Scientists have mapped shea tree populations to identify the potential of existing shea parklands and the most suitable areas for shea trees to grow.

Published in the journal, Applied Geography, the research shows there are 3.41 million square kilometres across 23 countries suitable for shea. The scientists estimate this could support 1.84 billion trees, yielding 2.44 million tons of kernels and more than 800,000 tons of shea butter.

The shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) is indigenous to Africa and grows in parkland agroforestry systems across the Sahel. For many in this arid region, particularly women, the shea tree is their main source of livelihood. The tree produces a fruit from which shea butter is extracted. Shea butter is commonly used in cosmetics and lotions as well as being used as a substitute for cocoa butter in the manufacture of chocolate.

The multi-billion dollar shea butter industry is expected to continue growing, as demand for the product in cosmetics and confectionary grows.

To model shea tree distribution, scientists, Dr. Peter N. Lovett and Colleen C. Naughton together with adviser, James R. Mihelcic, used mapping software and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) based on extensive criteria, including precipitation, elevation, land use, temperature, fire, NDVI and soils.

Read the full story on the website of the Global Shea Alliance: New research on most suitable areas for shea trees

Download the article:

Naughton CC, Lovett PN, Mihelcic JR (2015) Land suitability modeling of shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) distribution across sub-Saharan Africa. Applied Geography 58 pp 217-227.