The objective of the present study is to highlight the spatial structure of trees and to determine its influence on the natural regeneration of the Rumonge open forest, with a view to its optimal conservation and valorization. Data collection was carried out by measuring the diameter at chest height along 12 transects. During the analysis of these data, the Dajoz test made it possible to determine the horizontal spatial distribution pattern of the three most abundant tree species in the forest (Brachystegia bussei Harms, B. microphylla Harms, and B. utilis Burtty & Hutch).

The χ 2 test was used to compare the frequency distribution of the diameter classes for the three species tested. To estimate the difference between the number of seedlings in cluster areas compared to non-cluster areas, the Wilcoxon signed test was used. In addition, the equity index made it possible to verify the preponderance of proportions between diameter classes. Finally, the natural regeneration index was calculated.