Towards effective management of the invasive plant Senna obtufifolia

Invasive plants modify the composition and structure of ecosystems, leading to the disappearance of many native species. In West Africa, and particularly in Burkina Faso, Senna obtusifolia is one of these invasive plants whose invasion has led to a reduction in natural forage, which remains the main source of food for livestock. The overall aim of this study is to contribute to better management of pastoral areas through effective control of S. obtusifolia. It therefore aims to propose potential solutions to control the invasion of this species. To understand peoples endogenous knowledge of S. obtusifolia, ethnobotanical surveys targeting 300 people were carried out in villages near pastoral areas. This was followed by phytosociological inventories and biomass assessments of herbaceous species.