A family of segmented polynomial functions for modelling the border effect on the diameter growth of Ayous (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum)

This paper introduces a family of four segmented (or grafted) polynomial functions for modelling the decrease in the diameter of Ayous (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum) with distance from the border of the plantation. The functions, each comprising two segments of second degree or less, were fitted to data collected in the Cameroon rain forest. A comparative assessment of the fit was carried out using criteria such as mean deviation, root mean squared deviation, and fit index.

The border effect extended to 10 m inside the plantation where a 50% decrease in diameter occurred. Beyond that distance, the diameter appeared to be stable except for random variation. The estimated functions performed equally well as they all provided a good fit to the data, with a small bias. Most importantly, they proved to be flexible and thus adaptable to a wide variety of situations.

Recommendations are made concerning setting up a guard area and ways of improving the silviculture of Ayous. Also, the possibilities for an agrisilvipastoral system are explored.