Substitution of tree-species in declining Casuarina equisetifolia stands with a protection role in Reunion.textjournalArticleTassinJ.autMichonR.autOrazioC.authttp://publications.cirad.fr/une_notice.php?dk=391465In the context of planning restoration of the forest of Etang Sale (Reunion Island), an experimental programme led jointly by CIRAD (Forest Department) and Office National des Forets was set up in 1988 for choosing tree species to replace declining Casuarina equisetifolia. A detailed study considered the factors responsible for the decline of Casuarina equisetifolia, showing among others the increasing role of the attacks by an insect, Coelosterna scabrator [ Cerosterna scabrator]. Methods of preventive treatment are suggested. Among trees tested, several species were chosen: Acacia auriculiformis, Azadirachta indica, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Eucalyptus citriodora, Grevillea robusta, Khaya senegalensis and Senna siamea, in particular because of their growth, low death rate and their resistance to hurricane winds. These tree species are now used in this reforestation site. Finally, an assessment of the effect of this operation upon the biodiversity was made using a published analysis of relationships between the forest habitat and the coastal bird communities of Reunion.FrançaisCABI:19990606193journal3691961998continuing0395-7497Bulletin Technique - Office National des Forets