Some tree improvement programs in Africa use nursery tests to investigate genetic and geographic variation in growth, but do they lead to the same conclusions as field tests? We investigated this question using provenance/progeny tests (12 provenances, 108 families) of Balanites aegyptiacafrom semi-arid Niger. The nursery test included treatments for time (12–16 months) and watering regime (reduced and normal). Family variation was significant for shoot diameter (Sdia), height (Sht), dry weight (Swt) and root dry weight (Rwt) in the nursery, and for tree height at 1 and 2 years (Fht-1, Fht-2) but not at 13.5 years (Fht-13.5) in the field. Provenance variation was significant only for root/shoot weight ratio (RSwt) in the nursery. Family mean Fht-1 and Fht-2 were positively correlated with all nursery growth variables except RSwt. Provenance mean Fht-2 was positively correlated with Sht, while provenance mean Fht-13.5 was negatively correlated with Swt and positively correlated with RSwt. Family mean survival at 13.5 years was positively correlated with Swt, Sdia, Fht-1 and Fht-2. Family mean Rwt, RSwt and Fht-2 increased from the more humid western to the drier eastern locations.
Dans les pays sahéliens les espèces agroforestières telles que Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del jouent un rôle de premier plan dans la sécurité alimentaire et nutritionnelle des paysans grâce aux produits forestiers non ligneux et à la production de bois ; (Pascal, 2000, Dramé Yayé et Berti, 2008 Larwanou, 2008). Balanites aegyptiaca est un arbre à usages multiples, répandu en Afrique tropicale sèche (Boffa, 2000). Selon Arbonnier (2000), on la retrouve presque partout au Niger et toutes ses parties sont pleinement utilisées dans la pharmacopée traditionnelle. Les feuilles, les fleurs et les jeunes rameaux sont prisés dans la cuisson. La pulpe des fruits à goût doux-amer, est sucée comme bonbon. Ses drupes commercialisées par les femmes sont aussi macérées dans de l’eau et remplacent le sucre dans la bouillie.