Pedoclimatic parameters influence on the structural parameters and survival of Acacia auriculiformis plants in Kétou and Toui-Kilibo classified forests in Benin

Understanding the mechanisms that influence the dynamics of plant species has become a major issue in conservation ecology, especially with the impact of climate change and ecosystem degradation due to strong anthropization. Thus, this research evaluates the effects of pedoclimatic parameters on structural parameters of young Acacia auriculiformis plants in the Toui-Kilibo and Kétou classified forests in Benin, West Africa. In this study, we sampled permanent plots monitored over 3 years, where we measured the basal diameter, total height, number of main branches and plant mortality rate. We built a structural equation model to test the direct and indirect effects of pedoclimatic parameters on the growth and survival parameters of Acacia auriculiformis . As predicted, the results demonstrate a positive effect of rainfall on growth, but with variable responses depending on the sites. Contrary to our predictions, temperature has a positive effect on growth in Kétou, but a negative effect on seedling diameter and survival in Toui-Kilibo. Finally, soil pH is identified as a limiting factor in the growth and survival of young Acacia auriculiformis plants. Overall, the results highlight the importance of considering the complex interaction between climate and soil in predicting species dynamics.