Ecosystem services provided by Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce in the drylands of Southern and Western Asia
Résumé
Trees of the Mimosoideae are dominant species in hot subdesert areas worldwide, providing many services for ecosystems and humans. This group includes Prosopis cineraria (L.) Druce, a dominant species from the dryland forests of Southern and Western Asia. Human population density and activities in these arid areas have led to calls for an urgent consideration of ecosystem services and conservation biodiversity. We performed a literature review on P. cineraria, to determine how this species could contribute to ecosystem conservation, ecosystem restoration, and improving ecosystem services in its native distribution range. Prosopis cineraria is at the heart of a network of intricate interactions with biotic and abiotic factors in its environment. Water mobilization, nitrogen fixation, soil stabilization, and the shade and resources provided by P. cineraria are key elements in the consideration of this species for conservation programs. Moreover, P. cineraria is deeply entrenched in local culture and history. It is part of the local cultural identity and provides remedies, agro-ecological, recreational, and regulating services, such as protecting dunes against erosion. Prosopis cineraria is of huge ethnobotanical value in subdesert areas in its native range. Dryland forest conservation strategies could benefit greatly from targeting this species, and should be accompanied by research in the potential of P. cineraria for coping with climate change.