Ethnozoological uses of common hippopotamus (<em>Hippopotamus amphibius</em>) in Benin Republic (Western Africa)

Abstract

<em>Hippopotamus amphibius</em> is the 3^rd largest and heaviest terrestrial mammal after elephants (<em>Loxodonta africana</em>) and white rhinos (<em>Ceratotherium simum</em>) in Africa. This investigation conducted in the Benin Republic aims to assess the local inhabitants' traditional knowledge associated with hippo in different use categories (medicinal, cultural and spiritual). Data were gathered using ethnozoological questionnaires. One hundred and fifty informants from 13 ethnic groups in Benin were randomly selected and interviewed. Chi square test was used to analyze the answers given regarding the uses categories of hippo. Principal Correspondence Analysis was used to describe traditional beliefs associated with hippo according to the ethnic groups. Results revealed seven use categories for hippo. A significant difference was observed between age groups (<img src='/image/spc_char/lembda.gif' border=0>² = 27.537; p = 0.027; dF = 2) regarding use categories. But no significant differences were found between ethnic groups (<img src='/image/spc_char/lembda.gif' border=0>² = 16.437; p = 0.057; dF = 12) for the use categories. The Principal Component Analysis revealed differences in traditional beliefs associated with hippo. For example, the male adult <em>Yoruba</em> and <em>Adja</em> regard hippo as cruel and diabolic animal. The <em>Fon</em> and old men from <em>Idatcha, Aïzo, Mahi, Goun, Holly</em> and <em>Cotafon</em> ethnic groups have considered hippo as saviour, protector and fetish.