Vol. 5, Issue 12, Part A (2019)

Abstract
In Côte d'Ivoire, rural populations living on the periphery of classified forests depend in part on several species as sources of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to meet their daily needs. In a context of anthropogenic pressures, this study aims to identify vulnerable plant species that are sources of commonly used NTFPs and riparian populations of FCHS, with a view to preserving and sustainably managing these natural resources. To achieve this, semi-structured individual surveys were conducted among FCHS residents. In addition, inventories through rectangular area surveys (500 m x 10 m) crossing different agro-ecological environments were carried out to report on the availability of NTFP source species within the FCHS. Surveys revealed that 136 source species of NTFPs are commonly used by FCHS riparian populations. These species are divided into 119 genera, arranged in 55 families, the most represented in number of species being the Euphorbiaceae. They are mainly used in six fields, namely pharmacopoeia, food, crafts, construction, packaging and culture. They are mainly used in six fields, namely pharmacopoeia, food, crafts, construction, packaging and culture. However, the plants used in the pharmacopoeia are the most important. However, the plants used in the pharmacopoeia are the most important. These plants are sought after for their bark (52.52%), leaves (28.78%), stem (21.58%), sap (14.38%), almonds (2.16%) and fruit pulp (0.72%) depending on the domain. According to usage values, among the top 20 source species of NTFPs identified, Elaeis guineensis (Vu = 2.96) is the best-known and most sought-after species. In total, 45 source species of NTFPs, or 32.37% of the plant species used by the FCHS riparian population, are vulnerable. Of these species, five (5) are threatened with extinction. These are Irvingia gabonensis, Neuropeltis acuminata, Laccosperma secundiflorum, Entandrophragma utile et Entandrophragma angolense.