Abstract
Alpha diversity indices quantify the uncertainty in predicting the species identity of an individual. Quantitative indices on species composition and distribution are vital to understanding the trend and species status of an ecosystem for conservation management. However, among the forest ecosystems in Taraba state, Bakin Dutse and Wasaji uneven forests are one of the least studied areas, especially in terms of tree species status. This research work aims at assessing alpha diversity and species status of selected uneven forests in Taraba state, Nigeria; to provide baseline knowledge for conservation management. In total, 102 tree species from 74 genera and 41 families were present. Wasaji forest had the highest number (51) of tree species with a diversity index of 3.01, followed by Ngel-Nyaki uneven forest which had 32 tree species, and Bakin Dutse forest had 19 species. The tree species were evenly distributed in Wasaji forest (0.631) and Bakin dutse (0.625). The study area is rich in tree species. Strict policies should be maintained, this could improve the growth and productivity of forest ecosystems of the study area. The tree growth variables had an optimum tree stand density in all the natural forests. If effective conservation efforts are made, the lower tree diameter class would grow into mature trees and eventually replace those at the upper tree diameter class in the forests, which showed an inverse "J-shape" diameter distribution.
Article History
Received: Dec 17, 2021; Accepted: May 15, 2023; Published: Sep 30, 2023
Recommended Citation
Japheth, D. H.,
Ugbe, J. A.,
& Alfa, J. I.
(2023).
Alpha Diversity and Species Status of Uneven Forests in Eco-Zones of Taraba State, Nigeria,
Journal of Bioresource Management, 10
(3).
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Forest Management Commons, Population Biology Commons, Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecology Commons
