Untangling Biocultural and Socioeconomical Drivers of African Plum Tree (Dacryodes edulis) Local Nomenclature Along a Rural-Urban Gradient in Central Cameroon

Abstract In Cameroon, the African plum tree ( Dacryodes edulis [G. Don] H. J. Lam) is widely cultivated for its fruits, which contribute significantly to household food security and economy. order analyze links between social ecological systems that result in remarkable fruit diversity, we focused on how important varietal diversity of plums was perceived named by owners. We conducted semi‑structured interviews Center-Cameroon with 142 people belonging Beti ethnic group, urban (Yaoundé), peri-urban rural areas, analyzed data qualitatively quantitatively. Along this urbanization gradient linking production consumption regions, 158 different translated names were recorded. Most (80%) cited once, but some based size taste common across gradient. Although highest total number recorded site, many also found along urban–rural did not detect difference respondents characteristics. The local classification among structured predominantly according morphological organoleptic criteria, symbolic practical criteria. plums’ people’s preferences, favor large, oily, blue black disregard pink-colored watery plums. This study an entry point explore rising trade thus ongoing domestication from often neglected perspective, nomenclature.