The general objective of this study is to assist in the development of sustainable (ecologically sound) management systems for the evergreen moist forest of Cameroon.Short-term objectives are:

• To assess the dependency of commercial tree species on animals for dispersal of their seeds;
• To assess the impact of seed production on germination capacity and therefore on the regeneration of commercial tree species;
• To assess the impact of human activities on populations of seed dispersers, and therefore on the regeneration of timber species.

Studies on 23 tree species indicated that animals play an important role in seed dispersal of all those species. Studies on fruit phenology, fruit production and fruit nutritional value of three tree species underlined this importance. The relation of two monkey and two hornbill species and these tree species was studied and the fate of seeds after handling (eating, storage in mouth, passage of the intestines) by these animals was analysed. Population size of nearly all animals in the zone decreased over the last ten years due to hunting, endangering the seed dispersion. Recommendations for land use planning and forest management were formulated.

• Bibani Mbarga, R. and Jonkers, W.B.J. (2001). Silvicultural monitoring in permanent sample plots in Ebom forest, Southern Cameroon. In: Jonkers, W.B.J. et al (Eds.): sustainable management of African rain forest. Part II: Symposium (more)
• Mbelli, H. (2002). Plant-animal relations: effects of disturbance on the regeneration of commercial tree species. Tropenbos-Cameroon Documents 11.