Seed germination, storability and moisture sorption isotherms of the endangered African rosewood (Pterocarpus erinaceus)

African rosewood (Pterocarpus erinaceus) is an endemic, highly exploited and endangered tree species in arid semi-arid zones of West Africa. Identifying optimum conditions for seed propagation storage critical its conservation. This study assessed the effects four pretreatments on germination seedling vigour. Varying temperature, duration packaging deterioration were also evaluated 12-months. Moisture sorption isotherms at 20, 25 30°C characterized by equilibrating samples series lithium chloride (LiCl) solutions, generating relative humidity (RH) range 3-95%. Data fitted to mathematical models; Chung Pfost, Halsey, Henderson Oswin determine most suitable describing water activity (aw), equilibrium moisture content (EMC) temperature relationship. Results indicate that whole fruit sowing reduced capacity more than 50% compared with extracted seeds 5% probability level. Seeds stored -10°C recorded lowest rate ambient storage, regardless packaging. showed a sigmoid (S-shaped) profile characteristic orthodox seeds, best described equation. Our findings highlight need adopting improved extraction technology protocols P. erinaceus Key words: germination, storability, rosewood, isotherms.