Diversity and Population Status of Tree Species in Bakin-Dutse of Ardo-Kola LGA, Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

Nigerian forest resources are constantly threatened due to many anthropogenic activities and considering their importance in recycling oxygen, preventing erosion, biodiversity habitats etc. This study was carried out to determine the diversity and population status of trees. A 50km2 plot was studied using the line transect method, and the Point Centered Quartet technique was deployed to enumerate standing tree biomass. Total Height, Diameter at Breast Height and Crown cover were also measured and recorded. The results showed that 200 trees spread across fifteen (15) families and forty (40) species were identified. The Fabaceae Family had more representatives 12 (30%) while Bignoniaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Meliaceae, Sapotaceae, Rutaceae and Olecaceae had 1 (2.5%) representation each. Parkia biglobosa had highest abundance 37 (18.5%) while Anacardium ocidentale, Brachystegia eurycoma, Ceiba pentandra, Cocos nucifera, Combretum molle, Ficus thoninngii, Khaya senegalensis, Haematostaphis barterii, Lannea microcarpa, Limonia. acidissima, Mangifera indica, Mitragyna inermis, Nauclea latifolia, Newbouldia laevis, Psidium guajava and Tamarindus indica all recorded the least abundance of 1 (0.5%). Diversity indices of Hʹ=2.65 (North), Hʹ=2.49 (South), Hʹ=2.72 (East) and Hʹ=2.37 (West) were recorded. The results also showed that 90% of the tree species enumerated are in need of serious conservation efforts. Parkia biglobosa had the highest Importance Value (46.84%) while Psidium guajava recoded the least (2.21%). It was then concluded that trees in Bakin-dutse community of Ardo-kola LGA needs conserving, hence, we suggest that a concerted effort from Governmental Organizations, Non-Governmental Organization and the Local Community to curtail the rapid decline in the population of these important biodiversity resources.