Bryophytes of Benin Republic: traditional knowledge, uses and perceived threats

Bryophytes are ecologically and socioeconomically important but remain largely understudied from an ethnobotanical perspective, particularly in Africa. This study provides the first assessment of traditional knowledge, uses, perceived threats, and conservation strategies for bryophytes in Benin Republic.

Ethnobotanical data were collected through semi-structured interviews (n = 637), free-listing, and participatory ranking among fifteen sociolinguistic groups across the three climatic zones of Benin (humid, sub-humid, and semi-arid). Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to assess (i) bryophyte knowledge, (ii) use patterns, (iii) socio-demographic factors associated with knowledge of bryophytes, (iv) perceived threats, and (v) proposed conservation measures.

Sixteen species were cited, of which twelve had documented traditional uses. Vernacular classifications relied mainly on habitat-based descriptors, while medicinal uses were predominant. Philonotis africana (Müll. Hal.) Rehmann ex Paris, Index Bryol. emerged as the most widely known and culturally important species, whereas other taxa showed marked geographic and cultural specificity. Knowledge of bryophytes varied significantly with ethnicity, age, occupation, and education, with elders, traditional healers, and few ethnic groups holding the richest knowledge. Species diversity and uses declined from the humid to the semi-arid zone, consistent with the ecological apparency hypothesis. Deforestation and agricultural expansion were identified as the main threats. Proposed conservation measures emphasized protected areas, reduced forest clearing, and preservation of humid microhabitats.

Overall, this study provides important baseline on bryophytes in Benin and essential insights towards their sustainable management. Further studies should be conducted on Philonotis Africana, especially regarding its medicinal and environmental benefits.