Mapping the yield of African mango as a non-timber forest product using geostatistical approaches in Benin West Africa

Although Irvingia gabonensis cultivation is expanding in southern Benin, spatially explicit data on productivity and market value remain limited. This study uses geostatistical and economic data to evaluate the spatial structure of fruit yield and the commercial potential of this species. The research was conducted in the Couffo department, in South-West Benin using 62 georeferenced megaplots spaced at least 5 km apart. Within each plot, the yield of fruits, nuts, and kernels were quantified per tree using standardized field protocols. Spatial dependence was modeled using empirical semivariograms and ordinary kriging was used to generate predictive yield maps. The results revealed an isotropic spatial structure with a semivariogram range of 17.1 km, indicating small-scale clustered productivity zones. Tree density and fruit yields were notably concentrated in the communes of Toviklin, Klouékanmè, and Djakotomey, which emerged as the main production centers for I. gabonensis in Couffo. The mean annual yield per hectare was estimated to be 857.89 kg of fruits, 63.34 kg of nuts, and 20.85 kg of kernels. Kernel prices averaged 4,000 CFA Francs per kg during the dry season, with total commercial value exceeding 20 billion CFA francs for the study area. This study demonstrates the importance of geostatistics in agroforestry planning and emphasises the untapped economic potential of I. gabonensis . The findings provide a scientific basis for targeted interventions in value chain development, sustainable resource management, and climate-resilient livelihoods in Benin.