download, copy, distribute, print for research use, search, or link to the full texts of articles). The definitive version was published in Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Seria Chemia , 64(2), Tom II, (2019): 411-419, doi:10.24193/subbchem.2019.2.35., The article reports the radiocarbon investigation results of the superlative African baobabs from Savé Valley, Zimbabwe. Several wood samples collected from these baobab were analysed by AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. The radiocarbon dates of the oldest samples were 1529 ± 14 BP for Matendere Big baobab, 1179 ± 19 BP for Chishakwe Big tree and 1096 ± 35 BP for Mokore Giant baobab. The corresponding calibrated ages are 1430 ± 15, 1090 ± 40 and 1020 ± 25 calendar yr. The oldest tree from Savé Valley, which we described previously, is the Humani Bedford Old baobab. The radiocarbon date of its oldest sample, 1655 ± 14 BP, corresponds to a calibrated age of 1580 ± 30 calendar yr., Authors would like to acknowledge Léon and Judy Duplessis, the owners of the Matendere Rach, Lisa-Jane Campbell of Chishakwe Ranch, Roger Whittall, the owner of the Humani Ranch and his wife Anne Whittall, Greg and Melanie Duckworth of Mokore Ranch for granting access in the ranches and for authorising the investigation and sampling of the monumental baobabs. The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of National Education CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-III-P4-ID-PCE-2016-0776, Nr. 90/2017.

The article reports the radiocarbon investigation results of the superlative African baobabs from Savé Valley, Zimbabwe. Several wood samples collected from these baobab were analysed by AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. The radiocarbon dates of the oldest samples were 1529 ± 14 BP for Matendere Big baobab, 1179 ± 19 BP for Chishakwe Big tree and 1096 ± 35 BP for Mokore Giant baobab. The corresponding calibrated ages are 1430 ± 15, 1090 ± 40 and 1020 ± 25 calendar yr. The oldest tree from Savé Valley, which we described previously, is the Humani Bedford Old baobab. The radiocarbon date of its oldest sample, 1655 ± 14 BP, corresponds to a calibrated age of 1580 ± 30 calendar yr.

Adansonia digitata L. (African baobab) provides a wide range of market products in Niger. These products are highly important in the traditional dishes and are also a cultural asset for the Nigerien households. The main objective of this study is to assess the local consumers’ preferences for marketed baobab products and to infer key elements in order to design conservation strategies at local and national levels. A total of 432 consumers were surveyed in eight rural and four urban markets in Niger. Results from a contingent valuation application show that 61% of the consumers are willing to pay a mean of 24.7% above the current market prices. These funds would favor the implementation of a conservation and improvement program for assuring the availability of baobab products in the market and conserving the baobab resources. Promoting health and food security based on the development of these products will likely also play a role in favoring the conservation of the species.

This study aims to provide some information about the area of presence and geographical breakdown of baobabs belonging to the Adansonia digitata species on the four Comoro Islands. Two of the eight known species of baobabs in the world are present in the Comoro Islands. Whilst they have asset value, a thorough study of their geographical distribution has yet to be produced and there is very little existing action to protect and conserve the asset. An inventory of the A. digitata populations on the islands (Grande Comore, Mohéli, Anjouan and Mayotte) and islets of the archipelago was carried out. From this, it was possible to map the geographical breakdown and analyse the spacial distribution of the baobabs. Their distribution seems to be strongly associated to their proximity to the coastline, suggesting the seeds are dispersed by marine hydrochory. The ecological status of this species based on IUCN status assessment, is known from the threats and pressures incurred and its distribution according to their ecological preferences. The species is categorized as Endangered (ER). The data from this study should contribute to improved management and conservation of the Adansonia species in the Comoros, a growing requirement in the light of concerns about anthropogenic pressure.

Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) is a wild plant, with various uses. The leaves and the pulp from the fruit and plant are staple food for many populations in Africa, most especially in the central region of the continent. The seeds are rich in oil and protein content. In addition, the seeds have been reported to have many nutritional and medicinal benefits. However, the seeds are not widely/fully utilized for their application in the food industries. Attention on the baobab plant has always been on the fruit pulp and leaves, while the seeds have always been over looked despite the high mono and polyunsaturated fatty acid and antioxidant present in the oil and high lysine content in the protein from the seed. Studying the physical and chemical, as well as the functional properties of the oil and protein extracted from the seed will be a step forward in cooperating the oil and protein into our food system. In view of the foregoing, this study presents the characterization of the oil and protein isolate and fractions (albumin, globulin, glutelin and prolamin) extracted from the seed; modification of the oil by blending with other vegetable oils to improve its application in the food industry. The effect of egg yolk substitution with protein isolate extracted from the defatted seed of baobab on the properties of mayonnaise is also investigated. The oil was extracted from baobab seed using two different methods: Soxhlet extraction (SE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). Results showed that, despite extraction for only 2 h, UAE yielded 18.7% crude oil, representing nearly 81% of the yield obtained with SE. Quality indices such as free fatty acid content 7.92% (SE) and 6.87% (UAE), peroxide value 3.13 meq O2/kg (SE) and 3.20 meq O2/kg (UAE) and oxidative stability 6.85 h (SE) and 6.96 h (UAE), and other physicochemical properties such as fatty acid composition, triacylglycerol profile, thermal behaviour and solid fat content of both oils were comparable. Oleic, linole

Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) is a wild plant, with various uses. The leaves and the pulp from the fruit and plant are staple food for many populations in Africa, most especially in the central region of the continent. The seeds are rich in oil and protein content. In addition, the seeds have been reported to have many nutritional and medicinal benefits. However, the seeds are not widely/fully utilized for their application in the food industries. Attention on the baobab plant has always been on the fruit pulp and leaves, while the seeds have always been over looked despite the high mono and polyunsaturated fatty acid and antioxidant present in the oil and high lysine content in the protein from the seed. Studying the physical and chemical, as well as the functional properties of the oil and protein extracted from the seed will be a step forward in cooperating the oil and protein into our food system. In view of the foregoing, this study presents the characterization of the oil and protein isolate and fractions (albumin, globulin, glutelin and prolamin) extracted from the seed; modification of the oil by blending with other vegetable oils to improve its application in the food industry. The effect of egg yolk substitution with protein isolate extracted from the defatted seed of baobab on the properties of mayonnaise is also investigated. The oil was extracted from baobab seed using two different methods: Soxhlet extraction (SE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). Results showed that, despite extraction for only 2 h, UAE yielded 18.7% crude oil, representing nearly 81% of the yield obtained with SE. Quality indices such as free fatty acid content 7.92% (SE) and 6.87% (UAE), peroxide value 3.13 meq O2/kg (SE) and 3.20 meq O2/kg (UAE) and oxidative stability 6.85 h (SE) and 6.96 h (UAE), and other physicochemical properties such as fatty acid composition, triacylglycerol profile, thermal behaviour and solid fat content of both oils were comparable. Oleic, linole

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2017. This article is posted here by permission of Studia Chemia for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Seria Chemia 62, no. 1 (2017): 111-120, doi:10.24193/subbchem.2017.1.09., The article presents the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the baobab of Warang, Senegal. The investigation of the baobab revealed that it consists of 18 partially fused stems, which represents the largest number of stems reported for an African baobab. Three stems build the ring that closes a false cavity, while 15 stems grow outside the ring. Seven wood samples were collected from the false cavity and from the outer part of other stems. The dating results evinced that the stems belong to four different generations, out of which the first generation is around 500 years old. We also documented the presence of false stems, which emerge from a large adjacent stem, are triangular in horizontal section and act as an anchor. The baobab of Warang possesses 12 ordinary stems and 6 false stems., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of National Education CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-II-ID-PCE-2013-76.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2017. This article is posted here by permission of Studia Chemia for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Seria Chemia 62, no. 2, Tom 2 (2017): 347-354, doi:10.24193/subbchem.2017.2.27., The article discloses the main results of our new investigation of Platland tree, a.k.a. Sunland baobab, the largest known African baobab. Our recent research was motivated by the three successive splits of 2016 and 2017, which determined the collapse and demise of the stems that have built the main unit of the tree. According to our new findings concerning the architecture of large and old baobabs, we established that Platland tree has a double closed-ring shaped structure and consists of two units/rings that close two separate false cavities. The larger unit was composed of five fused stems, out of which four toppled and died, while the fifth stem is already broken. The smaller unit, which is still standing, consists of three fused stems. We also determined that the larger unit had an age of 800 yr, while the smaller unit is 1100 yr old., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of Scientific Research CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-II-ID-PCE-2013-76.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2016. This article is posted here by permission of Studia Chemia for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Studia Chemia 2016, no. 4 (2016): 7-20., The article reports the radiocarbon investigation results of the Humani Bedford baobab, an old African baobab from Savé Valley, Zimbabwe. Two wood samples were collected from the large inner cavity. Several segments were extracted from these samples and analysed by AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. We found that the age values of segments increase with the distance into the wood. This major anomaly is characteristic to multi-stemmed baobabs with a closed ring-shaped structure and a false cavity inside. The investigation of the Humani Bedford baobab evinced that the baobab consists of three fused stems. The fourth stem of the ring is missing. The oldest dated segment was found to have a radiocarbon date of 1655 ± 14 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 1575 ± 30 yr. The dating results show that the stems which build the ring stopped growing toward the false cavity more than 600 yr ago. By considering the position of the oldest segment in the investigated stem, we concluded that the Humani Bedford baobab is around 1800 yr old. According to our dating results, the Humani Bedford baobab becomes the oldest living African baobab., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of National Education CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-II-ID-PCE-2013-76.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2017. This article is posted here by permission of Studia Chemia for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai, Seria Chemia 62, no. 2, Tom 2 (2017): 355-364, doi:10.24193/subbchem.2017.2.28., The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of Sagole Big tree, a giant African baobab from Limpopo, South Africa. Several wood samples were collected from the walls of its inner cavity and dated by radiocarbon. The age values along the cavity samples increase with the distance into the wood. This anomaly shows that the cavity is a false one. The oldest sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 781 ± 29 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 740 ± 15 yr. We estimate that the oldest part of the Sagole baobab has an age of 800-900 yr. We determined that the tree has a closed ring-shaped structure, which consists of a large unit with six fused stems and of two additional leaning stems., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of Scientific Research CNCSUEFISCDI under grant PN-II-ID-PCE-2013-76.

The article reports the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of Sagole Big tree, a giant African baobab from Limpopo, South Africa. Several wood samples were collected from the walls of its inner cavity and dated by radiocarbon. The age values along the cavity samples increase with the distance into the wood. This anomaly shows that the cavity is a false one. The oldest sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 781 ± 29 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 740 ± 15 yr. We estimate that the oldest part of the Sagole baobab has an age of 800-900 yr. We determined that the tree has a closed ring-shaped structure, which consists of a large unit with six fused stems and of two additional leaning stems.

The article discloses the main results of our new investigation of Platland tree, a.k.a. Sunland baobab, the largest known African baobab. Our recent research was motivated by the three successive splits of 2016 and 2017, which determined the collapse and demise of the stems that have built the main unit of the tree. According to our new findings concerning the architecture of large and old baobabs, we established that Platland tree has a double closed-ring shaped structure and consists of two units/rings that close two separate false cavities. The larger unit was composed of five fused stems, out of which four toppled and died, while the fifth stem is already broken. The smaller unit, which is still standing, consists of three fused stems. We also determined that the larger unit had an age of 800 yr, while the smaller unit is 1100 yr old.

The article presents the AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating results of the baobab of Warang, Senegal. The investigation of the baobab revealed that it consists of 18 partially fused stems, which represents the largest number of stems reported for an African baobab. Three stems build the ring that closes a false cavity, while 15 stems grow outside the ring. Seven wood samples were collected from the false cavity and from the outer part of other stems. The dating results evinced that the stems belong to four different generations, out of which the first generation is around 500 years old. We also documented the presence of false stems, which emerge from a large adjacent stem, are triangular in horizontal section and act as an anchor. The baobab of Warang possesses 12 ordinary stems and 6 false stems.

Author Posting. © Studia Chemia, 2016. This article is posted here by permission of Studia Chemia for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Studia Chemia 2016, no. 4 (2016): 21-30., The article discloses the results of radiocarbon investigation of the baobab of Golconda Fort, Hyderābād, India, which is the largest African baobab outside Africa. Two wood samples were collected from the large inner cavity; of these we extracted several segments for AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. The oldest sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 342 ± 22 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 430 ± 20 yr. We estimate that the oldest part of the baobab has an age of 475 ± 50 yr. The investigation of the baobab of Golconda Fort revealed that it consists of 6 + 2 fused stems. Six stems build two rings that close two distinct false cavities, while two additional stems are located outside the rings. We called this new type of architecture double closed ring-shaped structure with two separate false cavities., The research was funded by the Romanian Ministry of National Education CNCS-UEFISCDI under grant PN-II-ID-PCE-2013-76.

The article reports the radiocarbon investigation of Anzapalivoro, the largest za baobab (Adansonia za) specimen of Madagascar and of another za, namely the Big cistern baobab. Several wood samples collected from the large inner cavity and from the outer part/exterior of the tree were investigated by AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. For samples collected from the cavity walls, the age values increase with the distance into the wood up to a point of maximum age, after which the values decrease toward the outer part. This anomaly of age sequences indicates that the inner cavity of Anzapalivoro is a false cavity, practically an empty space between several fused stems disposed in a ring-shaped structure. The radiocarbon date of the oldest sample was 780 ± 30 bp, which corresponds to a calibrated age of around 735 yr. Dating results indicate that Anzapalivoro has a closed ring-shaped structure, which consists of 5 fused stems that close a false cavity. The oldest part of the biggest za baobab has a calculated age of 900 years. We also disclose results of the investigation of a second za baobab, the Big cistern baobab, which was hollowed out for water storage. This specimen, which consists of 4 fused stems, was found to be around 260 years old.

The article discloses the results of radiocarbon investigation of the baobab of Golconda Fort, Hyderābād, India, which is the largest African baobab outside Africa. Two wood samples were collected from the large inner cavity; of these we extracted several segments for AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. The oldest sample segment had a radiocarbon date of 342 ± 22 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 430 ± 20 yr. We estimate that the oldest part of the baobab has an age of 475 ± 50 yr. The investigation of the baobab of Golconda Fort revealed that it consists of 6 + 2 fused stems. Six stems build two rings that close two distinct false cavities, while two additional stems are located outside the rings. We called this new type of architecture double closed ring-shaped structure with two separate false cavities.

The article reports the radiocarbon investigation results of the Humani Bedford baobab, an old African baobab from Savé Valley, Zimbabwe. Two wood samples were collected from the large inner cavity. Several segments were extracted from these samples and analysed by AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. We found that the age values of segments increase with the distance into the wood. This major anomaly is characteristic to multi-stemmed baobabs with a closed ring-shaped structure and a false cavity inside. The investigation of the Humani Bedford baobab evinced that the baobab consists of three fused stems. The fourth stem of the ring is missing. The oldest dated segment was found to have a radiocarbon date of 1655 ± 14 BP, which corresponds to a calibrated age of 1575 ± 30 yr. The dating results show that the stems which build the ring stopped growing toward the false cavity more than 600 yr ago. By considering the position of the oldest segment in the investigated stem, we concluded that the Humani Bedford baobab is around 1800 yr old. According to our dating results, the Humani Bedford baobab becomes the oldest living African baobab.

The article reports the radiocarbon investigation of Anzapalivoro, the largest za baobab (Adansonia za) specimen of Madagascar and of another za, namely the Big cistern baobab. Several wood samples collected from the large inner cavity and from the outer part/exterior of the tree were investigated by AMS (accelerator mass spectrometry) radiocarbon dating. For samples collected from the cavity walls, the age values increase with the distance into the wood up to a point of maximum age, after which the values decrease toward the outer part. This anomaly of age sequences indicates that the inner cavity of Anzapalivoro is a false cavity, practically an empty space between several fused stems disposed in a ring-shaped structure. The radiocarbon date of the oldest sample was 780 ± 30 bp, which corresponds to a calibrated age of around 735 yr. Dating results indicate that Anzapalivoro has a closed ring-shaped structure, which consists of 5 fused stems that close a false cavity. The oldest part of the biggest za baobab has a calculated age of 900 years. We also disclose results of the investigation of a second za baobab, the Big cistern baobab, which was hollowed out for water storage. This specimen, which consists of 4 fused stems, was found to be around 260 years old.

Wild edible fruits hold great potential for improving human diets, especially in agricultural societies of the developing world. In Africa, a well-known supplier of such fruits is the baobab (Adansonia digitata L., Malvaceae), one of the most remarkable trees of the world. Several studies in different African countries have highlighted this indigenous fruit tree as a priority species for domestication and expanded use. However, internationally available information on baobab in East Africa, particularly in Sudan and Kenya, remains scarce. This review aims to shed light on the ecology, diversity and current level of utilization of baobab in East Africa in order to facilitate domestication and conservation of the species. A list of priority research areas is provided at the end of the review to encourage further studies and investment in this unique plant taxon.

Les diverses techniques de multiplication végétative à faible coût (MVfc) sont utiles pour les populations pauvres des zones tropicales et méditerranéennes qui veulent reproduire à l'identique un arbre sélectionné pour ses usages multiples (fruitier, fourrager, pour la pharmacopée, etc.), pour la réalisation de vergers, haies, brise-vent et parcs agroforestiers dans leurs champs. Ce sont des techniques très aisément reproductibles, qui n'exigent ni intrants coûteux, ni connaissances particulières, ni longue formation. Par rapport aux semis, la MVfc met à la disposition des agroforestiers et des populations rurales des plants à croissance plus rapide et à maturité plus précoce, ce qui raccourcit le retour sur investissement. Les populations rurales y sont très sensibles, notamment pour les espèces dioïques. Toutefois, les diverses techniques de la MVfc demeurent largement sous-utilisées en Afrique. Les avantages de ces techniques peu onéreuses, telles que l'induction de drageons, le bouturage de segments de racines, le marcottage terrestre ou aérien sont présentés dans cet article de synthèse.

Les diverses techniques de multiplication végétative à faible coût (MVfc) sont utiles pour les populations pauvres des zones tropicales et méditerranéennes qui veulent reproduire à l'identique un arbre sélectionné pour ses usages multiples (fruitier, fourrager, pour la pharmacopée, etc.), pour la réalisation de vergers, haies, brise-vent et parcs agroforestiers dans leurs champs. Ce sont des techniques très aisément reproductibles, qui n'exigent ni intrants coûteux, ni connaissances particulières, ni longue formation. Par rapport aux semis, la MVfc met à la disposition des agroforestiers et des populations rurales des plants à croissance plus rapide et à maturité plus précoce, ce qui raccourcit le retour sur investissement. Les populations rurales y sont très sensibles, notamment pour les espèces dioïques. Toutefois, les diverses techniques de la MVfc demeurent largement sous-utilisées en Afrique. Les avantages de ces techniques peu onéreuses, telles que l'induction de drageons, le bouturage de segments de racines, le marcottage terrestre ou aérien sont présentés dans cet article de synthèse.

Development of probiotic mutandabota, a locally sustainable functional food incorporating Lactobacillus rhamnosus Mutandabota or umlondo is an indigenous food that is consumed in Southern Africa on a daily basis. The product is made by mixing raw cow’s or goat’s milk with 14 % (wt/vol) dry pulp of the baobab fruit (Adansonia digitata L.) and 7 % sugar. Mutandabota has a high protein content, and is rich in vitamin C and minerals. It also provides fibre to the diet, which evidently has potential health benefits in preventing diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, some cancers and constipation. Predominant microorganisms were isolated from mutandabota and identified. This indicated that different species of bacteria and yeast survive the acidity and low pH of 3.4±0.1 in mutandabota. While no pathogens were isolated, the identified microorganisms are capable of spoiling the product. Preparation of mutandabota is a gendered activity dominated by women. A probiotic dairy product was then developed at village level on the basis of mutandabota to enable resource-poor populations in Southern Africa to accrue health benefits from a functional food. Raw cow’s milk was pasteurised and dry baobab fruit pulp was added to the milk at a concentration of 4 % (wt/vol). This mixture was inoculated with the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus yoba, an isolate of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, and left to ferment for 24 h. Baobab fruit pulp at 4% promoted growth of L. rhamnosus yoba. More pulp and sugar were then added to produce yoba mutandabota with 14 % (wt/vol) baobab fruit pulp and 7 % sugar. The final pH of yoba mutandabota was pH 3.5, which ensured the microbiological safety of the product. Viable plate count of L. rhamnosus yoba was 8.8 ± 0.4 log cfu/mL at the moment of consumption, thereby meeting the criterion to have a viable count of the probiotic bacterium in excess of 6 log cfu/mL in the product. There was no significant difference (p=0.31) in consumers’ preference between traditi

Le baobab est un arbre qui pousse à l'état sauvage en Afrique et ailleurs dans le monde où le fruit est consommé sous différentes formes. Si l'écologie et la botanique de la plante ont été bien étudiées, il y a peu d'information disponible sur la composition biochimique d'une manière générale et même inexistante chez les espèces malgaches en particulier. Cette étude s'inscrit dans le contexte du développement et de la valorisation des produits locaux en Afrique. Elle a pour objectif principal de mieux caractériser la pulpe des fruits de baobabs issus d'échantillons de diverses provenances de Madagascar et d'Afrique. A cette fin, elle s'est attachée dans un premier temps à caractériser et à quantifier les principaux éléments nutritifs comme les glucides, les acides aminés, les lipides, les polyphénols, la vitamine C, les acides organiques, les éléments minéraux et les arômes. La caractérisation biochimique de la pulpe a révélé une forte acidité titrable (102 meq/100g), une teneur élevée en acide ascorbique (jusqu'à 312 mg/100g) et en polyphénols de 60,24 à 137,81mg/100g ainsi qu'un potentiel antioxydant très fort de 329 à 1705,98 mg/100g et une bonne source de Ca de 658 mg/100g. Une évaluation du potentiel de ce fruit pour une valorisation à plus grande échelle à travers une amélioration des procédés de transformation existant en Afrique a été réalisée. L'identification d'une approche de stabilisation et de conservation du nectar par voie conventionnelle (pasteurisation) a été réalisée. Nos résultats ont montré que le nectar est aussi nutritif que les fruits usuels et que sa stabilisation peut se faire par une pasteurisation en utilisant le barème 70°C/10 min. L'analyse sensorielle du nectar après chaque étape de traitement (pasteurisation ; conservation 42 j) n'a pas montré de modification organoleptique du produit quelque soit les conditions utilisées. Deux approches empiriques classiques (modèles d'Arrhenius et de Ball) ont été utilisés pour décrire la cinétique d

Le baobab est un arbre qui pousse à l'état sauvage en Afrique et ailleurs dans le monde où le fruit est consommé sous différentes formes. Si l'écologie et la botanique de la plante ont été bien étudiées, il y a peu d'information disponible sur la composition biochimique d'une manière générale et même inexistante chez les espèces malgaches en particulier. Cette étude s'inscrit dans le contexte du développement et de la valorisation des produits locaux en Afrique. Elle a pour objectif principal de mieux caractériser la pulpe des fruits de baobabs issus d'échantillons de diverses provenances de Madagascar et d'Afrique. A cette fin, elle s'est attachée dans un premier temps à caractériser et à quantifier les principaux éléments nutritifs comme les glucides, les acides aminés, les lipides, les polyphénols, la vitamine C, les acides organiques, les éléments minéraux et les arômes. La caractérisation biochimique de la pulpe a révélé une forte acidité titrable (102 meq/100g), une teneur élevée en acide ascorbique (jusqu'à 312 mg/100g) et en polyphénols de 60,24 à 137,81mg/100g ainsi qu'un potentiel antioxydant très fort de 329 à 1705,98 mg/100g et une bonne source de Ca de 658 mg/100g. Une évaluation du potentiel de ce fruit pour une valorisation à plus grande échelle à travers une amélioration des procédés de transformation existant en Afrique a été réalisée. L'identification d'une approche de stabilisation et de conservation du nectar par voie conventionnelle (pasteurisation) a été réalisée. Nos résultats ont montré que le nectar est aussi nutritif que les fruits usuels et que sa stabilisation peut se faire par une pasteurisation en utilisant le barème 70°C/10 min. L'analyse sensorielle du nectar après chaque étape de traitement (pasteurisation ; conservation 42 j) n'a pas montré de modification organoleptique du produit quelque soit les conditions utilisées. Deux approches empiriques classiques (modèles d'Arrhenius et de Ball) ont été utilisés pour décrire la cinétique d

Baobabs (Adansonia spp.) are iconic trees, known for their immense size, strange forms, sources of food and as the subjects of myths and mysteries. It is thus surprising that little is known regarding the fungi that infect these trees. During a survey to determine which wound infecting fungi occur on baobabs, synnematous structures were observed and Graphium-like isolates were obtained. Culture characteristics and micro-morphology, together with DNA sequence comparisons for the SSU rRNA, rRNA-ITS and TEF-1α gene regions were used to characterise these fungi. These data revealed three novel Graphium spp. and these are described as G. adansoniae, G. madagascariense and G. fabiforme.

Le baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) est un arbre qui pousse à l'état sauvage au Sénégal où le fruit est consommé sous différentes formes. Si l'écologie et la botanique de la plante ont été bien étudiées, les travaux portant sur la transformation du fruit ou sur l'impact des traitements de transformation sur la qualité des produits finis sont rares. Afin d'évaluer le potentiel technologique de ces fruits, en préalable au développement de leurs produits de transformation sur les marchés locaux, régionaux et internationaux, nous avons cherché à mieux caractériser la matière première (composition biochimique et qualité nutritionnelle), et nous avons étudié la transformation du produit en nectar. Matériel et méthodes. L'étude a porté sur douze échantillons de fruits décoqués d'A. digitata prélevés entre 2004 et 2006 dans différentes zones du Sénégal. Les proportions des différents constituants du fruit (pulpe, graines, fibres) ont été déterminées, puis différentes caractéristiques physicochimiques de la pulpe et de la graine ont été ana-lysées. La flore microbienne présente dans les boissons traditionnellement préparées a été étudiée. Les tech-niques de pasteurisation et de microfiltration tangentielle des nectars ont été appliquées. Les différentes utilisations et les procédés de transformation traditionnels du fruit ont été évalués à partir d'une enquête réalisée sur un échantillon de 93 personnes interrogées à Dakar et Saly. Résultats et discussion. La pulpe a été caractérisée par une faible teneur en eau (6–15 %), une forte acidité (68–201 mEq·100 g–1) et des teneurs élevées en sucres (20–32 %), acide ascorbique (125–312 mg·100 g–1), minéraux (6 %) et amidon (41–47 %). Les chromatogrammes obtenus par CPG/SM sur la pulpe de fruit ont mis en évidence 10 composés d'arôme dont le myristate d'isopropyle, un composé phénolique non identifié et le nonanal. Sans précaution particulière, la composition de la pulpe a évolué au cours du stockage et sa qualité s'est rapidement dég

Author Posting. © The Author(s), 2009. This is the author's version of the work. It is posted here by permission of Elsevier B.V. for personal use, not for redistribution. The definitive version was published in Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms 268 (2010): 910-913, doi:10.1016/j.nimb.2009.10.062., Several wood samples collected from Dorslandboom, a large African baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) from Namibia, were investigated by AMS radiocarbon dating subsequent to pretreatment and, alternatively, without pretreatment. The comparative statistical evaluation of results showed that there were no significant differences between fraction modern values and radiocarbon dates of the samples analyzed after pretreatment and without pretreatment, respectively. The radiocarbon date of the oldest sample was 993 ± 20 BP. Dating results also revealed that Dorslandboom is a multi-generation tree, with several stems showing different ages., This material is based on work supported by U.S. National Science Foundation under Cooperative Agreement OCE-022828996. Part of the research was supported by grants from the Romanian Academy and the Romanian National University Research Council (PN II – ID 2354) and also by Nova Research Inc.

Several wood samples collected from Dorslandboom, a large African baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) from Namibia, were investigated by AMS radiocarbon dating subsequent to pretreatment and, alternatively, without pretreatment. The comparative statistical evaluation of results showed that there were no significant differences between fraction modern values and radiocarbon dates of the samples analyzed after pretreatment and without pretreatment, respectively. The radiocarbon date of the oldest sample was 993 ± 20 BP. Dating results also revealed that Dorslandboom is a multi-generation tree, with several stems showing different ages.

This study evaluates the spatial genetic structure of baobab (Adansonia digitata) populations from West African agroforestry systems at different geographical scales using AFLP fingerprints. Eleven populations from four countries (Benin, Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Senegal) had comparable levels of genetic diversity. although the two populations in the extreme west (Senegal) had less diversity. Pairwise F-ST ranged from 0.02 to 0.28 and increased with geographic distance, even at a regional scale. Gene pools detected by Bayesian clustering seem to be a byproduct of the isolation-by-distance pattern rather than representing actual discrete entities. The organization of genetic diversity appears to result essentially from spatially restricted, with some influences of human seed exchange. Despite the potential for relatively long-distance pollen and seed dispersal by bats within populations. statislically significant spatial genetic structuring within population, (SGS) was detected and gave a mean indirect estimate of neighborhood size of ca. 45. This study demonstrated that relatively high levels of genetic structuring are present in baobab at both large and within-population level, which was unexpected in regard to its dispersal by bats and the influence ofliuman exchange of seeds. Implications of these results for the conservation of baobab populations are discussed., info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Le baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) est un arbre qui pousse à l'état sauvage au Sénégal où le fruit est consommé sous différentes formes. Si l'écologie et la botanique de la plante ont été bien étudiées, les travaux portant sur la transformation du fruit ou sur l'impact des traitements de transformation sur la qualité des produits finis sont rares. Afin d'évaluer le potentiel technologique de ces fruits, en préalable au développement de leurs produits de transformation sur les marchés locaux, régionaux et internationaux, nous avons cherché à mieux caractériser la matière première (composition biochimique et qualité nutritionnelle), et nous avons étudié la transformation du produit en nectar. Matériel et méthodes. L'étude a porté sur douze échantillons de fruits décoqués d'A. digitata prélevés entre 2004 et 2006 dans différentes zones du Sénégal. Les proportions des différents constituants du fruit (pulpe, graines, fibres) ont été déterminées, puis différentes caractéristiques physicochimiques de la pulpe et de la graine ont été ana-lysées. La flore microbienne présente dans les boissons traditionnellement préparées a été étudiée. Les tech-niques de pasteurisation et de microfiltration tangentielle des nectars ont été appliquées. Les différentes utilisations et les procédés de transformation traditionnels du fruit ont été évalués à partir d'une enquête réalisée sur un échantillon de 93 personnes interrogées à Dakar et Saly. Résultats et discussion. La pulpe a été caractérisée par une faible teneur en eau (6–15 %), une forte acidité (68–201 mEq·100 g–1) et des teneurs élevées en sucres (20–32 %), acide ascorbique (125–312 mg·100 g–1), minéraux (6 %) et amidon (41–47 %). Les chromatogrammes obtenus par CPG/SM sur la pulpe de fruit ont mis en évidence 10 composés d'arôme dont le myristate d'isopropyle, un composé phénolique non identifié et le nonanal. Sans précaution particulière, la composition de la pulpe a évolué au cours du stockage et sa qualité s'est rapidement dég

This study evaluates the spatial genetic structure of baobab (Adansonia digitata) populations from West African agroforestry systems at different geographical scales using AFLP fingerprints. Eleven populations from four countries (Benin, Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Senegal) had comparable levels of genetic diversity. although the two populations in the extreme west (Senegal) had less diversity. Pairwise F-ST ranged from 0.02 to 0.28 and increased with geographic distance, even at a regional scale. Gene pools detected by Bayesian clustering seem to be a byproduct of the isolation-by-distance pattern rather than representing actual discrete entities. The organization of genetic diversity appears to result essentially from spatially restricted, with some influences of human seed exchange. Despite the potential for relatively long-distance pollen and seed dispersal by bats within populations. statislically significant spatial genetic structuring within population, (SGS) was detected and gave a mean indirect estimate of neighborhood size of ca. 45. This study demonstrated that relatively high levels of genetic structuring are present in baobab at both large and within-population level, which was unexpected in regard to its dispersal by bats and the influence ofliuman exchange of seeds. Implications of these results for the conservation of baobab populations are discussed., info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Pays d'Afrique de l'Ouest, la Guinée a un climat tropical et un relief accidenté, avec un réseau hydrographique important. Elle présente quatre régions naturelles dans lesquelles se développent spontanément plusieurs espèces fruitières dont les fruits sont actuellement consommés et vendus dans les marchés nationaux. Afin de mieux exploiter ces produits, des enquêtes ont cherché à constituer une base de données fiables identifiant les espèces fruitières impliquées, leurs zones et leurs périodes de production, le circuit de commercialisation des produits, leurs techniques de conservation, de transformation et de consommation. Un suivi des prix des fruits de cueillette commercialisés en Guinée et une analyse approfondie de leur production et de leur utilisation ont été réalisés de mars 1998 à février 2000 sur deux mêmes marchés guinéens. Pour cela, les informations requises (prix, période, conditionnement, circuit de commercialisation) ont été collectées par enquêtes effectuées tous les quinze jours et consignées sur une fiche spécifique. L'étude a mis en évidence d'éventuels problèmes d'approvisionnement des marchés, liés à leur site. Parmi les espèces identifiées, douze se sont révélées plus importantes et ont fait l'objet d'analyses. Leurs zones de production ont été définies. La majorité des fruits commercialisés sur les marchés enquêtés mûrissent entre mars et juin; ils représentent une source de revenus pour une bonne part de la population. Les techniques de conservation, de commercialisation, de transformation et de consommation ont été répertoriées. L'enquête effectuée conduit à encourager la protection des fruitiers de cueillette et à conseiller leur introduction progressive dans les vergers familiaux. Les programmes de recherches nationaux cherchent à intervenir également dans la transformation et la conservation des produits issus de cueillettes, qui posent de grosses difficultés aux producteurs.

Der Baobab (Adansonia digitata) ist ein mächtiger und laubabwerfender Baum, der im Sudan heimisch ist. Neben den Früchten bietet er eine Vielzahl von Verwendungsmöglichkeiten u.a. als Nahrungs- und Heilmittel. Die Tamarinde (Tamarindus indica) ist ein graziöser und immergrüner Baum, der im Sudan verbreitet ist. Die Früchte sind bei der Bevölkerung sehr begehrt. Weiterhin ist er Grundlage für viele Forstprodukte. Im Zentralsudan konnten weitere Wildobstarten identifiziert werden, die zur Sicherung der Nahrungsgrundlage der ländlichen Bevölkerung in den Savannen beitragen. Vor allem im Nordsudan existieren große, potenzielle Agrarflächen, auf denen die Bodenversalzung als limitierender Faktor wirkt. Um Nahrungssicherheit für die zunehmende Bevölkerung zu gewährleisten, erlagen diese marginalen Flächen immer mehr an Bedeutung. Die Gewächshausversuche über einen Zeitraum von 20 Wochen zeigten, dass bei Adansonia digitata-Sämlingen das Wachstum und der Stoffwechsel bereits bei Salzbelastungen von 20 mM NaCl stark beeinflusst wurden. Daher kann diese Art im Sämlingsstadium als sehr salzempfindlich eingestuft werden. Tamarindus indica-Sämlinge tolerierten Salzbelastungen von 40 mM NaCl. Daraus folgt, dass die Tamarinde im Vergleich zu anderen Obstarten im Sämlingsstadium relativ salzverträglich ist. Unter den gegebenen Versuchsumständen ist zu vermuten, dass die Tamarinde eher geeignet scheint für die Kultivierung in salzbelasteten semiariden Gebieten., The Baobab (Adansonia digitata) is a massive, deciduous tree and native to Sudan. Beside its fruits, the Baobab has an exceedingly wide range of uses ranging from food and beverages to medicinal uses. The tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is an aesthetic, evergreen tree and grows wild throughout Sudan. Its fruits are highly appreciated by the people. In addition, the tree provides a diversity of further important forest products. A number of under-utilised species with edible fruits were identified in Central Sudan. Fruits of these indigenous species play an important role in the diet of rural people in the savanna belt, especially during famines and food shortages. Particularly in Northern Sudan there are vast areas of potentially arable land which are affected by salinity to variable degrees. In order to maintain food security for the increasing population, this land is becoming more and more important. The results of the greenhouse experiments over a period of 20 weeks indicate that a salinity level of 20 mM NaCl strongly influences growth and metabolism of Adansonia digitata seedlings. Therefore in the seedling stage the species can be characterised as salt-sensitive. Tamarindus indica seedlings tolerated a salinity level of 40 mM NaCl. This indicates that in the seedling stage tamarind is a fairly salt tolerant tree species compared to other fruit trees. The conclusion of the greenhouse experiments indicates that the tamarind seems to be the more suitable under-utilized fruit tree species for cultivation in semi-arid areas with salinity problems.