An Ecological Assessment of Tree Species Diversity, Richness and Status in Faculty of Agriculture Shabu-Lafia, Nasarawa State University Keffi, Nasarawa State Nigeria

Abstract

Trees are very important to mankind in different capacity. This study was carried out to assess the diversity, richness and status of tree species in Faculty of Agriculture Shabu-Lafia Campus Nasarawa State Keffi, Northern Nigeria. The study area was divided in four independent site. A line transect of 1000M were established at each site by passing through the center of the site along which 10 sample plots of 50 m × 50 m in size were established in alternate position along each transect at 80m interval. Species diversity richness were measured using Shannon-Weiner index (H) and Margalef species richness index (D), respectively, percentage relative density was used to measure trees status. Thirty six (36) tree species belonging to twenty one (21) families were recorded. Family Fabaceae had the highest number of species. From the results of the study invasive tree species are the most dominat. The Shannon-Weiner diversity index (H) were 2.74 for total site, 2.18 for site A, 2.10 for site B, 2.24 for site C and 2.29 for site D. The Margalef species richness index (D) values for the species were; total site = 4.89, site A = 2.66, Site B = 2.60, Site C = 2.28 and Site D = 2.50. The result of the status showed that 19.44% of tree species were abundant, 5.55% of the species were occasional, 27.77% of the trees species were rare, and 47.22% were threaten or endanger. In conclusion tree species diversity ranging 1.5-3.5 is in line with standard. The tree species richness is low. Majority of the species were either rare or endanger. The study recommended that, there should be legislation against felling or cutting down of any tree that is ≥ 10cm in diameter be it local or invasive species in the study area. Annual enrichment planting of trees species should be adopted. Awareness on the potential ecological benefits of tree stands on farmlands to the people within and surrounding the study area will play a vital role in conserving the tree species.