Role of Acacia species in the rural economy of dry Africa and the Near East. FAO Conservation Guide 27.
1995, 137pp., ISBN 92-5-103651-9, $16.00.

The importance of Acacia species in the rural economy of dry Africa cannot be overemphasized; Acacia species are present in all communities for food production, energy supply, the establishment of human settlements and other aspects of economic and cultural development. FAO Conservation Guide No. 27 recognizes the multipurpose role of the genus and reviews available information on the presence and distribution of Acacia species and formations, their uses and their role in environmental conservation. The publication also focuses on some key species. The last part explores the multipurpose management of Acacia stands and their strategic importance and suggests some research requirements for further and more sustainable use and conservation of Acacia species and formation.