Abstract:
The production of Pleurotus abalonu on palm stalks and that of Volvariella volvacea on dead
palm trees is very little known in Benin. However, few studies have been conducted on these
means of production. The purpose of this study is to generate useful information to take
advantage of the potential of these non-ligneous forest products. The sample includes 88
respondents, including Pleurotus abalonus producers (9.09%), Volvariella volvaceapickers
(88.63%) and hotel and restaurant managers (11.36%). Data collection is based on structured
interviews and direct observations. The stakeholders involved in this product include, among
others, growers of Pleurotus abalonus, the collectors of Volvariella volvacea, wholesalers and
consumers. The marketing of these mushrooms produced and collected brings significant income
to these stakeholders. A producer of Pleurotus abalonus earns on average 202.410 F CFA, after
the production of 200 kg of mushrooms in three months. The income of a Volvariella
volvaceaseller varies between 2000 and 4000 F CFA per day for 1 to 2 kg of Volvariella
volvacea picked. The consumption of these, allows the population to fight against protein
deficiency and certain diseases such as anemia, thanks to the nutrients they have. The
valorization of the production of mushrooms (Pleurotus abalonus and Volvariella volvacea) on
stems and dead palms, through awareness, training and supervision, are the essential points for
the development of this crop. |
