Importance Value Index Research Articles

Riparian Vegetation Structure of the Jengok River, Kutaliman, Kedungabanteng District, Banyumas Regency

Jengok River has a high value for the Kutaliman community. The community utilizes the ecosystem services of the Jengok River and is inseparable from the presence of riparian vegetation, which controls water quality. This study aimed to determine riparian vegetation structure on the Jengok River, Kutaliman, Kedungbanteng district, and Banyumas Regency. The research was conducted in October-November 2022 in the Jengok riparian zone using a quadrat transect with sizes 20x20 m2 for trees dan 2x2 m2 for understoreys. Data were analyzed using the Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H'), the Modified Hill's Ratio Evenness Index (e'), the Margalef Richness Index (DMg), and the Important Value Index (IVI). The results show that the diversity of riparian vegetation based on the Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H') is a moderate category, and the Evenness Index (e') is the distribution of individuals per species evenly. Furthermore, the Margalef Richness Index (DMg) shows 4.51 for trees and 4.34 for understorey. The highest IVI in the tree stratum was Lansium domesticum Corrêa. In contrast, in the understorey stratum was Musa paradisiacal L. This indicates both species have an essential role in their community

Natural Regeneration Potential of Tree Flora at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park (Bsmsp), Dulahazara, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh

The aim of this study was to evaluate the natural regeneration status of tree flora at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park (BSMSP) in Dulahazara, Cox’s Bazar. Six blocks were created within the safari park to explore regeneration potential. A total of 41 sample plots of 5m × 5m size, each centered in the middle of a 20m × 20m vegetation survey plot, was taken. In total, 835 seedlings representing 56 tree species under 29 families were recorded. Euphorbiaceae was the dominant family with 8 species followed by Myrtaceae (6 species) and Combretaceae (4 species). The highest Family Relative Density (FRD) was represented by Myrtaceae (26.95%) followed by Euphorbiaceae (16.05%) and Dipterocarpaceae (12.93%). Euphorbiaceae showed the maximum Family Relative Diversity Index FRDI (14.29%) followed by Myrtaceae (10.71%) and Combretaceae (7.14%). The highest Family Importance Value Index (FIVI) was observed in Myrtaceae (37.66%), whereas Euphorbiaceae and Dipterocarpaceae represented 30.33% and 18.29%, respectively. Species in the order of descending value of Importance Value Index (IVI) were Syzygium fruticosum (24.10), Aporosa wallichii (12.30), Dipterocarpus costatus (12.10), Dipterocarpus alatus (11.60) and Fernandoa adenophylla (11.60). The regeneration percentage of seed-originated individuals was 72%, whereas the rest 28% individuals were from coppices. The onset of safe guard and preserve trees with proper management could contribute conserving native gene pool contribution to ecotourism. J. Biodivers. Conserv. Bioresour. Manag. 2023, 9(1): 1-12

Effect of Tree Species Composition and Food Selectivity on the Population Density of Sclater’s Guenon (Cercopithecus sclateri Pocock 1904) in Forest Patches of Lagwa, Aboh-Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria

Aims: Effect of tree species composition and food selectivity on the population density of the Sclater’s guenon was carried out to determine how habitat composition and food preferences affect population density of the Sclater’s monkeys in the study area.
 Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out in forest patches of Lagwa community in Aboh-Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State (December 2019-November 2021).
 Study Design: The point centered quarter method was used to collect data on trees species, while the visual observation and line transect methods was used to collect data on food preference and population density of the monkeys.
 Methodology: The research was carried out within the wet and dry season. Faecal examination was used for collecting information on plant and fruit species consumed.
 Results: The most dominant tree species were Khaya ivorensis and Treculia africana with important value index (IVI) of 35.13 and 26.73 respectively, while Bosqueia angolensis was the least dominant species with IVI of 0.99. Tree species with diameter at breast height class of 41cm and above were absent in Eziudo, Obo and Umunekere communities. Dacryodes edulis, Elaeis guinensis, Mangifera indica and Musa balbisiana were the most consumed plant species. The mean troop sizes were 3.21±1.42 for the dry season and 2.78±1.25 for the wet season, with troop density for both seasons as 0.03±0.02.
 Conclusion: The findings presents the relationship between the Sclater’s monkey’s diet and their habitat, and how habitat changes can cause changes in the feeding pattern, type of food and meals consumed. Sensitization campaigns and provision of alternative food sources for humans can reduce disturbance of the habitat and further sustain the population of the monkeys.

Changes in Floral Diversity due to Livelihood Pressures in the Eco-sensitive Zone of Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary in Ri Bhoi District of Meghalaya

The challenges in the management of diverse flora impacted by anthropogenic factors in areas governed by different land tenure systems are enormous notwithstanding lying in a classified biodiversity hot spot region in Meghalaya in North- east India. The attributes of the plant population in protected areas like Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary (NWLS), Nongkhyllem Forest (NRF), and District Council governed Eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) were studied using Important Value Index (IVI), Shannon’s and Weiner Diversity Index and Sorenson’s similarity index. Shorea robusta C.F.Gaertn., Tectona grandis Linn. L.f., Schima wallichii (D.C.) Korth, had the highest IVI value of 64, 56, 42, etc. respectively, while the diversity index showed maximum values of 0.78 in recorded forest area and minimum of 0.60 under district council area. Similarity index ranged between 16.67 % and 39.22 %. The species richness and diversity in the recorded forest area was higher compared to the forest under the district council. In addition, tree girth and density of other species were determined. The study revealed that the cultivation of betel nut (Areca catechu L.), betel leaf (Piper betle L.), broom (Thysanolaena maxima Kuntze) and banana (Musa spp.) though for livelihood and income generation contributed to vegetation alteration in the district council forest area. Strict enforcement of ESZ laws & creating alternative livelihood opportunities can help minimize biodiversity loss.

Diversity and Biotic Index of Wild Pioneer Plants as Potential Bioindicators of Crude Oil-Contaminated Soil in Siak Regency, Riau Province, Indonesia

This study aims to determine the spatial variations in the diversity of wild pioneer plants along the gradation of crude oil-polluted soils and to analyze their biotic potential as a bioindicator of crude oil-contaminated soils in Siak Regency. Sampling was done in three oil wells using a purposive sampling method (center, edge, far from the well) measuring 1 x 1 m2. The soil at each contamination gradation was composited and analyzed for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) content. Vegetation data were analyzed using biotic indices such as density, Shannon-Wiener distribution index, species richness, rate of endemism, and importance value index. Potential bioindicator was analyzed by regression analysis, biplot, and IndVal. The results showed spatial variations in colonization, diversity, and structure of pioneer plants along the gradation of oil contamination. Species from the Cyperaceae, notably Scleria sumatrensis, Cyperus rotundus, and Fimbristylis ovata, were found in the center of the contamination area and resistant to oil contamination. The regression and biplot analysis revealed that along with the increasing soil TPH, the species richness and diversity index tended to decline, but the rate of endemism increased. IndVal analysis showed that C. rotundus and S. sumatrensis showed a potential bioindicators of oil-contaminated soils with TPH content of 2,700 to 3,300 ppm, while F. ovata, Panicum repens, and Imperata cylindrica was potential for TPH 692 to 851 ppm. Mimosa pudica was a sensitive plant and found on the soil TPH 73 ppm.

Diversity and Biotic Index of Wild Pioneer Plants as Potential Bioindicators of Crude Oil-Contaminated Soil in Siak Regency, Riau Province, Indonesia

This study aims to determine the spatial variations in the diversity of wild pioneer plants along the gradation of crude oil-polluted soils and to analyze their biotic potential as a bioindicator of crude oil-contaminated soils in Siak Regency. Sampling was done in three oil wells using a purposive sampling method (center, edge, far from the well) measuring 1 x 1 m2. The soil at each contamination gradation was composited and analyzed for Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon (TPH) content. Vegetation data were analyzed using biotic indices such as density, Shannon-Wiener distribution index, species richness, rate of endemism, and importance value index. Potential bioindicator was analyzed by regression analysis, biplot, and IndVal. The results showed spatial variations in colonization, diversity, and structure of pioneer plants along the gradation of oil contamination. Species from the Cyperaceae, notably Scleria sumatrensis, Cyperus rotundus, and Fimbristylis ovata, were found in the center of the contamination area and resistant to oil contamination. The regression and biplot analysis revealed that along with the increasing soil TPH, the species richness and diversity index tended to decline, but the rate of endemism increased. IndVal analysis showed that C. rotundus and S. sumatrensis showed a potential bioindicators of oil-contaminated soils with TPH content of 2,700 to 3,300 ppm, while F. ovata, Panicum repens, and Imperata cylindrica was potential for TPH 692 to 851 ppm. Mimosa pudica was a sensitive plant and found on the soil TPH 73 ppm.

Altitudinal Variation and Soil Characterstics Effect on Forest Communities of North Western Himalayan Region of Uttarakhand, India

The present study was conducted at Dandachali forest of Tehri Forest Division, North-Western part of Himalaya. Surveys and sampling of the vegetation were done using standard ecological assessment methods with an aim to study the soil status at community level. During the study six different forest communities’ viz., Pinus roxburghii- Quercus leucotrichophora mixed forest, Pinus roxburghii pure forest, Pinus roxburghii- Rhododendron arboreum mixed forest, Cedrus deodara- Pinus wallichiana mixed forest, Cedrus deodara- Rhododendron arboreum mixed forest and Rhododendron arboreum- Quercus leucotrichophora mixed forest were taken for the above mentioned study. Importance Value Index (IVI) were observed maximum (271.57) in Pinus roxburghii community then Pinus roxburghii- Quercus leucotrichophora mixed forest IVI (166.69). The soil pH recorded highest (pH 6.60) in Cedrus deodara - Pinus wallichiana mixed forest. Cedrus deodara - Rhododendron arboreum mixed forest community reflected maximum (27.44%) soil moisture content. However organic carbon (1.39%), nitrogen (1202.49 kg/ha.) and phosphorus (31.36 kg/ha) was highest in Pinus roxburghii – Quercus leucotrichophora mixed forest. Potassium observed maximum (351.00 kg/ha.) in Cedrus deodara - Rhododendron arboreum mixed forest. Community wise there was change in soil nutrient status whereas, altitude showed no such variations.

Vegetation and soil ecology of threatened Himalayan Trillium habitats in Kashmir Himalaya

Understanding the vegetation and soil ecology of natural habitats harbouring threatened species is critical in conservation planning and restoration. The present study investigated the vegetation composition and soil physico‐chemical properties of natural habitats of Trillium govanianum – a threatened Himalayan endemic species. We laid 120 quadrats across eight randomly selected sites where the species was growing in the Kashmir Himalaya. We collected the soil samples from these sites and determined soil physico‐chemical properties using standard methods. Across all the sites, we found a total of 57 plant species with dominance of Rosaceae and Ranunculaceae. The importance value index (IVI) results revealed that Fragaria nubicola, Corydalis diphylla, Galium aparine, and Leucanthemum vulgare, were the dominant species in T. govanianum habitats. The density, abundance and IVI of three‐leaf vegetative plants was higher than one‐leaf vegetative and three‐leaf reproductive plants across all the study sites. We found that T. govanianum alone forms 23.5% positive, 0 negative, 76.4% random co‐occurrences with other associated species in its habitats. Our results reveal that the variations in vegetation composition among the sites was influenced by differences in soil properties. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that several soil properties such as organic carbon (OC), nitrogen, potassium, and sulphur were concentrated in five sites, namely Dara, Drung, Bangus, Gulmarg and Doodhpathri, which also showed the highest density, frequency, and abundance of T. govanianum. Overall, our study contributes quantitative information on the vegetation and soil ecology of T. govanianum‐habitats, which in turn can help in developing conservation strategies for this threatened species, and its sustainable management and habitat restoration.

Economic Prospects of some Ecosystem Services Accessed by Communities around Girei Forest Reserve of Adamawa State

The economic prospects of ecosystem services accessed by communities around Girei forest reserve were investigated. This was as a result of over dependence on the forest reserve as a source of livelihood. A stratified random sampling was used to interview 180 household heads on their socio-economic characteristics and the benefits they derived from the forest reserve. Relevant descriptive statistical tools were used to analyze the data. The results showed that most households were headed by males 91.3% while 8.7% of the households were headed by females. The mean annual income of the respondents was ₦267,401. A lot of benefits were obtained from the forest reserve such as honey, firewood, poles, medicines, grass etc. The estimated annual monetary value of ecosystem provisioning services obtained from the forest reserve is ₦25,907,400 per annum. However, due to the enormous benefits derived from the forest reserve and the unsustainable harvest of the forest resources as a source of livelihood, quantitative assessment of the indigenous tree species in Girei forest reserve was also carried out. To achieve these;;the relative frequency, density, relative dominance, and importance value index of tree species in the forest reserve were determined. The tree with the highest dominance Tamarindus indica (39.1) while the least is Prosopis africana (0.54). The importance value index shows that Tamarindus indica (28.67) has the highest value index while the least is Parkia biglobosa (1.90). The result of diversity of the tree species was 1.941 using Shanno’s diversity index which indicates uncertainty of the species in the study area. Therefore, there is need for urgent concerted management and policy actions which are geared towards monitoring the health and integrity of Girei forest reserve such it can continue to generate ecosystem services which are beneficial to the present and future generations.

Effect of silvicultural treatment of individual selection on the horizontal structure of a pine-oak forest in northern Mexico

In sustainable forest management it is essential to conserve and maintain biodiversity, the floristic composition and the mixture of its species. For this purpose, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the selection silvicultural treatment as a function of time, on the horizontal structure of a Pine-Oak Forest in northern Mexico. Nine sampling points were established to analyze the structure of the Initial Condition of the forest in 2012, the Recruitment of 2022 and the Final Condition of 2022. In addition, the Jaccard similarity coefficient and the Margalef wealth index were estimated. Likewise, Shannon true diversity index, the importance value index and the forest value index were calculated for each species. The analysis of variance with a confidence of 95% was used to evaluate the studied variables, multiple comparisons were made with Duncan's test to group the species in ranges of statistical importance. The results indicated that the forest not presented a change in similarity, richness and diversity of species due to the application of the selection silvicultural treatment, without statistical differences according to the mix and distribution of the species in the forest, this indicates that selective logging does not change the composition of forest species. Regarding the indices of true diversity, value of importance and forest value by species, no significant differences were observed in terms of the application of silvicultural treatment. According to these results, it was possible to identify groups of forest importance and value, where Pinus durangensis Martínez was the most representative species.

Botanical diversity, structure and composition in cocoa agroforest systems in Alta Verapaz, Guatemala

The tree composition in cocoa agroforestry systems (CAFS) in Guatemala is valued for providing a number of ecosystem services. Despite the importance of the trees in these systems, little is known about the tree species richness and its contribution to the conservation of diversity. We studied the botanical composition of CAFS of different ages in the Alta Verapaz department of Guatemala. In total, 70 survey plots with a size of 2500 m2 were established. An inventory was carried out in each sampling unit, recording the tree species present and measuring the diameter at breast height (DBH 1.30 m) and the height of each tree. The Importance Value Index (IVI) was calculated and species richness and the similarity between sites were evaluated. A total of 2519 trees, belonging to 59 species and 34 families were identified. The species with the highest IVI was Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth. The CAFSs with the highest and lowest species richness were those of 9-12 and 27 years old, respectively (H´=1.99, H´=0.34). This behavior can be explained by the fact that growers work to enrich the agroforestry systems with a broad diversity of species in the first years which they then begin to harvest at around 16 years of age. A discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) and the Jaccard Similarity Index were used to show that several AFS were similar in terms of composition and botanical diversity. Given the tree diversity within the CAFS, these can be acknowledged as areas with good potential for the conservation of overall biodiversity. We recommend education programs for local growers about the benefits of shade management during the production cycle of cocoa to preserve the botanical composition and structural complexity of the AFS.

Floristic composition and structure of Eurycoma longifolia habitat in Muka Kuning Nature Tourism Park, Riau Islands, Indonesia

Abstract. Susilowati A, Rachmat HH, Yulita KS, Wijaya K. 2023. Floristic composition and structure of Eurycoma longifolia habitat in Muka Kuning Nature Tourism Park, Riau Islands, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 2836-2842. Eurycoma longifolia Jack, locally called as pasak bumi,is a popular medicinal plant which is known to have properties in curing various diseases. The root of E. longifolia is the organ that has the highest aphrodisiac content so hunting for the roots of E. longifolia destructively causes a significant population decline. Information regarding vegetation community around the habitat of this species is crucial in determining appropriate conservation actions. Muka Kuning Nature Tourism Park (TWA) located in Batam Island, Riau Islands Province is one of the natural habitats of E. longifolia, yet information regarding the state of vegetation in this area has not been obtained. This study aims to determine the floristic composition and structure of vegetation in the habitat of E. longifolia in Muka Kuning Nature Tourism Park focusing on the parameters of Important Value Index (IVI) and biodiversity indices. Vegetation analysis was applied using purposive sampling method based on the presence of E. longifolia individuals. The results showed that the IVI of E. longifolia at the growth stage of seedlings, saplings, poles and trees were 18.1%, 21.9%, 12.14% and 0%, respectively. No individual E. longifolia was found at the tree level which might be attributable to the habitus of this species which is small-sized tree or woody shrub with maximum height of 15 m. The vegetation community at the studied area had Shanon-Wienner diversity index (H') from 2.27 to 3.12 and the Evenness index from 0.88 to 0.98, which is categorized as high. The results of this study imply that the natural habitat of pasak bumi in the TWA Muka Kuning is classified as good and tighter area protection is highly recommended to protect valuable biodiversity in it including E. longifolia.

Analisis Vegetasi Tumbuhan Liar Yang Berpotensi Sebagai Refugia Di Area Pertanian Padi Kecamatan Jombang Untuk Penyusunan E-Katalog

There are several agricultural areas in Denanyar Village, Jombang District. large distribution of refugia The purpose of this research is to explain the types of plants. wild, which has the potential to be a refugia in the rice farming area of Jombang District, explain relative density (KR), relative frequency (FR), relative dominance (DR), and important value index (INP) of refugia in the rice farming area of Jombang District and find out the results of the preparation of the e-catalog from the results of the analysis of plant vegetation. wild, which has the potential to be a refugia in the rice farming area of Jombang District. This study uses a quadratic sampling method with a plot size of 10 m x 10 m, which totals 10 plots. Results of research on plant vegetation analysis wild, which has the potential to be a refugia in the rice farming area of Jombang District. For the development of e-catalog teaching materials, 338 individuals, consisting of 11 plants, including: Mimosa pudica (Embarrassed Daughter), Eleusine indica (Grass reeds), Ricardia scarbra (coarse clover), Digitaria ciliaris (kebo grass), Ipomoea quamiochit (Earth detail), Amaranthus (Spinach thorn), Euphorbia hirta L. (Patikan seeds), green poinsettia (Green Kastuba), Bidens pilosa (Ajeran), and Ipomoea obscura (star white kale), and Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkung). The refugia Dominating the rice farming area is Eleusine indica (Grass Lulangan). Because in each plot there are these plants, so the relative density 100%, and the highest important value index (INP) at the weed level is 132.366%, while the level of shrubs is 88.145%. Research results later developed into an e-catalog that explains the types of wild plants that are potential as a refugia consisting of 11 plants consisting of Mimosa pudica (Embarrassed Daughter), Eleusine indica (Palm Grass), Ricardia scarbra (coarse clover), Digitaria ciliaris (kebo grass), and Ipomoea quamiochit (detailed earth), Amaranthus (spinach spines), Euphorbia hirta L. (patikan seeds), Green poinsettia (green Kastuba), Bidens pilosa (Ajeran), and Ipomoea obscura (Kale) white star), Ipomoea aquatica (Kangkung), along with its classification and description Morphologically, the e-catalog was developed with Wordpress.

Composition and similarity of vegetation types in the Mount Seulawah Agam geothermal area, Aceh Besar District

The Mount Seulawah Agam area is an active volcanic area that has an impact on the emergence of symptoms of volcanism. Such environmental conditions will cause the vegetation that grows in the area to be unique and not commonly found in other areas. Apart from that, the area is still relatively natural and has not experienced much disturbance by human activities. This study aims to determine the composition and similarity of vegetation types in the geothermal area of Mount Seulawah Agam, Aceh Besar District. Data collection in the field was carried out using the multiple square method which was placed in a stratified sampling based on the specified soil temperature zone. Each zone was laid out in 4 square plots in a systematic random manner. Each plant contained in the observation plot is recorded in the name of the plant species using a flora identification book, and the number of individuals of each type is recorded. Data analysis was carried out using the Important Value Index analysis, and the Sorenson Similarity Index. The results showed that there were 65 species from 611 individual plants identified starting from the growth rate of seedlings, sapling, poles, and trees. The similarity index of plant species at each growth stage in the Seulawah Agam geothermal area, Aceh Besar District generally has different species similarity in each observation zone, that is, the average is below 50%. This condition indicates that there are significant differences in plant structure at various growth rates in each zone

Optimization agroforestry to address green economy and climate change in Manokwari Regency, West Papua

Farm (kebun) and yard (Pekarangan), as traditional agroforestry systems that have been developed over a long period of time by trial and error based on the social, cultural, and economics of the local community. In general, the green economy value of the results of local agroforestry systems, both gardens, and yards, provides low benefits based on the real costs incurred. Increasing the optimization of local agroforestry systems by taking into account the economy and carbon stock are needed in an effort to increase the green economy based on local agroforestry and mitigation efforts from the forestry sector. Data was collected from households of Bremi Village, District of Manokwari Regency using a purposive sampling method through the bio-physic inventory, and economic analysis. Through the results of the optimization of gardens and yards, there was an increase in the important value index, species diversity index, carbon stock, and economy by 91% and 53% respectively. Through the optimization of agroforestry practices (OAPs), the production scale is expected to improve the local community income as well as to preserve typical species, environmental conservation, long-term strategies for extreme climate conditions, and support the Low Carbon Development Indonesia program (LCDI) in West Papua.

Planting pattern and space utilization of home gardens of various ethnicities: Case Study in Waraitama Village, Manimeri District, Teluk Bintuni Regency

The ethnic diversity in Teluk Bintuni Regency, especially in the Waraitama village, will cause the characteristics of the home garden that be managed for different purposes. This study aims to determine the pattern arrangement of vegetation and space utilization in the home garden. This research was conducted in the home gardens of Waraitama Village, Manimeri District, Teluk Bintuni Regency. The data collection method was carried out by purposive sampling on 38 home gardens overgrown with woody plants. Data was taken by the census, i.e., all woody plants with a diameter of more than 10 cm that grows in the home garden. The data were taken in the form of cropping patterns and the composition of plants that make up the home garden. Data analysis includes the Important Value Index (IVI), Diversity Index (H′), and SEXiFS visualization. The results showed, ethnic Papuans have a higher IVI than the other three ethnic groups, with values of 25%. Ethnic Javanese have a higher Diversity Index (H′) with a value of 2.92, respectively. The diversity index value (H′) 2.92 indicates that the variety of species in the ethnic Javanese home garden is middle.

Weed phyto-sociology and diversity in relation to conservation agriculture and weed management strategies in Northwestern Himalayas of India

To create weed management techniques capable of improving agroecosystem sustainability, it is essential to comprehend the different weed flora composition and diversification dynamics in conservation agriculture production systems. In North Western Himalaya from 2018 to 2020, evaluation of various tillage techniques with and without residue incorporation and weed management techniques on diverse weed flora composition was performed. Fifteen treatment amalgamations of five tillages viz. CT (conventional tillage) in maize-CT in wheat, CT-ZT (ZT, zero tillage), ZT-ZT, ZT-ZTR (ZTR, zero tillage in amalgamation with remainder integration) & ZTR-ZTR and three weed management practices viz. H (suggested herbicide in maize)-H (suggested herbicide in wheat), IWM-IWM (IWM, integrated weed supervision) & HW-HW; (HW, hand weeding) were calculated in strip plot design. Significant differences (p = 0.05) of weed density and total weed count were recorded during summer (maize) and winter (wheat) seasons. Among tillage treatments, lowest weed population and total weed population were recorded in conservation tillage (ZTR-ZTR) in summer and conservative tillage followed by zero tillage in winter season (CT-ZT), respectively. IWM-IWM and H-H had a least weed population and total weed population in summer and winter seasons, respectively. Highest important value index during summer and winter seasons was recorded in Echinochloa colona (55.90%) and Avena ludoviciana (76.99%), respectively. Higher Shannon Wiener index and Evenness were recorded for CT+HW-CT+HW (1.83, 0.91) and ZT+IWM-ZTR+IWM (1.73, 0.86) which indicate higher weed species diversity during summer and winter seasons, respectively. ZTR-ZTR led to less diverse weed diversity compared to intensive conventional tillage (CT-CT) practices. However, higher Simpson’s diversity was recorded for CT+HW-CT+HW, i.e. 0.83 and 0.82 for maize and wheat, respectively, compared to the other conventional tillage treatments. This study helps in understanding the crop-weed relation such that the implementation of sound and economic weeds management strategies. Further, long-term experiments are required in order to interpret the complicated relationships of diverse weed species under different tillage and weed management strategies for sustainable and adoptive conservation agriculture production system for North Western Himalayas.

The Effect of Changes in Forest Area Designation on a Diversity of Undergrowth Vegetation

Biodiversity is a term used for the degree of diversity of living natural resources, including the number and abundance of genes, species, and ecosystems in an area. Consists of various forms of life, their ecological role, and the diversity of germplasm contained therein. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of changes in forest area designation on the diversity of understorey species. Data analysis used the method of placing plots in the lane using the plotted path method, with a plot area of 2 m x 2 m, by recording all understorey plants from sprouts to a seedling height of no more than 1.5 m. And also using the analysis of the important value index (INP) and species diversity. The results obtained from this study can be concluded that the species diversity in plantation forests is 3.470, in protected areas is 3.525 and in natural forests is 3.093. This shows that there is no serious effect on plant species diversity because the species diversity obtained shows results that are not much different between plantation forests, protected areas, and natural forests.

Views of Specialists on Abandoned Building Project in FCT - Abuja, Nigeria

This research aimed at investigating the causes and effects of abandoned building construction project in Abuja Municipal Area Councils (AMAC) of FCT, Nigeria so as to proffer solution to the problem(s). This research uses a qualitative method of research in which a structured close ended questionnaire was prepared to capture information on the causes and effects of abandoned building construction projects in AMAC. It was on this basis that a structured questionnaire with Likert Scale design method was adopted. One hundred and ten (110) consultants obtained from professional bodies like Council for Regulation of Engineering (COREN), Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria (CORBON), Architect Registration Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Quantity Surveyors Registration Board of Nigeria (QSRBN) and Procurement Consultants were contacted to get their views on abandonment of building construction project. Eighty-Eight (88) responses were obtained to give a return rate of 80%. All information found were analysed using the Relative Importance Index (R.I.I) formula. The higher the Relative Importance Index value, the more significant is the cause or effect of abandoning building project. Sixteen (16) important causes of abandoning building construction project and nine (9) main effect of abandoning building construction project were identified. This research therefore concluded that if the causes and effects of abandoning building construction projects are corrected through the application of numerous recommendations made on this research, building construction project abandonment will be history in the research area and indeed the country at large.

Vegetation Analysis of Target Species for Feeding Lesser Yellow Bird of Paradise (Paradisaea minor jobiensis Rothschild, 1897) in the Imbowiari Forest Area of Barawai Village, Yapen Islands District, Papua Province, Indonesia

The research aims to determine the plant species, structure, and composition of the food sources of P. minor jobiensis in the Imbowiari Barawai forest area, Yapen Islands Regency. The method used in this research the method of observation, interviews, documentation, literature, and the checkered line method. Data analysis techniques used are density, dominance, frequency, relative density, relative dominance, relative frequency, important value index, and diversity index. The results of the study found 6 species of plants as food for P. minor jobiensis and spread at the level of seedlings, poles, saplings, and trees namely Elaeocarpus sphaericus, Ficus benjamina, Gnetum gnemon, Syzygium sp., Myristica sp., and Palaquium ambounense