Search results

1

Prognostic Crown Diameter equations for a Mixed Species Plantation in Southern Nigeria

100%

Buochuama A., Oyebade B. A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 16

117-129

EN

The dimension of a tree crown has an apparent effect on and is strongly linked with the growth of the tree and its diverse parts. Crown information is an important part of numerous growth and yield models. Hence, empirical predictive equations for crown diameter of a mixed species plantation in Southern Nigeria were developed and evaluated in this study. In studying this phenomenon, total enumeration of the selected species in the mixed species plantation was carried out. Moreover, major growth attributes of 185 trees of six species, namely; Khaya ivorensis, Entandrophragma angolense, Terminalia ivorensis, Tectona grandis, Treculia africana and Mansonia altissima were measured and estimated using mensurational methods. Descriptive, correlation, regression and residual analyses were then applied to the quantitative data obtained from the mixed species plantation. For all the species, the best adjudged model with the best fit indices was Ln(cd) = Ln(b0) + b1·CPA·dbh, R2 = 0.936, SEE = 0.037; an indication of parsimonious potential of a predictive exponential model. This paper, therefore, revealed the possibilities of predicting crown diameter for a mixed species plantation in Nigeria with ample prospects for sustainable planning and management decisions that are relevant for any mixed species plantation.

2

Fuelwood Consumption and Tree Species Extinction, a Case Study of Kartala Forest in Western Mbadjini of Region of Comoros

100%

Moussa A., Onuorah M., Luyiga S.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2022

|

vol. 43

138-150

EN

Woodfuel has been the most dominant fuel for cooking in households in developing countries where more than half of the world's population resides. High fuelwood consumption contributes to deforestation and forest degradation. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the rate of fuelwood consumption of households in the western Mbadjini region of Comoros. The study's approach is a quantitative/qualitative survey. Specifically, we use the weight-survey method to measure the daily fuelwood consumption per household and capita per day. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The result revealed an average rate of 15.1 kg of fuelwood consumed daily per household (15.1 kg/household/day) given an average per capita per day of 2.0 kg and 732 kg per capita per year (2.0 kg/person/day, 732 kg/capita/year). However, different rates of fuelwood consumption were obtained in different family sizes. Minimum, maximum, and large Family sizes consumed 9.9 kg, 17.4 kg, and 18.0 kg per day. Further, the results indicated that all the respondents were using fuelwood energy sources for cooking and all of them depend on this energy source for survival. Women were the leading fuelwood collectors (53.3%), followed by children (23.7%). Further, the study revealed that most respondents (96%) preferred using fuelwood for cooking their meals. The free collection of fuelwood from the forest (60%), the rapid cooking of meals due to the use of fuelwood (25%), and the belief that the meal tastes perfect when using fuelwood (15%) were the main reasons why respondents preferred using fuelwood energy. The most preferred tree species for fuelwood were Nuxia pseudodentata, Gyrostipula comarensis, Psidium catleanum, and Mangifera indica.

3

Species Diversity Associated with Salt Lick Utilization in Borgu sector of Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria

100%

Wahab M. K. A., Akinsorotan A. O., Idowu I. A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2020

|

vol. 31

146-154

EN

Salt licks play an important role in the health of wildlife by supplying the essential minerals required especially for herbivores. This study assessed nine mineral salt lick sites, fauna utilization and tree species diversity in response to threats encountered at the site. Systematic random sampling, quadrat sampling and transect survey were used as the methodological indices to carry out the research. The dominant tree species is Anogeissus leiocarpus while recessive species was Vitellaria paradoxa. Fauna distribution and abundance within and across mineral salt lick sites were observed. Kobs (Kobus kob) were highest while Tantalus monkey (Chlorocebus tantalus) and Warthog (Phacochoerus aethiopicus) had least encounter rate. Park management should implement conservation education, stringent policies against wildlife offences and constant surveillance to conserve biodiversity in protected ecological site. The overall benefits derived from salt licks for wildlife health, majorly through herbivores are crucial in maintaining a healthy wildlife community for their reproduction and survival.

4

Above and Below-Ground Decomposition of Leaf Litter in Leucaena leucocaephala Plantation of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Nigeria

100%

Oladoye A. O., Oyebamiji N. A., Ayoku Y. B.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2019

|

vol. 23

211-220

EN

A decomposition study was carried out on the leaf litters of Leucaena leucocaephala to determine the rate of decomposition of its leaves with respect to its placement on above or below the ground levels in L. leucocaephala plantations of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. In the study, leaf litter were randomly handpicked from the forest floor, of this, 40 g each were weighed into thirty (30) litter bags of 2 mm mesh size in which 15 were randomly placed on the forest floor (above-ground) and the remaining 15 were buried in the soil between 5-10 cm depth (below-ground). Data were analysed using descriptive statistical techniques such as percentage, while inferential statistics (simple linear regression) was used to determine relationships between various nutrient elements and days of decomposition (DOD). We noted that the percentage of mass loss of leaf litter increased with time in days after deposit and was higher (29.93%, 32.43 % and 33.25%, 41.65%) at 80 to 100 days of placement above- and below-ground, respectively. Moreover, the exchangeable basic cations and chemical compositions of litters were not consistent with respect to DOD. Regression analysis of nitrogen (N) and organic carbon (OC) showed that these elements significantly contributed to the high (86 %) overall decomposition of litter (p < 0.05, p < 0.01) below-ground level. It is, therefore, concluded that decomposition of leaf litters occur faster below ground than above ground within the forest plantation.

5

Impact of soil amendments on the early growth of Streculia setigera Del. in the nursery

100%

Buochuama A., Akhabue E. F.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2020

|

vol. 30

|

issue 2

287-297

EN

There exists an inadequate research on the propagation and nutrient needs of most tropical tree species. Hence, this work involves the developmental impact of soil amendments on the early growth of Streculia setigera Del. in the nursery. Different soil amendments; poultry waste (F1), goat manure (F2), cow manure (F3) and the control, normal soil (F4) were applied to several viable seeds of Streculia setigera in the nursery. The seeds were subjected to the same routine nursery practices. The experiment was laid in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) and lasted for ninety (90) days. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used in the data analysis. The findings revealed that the entire growth response of Streculia setigera seedlings were only sparely affected by the soil amendments (P<0.05). F3 was found to be the most preferred soil amendment for this species, followed by F2 and F4 consecutively. The result obtained from F1 was very poor and thus it is not ideal for this species.

6

Analysis of Farmers’ Perception and Adoption of Agroforestry Technology as Climate Change Mitigation Strategy in Edo State, Nigeria

100%

Owombo P. T., Idumah F. O., Adepoju A. O.

|

vol. 21

16-27

EN

Climate change constitutes a major threat to environment and agriculture in developing countries. The study was, therefore, conducted to assess the socioeconomic characteristics of farmers’ perception of agroforestry as climate change mitigation strategy, and to determine the factors influencing agroforestry adoption as climate change mitigation strategy in the study area. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 300 respondents, out of which information from 299 respondents were suitable for analysis. Data were collected by means of a structured questionnaire, and were analysed with the aid of descriptive statistics and probit modeling. Data were collected on socioeconomic characteristics of respondents and farmers’ perception of climate elements and agroforestry techniques in mitigating climate change. Results of analysis showed that farmers were in their active ages and are mostly married. Farmers also perceived that temperature and sunshine hour were on the increase, while they also perceived that agroforestry is soil fertility enhancing. Probit analysis showed that perceived soil fertility enhancement of the technology (p≤0.10), perceived drought controlling capacity of the technology (p≤0.05), farm size (p≤0.01) and membership of association (p≤0.10) were positive determinants of farmers’ adoption of agroforestry as climate change mitigation strategy in the area. The paper concludes that farmers should be encouraged to belong to farming associations, and should be educated on the importance of agroforestry in fertility enhancement and drought control.

7

Influence of Deforestation in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria

100%

Ojo B. S., Alaye S. A., Buochuama A., Martins A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 18

|

issue 2

62-71

EN

There are ample facts that the whole world is facing an ecological crisis by reason of heavy deforestation. Thus, this study assesses the influence of deforestation on some selected villages in Borgu Local Government Area, Niger State. Data were collected from members of the community using a set of structured questionnaire. This was then analyzed using descriptive statistics (percentages and frequency count). Findings reveal that the major occupation is trading (33.3%), followed by farming (30%). The causes of deforestation in the study area include: fuelwood removal (31.7%), urbanization (25.0), logging (20.0%), subsistence farming (15.8%), population growth and overpopulation (3.3%), commercial farming (2.5%) and inequitable distribution of wealth and power (1.7%). Global warming (31.7%) was the major effect generated by deforestation in the study area, followed by soil erosion (24.2%). Encouragement of better agroforestry practices (30.8%) was seen as the major strategy for reducing deforestation by the respondents. Other best practices include: afforestation (27.5%), public enlightenment (13.3%), enforcement of forest land and policy (12.5%), forest education (8.3%), forest conservation and preservation (7.5%).

8

Obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum.): poor products development wood but good environmental tree in Nigeria

100%

Adedeji G. A., Oladele A. T., Eludoyin O. S., Aiyeloja A. A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 18

|

issue 2

203-212

EN

Obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum.) is a large tropical tree, the wood products of which are either in solid or reconstituted forms. These items are extremely vulnerable to concomitant insect attack. Although established as a successful plantation species for veneering and plywood production, Obeche is also considered as a good environmental tree in Nigeria. However, there is very little specific information that substantiates this potential. We report on the organisms inducing biodeterioration of Obeche wood products and describe the characteristics of Obeche trees in terms of environmental suitability between 2012 and 2016. All the 47 Obeche wood-based products (OWBPs) studied, comprising 12 beehives, 10 food canteen stalls, 10 office tables, 10 laboratory cabinets and 5 office walls were economically and dominantly co-infested by beetles and termites. Interestingly, during the four-year observation period, all the eight Obeche trees encountered were found to exhibit high stability with excellent resistance to hollowness and to degradative pests, even at around 2 m Diameter at Breast Height (DBH). This reflects its robust biophysical protective barrier mechanisms. Additionally, there were observations of enhanced coexistence with other tree species, including shrubs and grasses. This indicates a tolerance potential role at improving the relative contributions of several species (plants community) to ameliorate tropical environmental degradation.

9

Problems and Prospects of Tree Planting in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria

100%

Dantani A., Khalil A. M., Abanikanda J. O., Magaji U. A., Dantani M., Abubakar A., Sa’idu M., Yunus A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2024

|

vol. 53

186-202

EN

The study assessed the problems and prospects of tree planting in Kano metropolis, employing a mixed-methods approach utilizing both primary and secondary data sources. Simple random sampling was used in selecting LGAs, 180 questionnaires were administered and retrieved using proportional allocation. Data screening, organization, and analysis, including descriptive statistics and Chi-square test were conducted using SPSS version 23. The result revealed demographic characteristics of the respondents, indicating that the age group between 20-30 years had the highest response rate, with 64% of respondents being male and 36% female. Additionally, singles constituted the majority of respondents (64.91%), while urban dwellers accounted for 76.61%. The occupational distribution showed that 39% were business people, with farming and civil service having the lowest representation at 15%. In terms of educational qualifications, HND/BSc holders comprised 38% of the respondents, while FSCL had the lowest representation at 4.7%. The research also identified challenges in tree planting among urban dwellers, including inadequate land, tendering to maturity, lack of public enlightenment, low private involvement, poor government policy, poverty, and insufficient funding and planting materials. These challenges were emphasized with a Likert mean score of 3.025. Solutions include initiatives such as tax breaks, subsidies, and green space regulations can incentivize tree planting, while collaborative efforts involving public-private partnerships and community-based education campaigns are vital for widespread awareness and active involvement. Adequate funding remains a linchpin, and its securement through diverse channels ensures the long-term success of tree planting programs. Effective land use planning, incorporating zoning regulations and strategic establishment of nurseries, further contributes to a resilient and green urban environment. By addressing these facets comprehensively, cities can navigate challenges and cultivate thriving urban forests that benefit both the environment and the well-being of their residents.

10

Individual tree basal area equation for a young Tectona Grandis (Teak) plantation in Choba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

100%

Oyebade B. A., Anaba J. C.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 16

130-140

EN

An individual Tree Basal Area Equation was developed for a Young Tectona grandis plantation of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) Choba, Rivers State; using diameter at breast height (dbh), diameter at the base (db), crown diameter (CD), and crown projection area (CPA) as predictor variables. The individual basal area estimates were obtained from data collected from 437 trees in the five-year-old plantation of dimensional area of 2737.5m2.The individual trees were measured for dbh, CD, and db using traditional measuring techniques, while individual Basal Area (BA) and CPA were estimated from the data sets. The data collected were further subjected to descriptive, correlation and regression analyses with different empirical models, using STATISTICA statistical package. The results of the descriptive analyses produced a mean values of DBH of 7.89±0.0097 cm, BA with the mean value of 0.0052±0.0001 m2, DB with 32.64±0.397 cm, CD of 3.1004±0.041 m and CPA with a mean value of 8.1268±0.215 m2. The results of regression analyses and modelling with empirical non-linear basal area equations fitted with Quadratic models, Exponential models, Linear Fit models and Polynomial models on STATISTICA produced best fits estimates in accordance with residual analyses and fit indices such as Mean Prediction Residual (MPR), Standard Error of Estimate (SEE), Residual Coefficient Variation (RCV) and Prediction Sum of Squares (PRESS). The Quadratic equation (BA = bo + biCPA + DB2; R2 - 0.8959; SEE - 0.0004) after the evaluation procedures gave the most robust fit indices for the individual basal area, and was thus adjudged the best individual basal area equation for Tectona grandis plantations in the study area. This study has shown that the selected model can be effectively used for predicting individual tree basal area of Tectona grandis both within the study area and in any other Tectona grandis plantations and, hence, for management and for making timber harvest decisions.

11

Cross River State, Nigeria: A Global Visual Cultural and Forest Biodiversity Tourism Destination

100%

Oku E. E.

|

vol. 13

1-101

EN

The evidence of Cross River State in Nigeria as a global visual cultural, biodiversity and wildlife tourism distinction located in West Africa is presented using photo-inventory. A socio-scientific photo-sourcing and explanation was carried out. The ancient city of Calabar that received early Christian missionaries to Nigeria is the capital of Cross River State in Nigeria, West Africa now host the Africa’s annual biggest street party (Calabar carnival). The ancient house of Mary Mitchell Slessor a Scottish missionary to Nigeria who stopped the ancient practice of killing of twins and multiple births built in 1848, stands in Calabar as a monument that attracts tourists from all parts of the world. The international Ekpe masquerade, boat and canoe race in Calabar, lebuko new yam festival in Ugep, Central Cross River are tourists attracted festivals. Being home of tropical forest with rare biodiversity added with wildlife, some mammals as endangered Gorilla, drill, chimpanzee and African black elephants, including different species of African Primates are seen in the protected zones of the National Park and Afi Wildlife Sanctuary. Photos of numerous huge ancient carved and engraved standing stones (Monoliths) dating back to 1200 BC are found in about 30 communities in Ikom, the Central part of Cross River State of Nigeria. Spectacular natural waterfalls for relaxation are in existence. The Obudu mountain Resort city exhibit the four weather type witness in Europe and America. The Resort is located on a mountain 1600 m high in the Northern Cross River State. Photos of the winding road from the bottom of the mountain to the top and nature dug swimming pools are places to visit.

12

The Effects of Forests on Economic Growth in Nigeria (1990 – 2015)

100%

Oyetunji P. O.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2019

|

vol. 23

254-265

EN

This study empirically examines the impact of forests on economic growth in Nigeria for the period of 1990 to 2015. Unit root tests were carried out using the Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) test, while the Bounds cointegration test was used to establish a long run relationship between the forests and other independent variables and economic growth. An Error Correction Model (ECM) was also employed to determine the nature of the long run relationship. The findings show that forests have a positive effect on economic growth, however, this is not statistically significant. This study recommends that the government should intensify its efforts in the forestry sector so as to improve the productivity of forest resources in Nigeria. Moreover, the Nigerian government should discourage illegal felling of trees and the importation of timber products, as well as engage and develop the rural communities to reduce the pressure on forest resources and ensure sustainable use. The study also recommends the sustainable use of forest resources through ecotourism and the development of the forestry value chain in Nigeria.

13

Contribution of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) to Livelihood of People in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria

100%

Fajobi E. A., Fingesi U. I.

|

vol. 21

77-89

EN

This study focused on the contribution of NTFPs species to the livelihood of Mokwa people, Niger state. It was undertaken to ascertain the proportion of humans involved in the exploitation of NTFPs in the study area, to determine the types of NTFPs exploited and their roles in the lives of the communities and to determine the actual contribution of NTFPs species to the livelihood of the Mokwa people. Data were collected using structured questionnaire and oral interviews to acquire information from sampled members of the Mokwa LGA communities. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (tables, chart, and graphs). The findings from this study indicate that NTFPs are abundant in the study area and are found in all the forested land areas within the communities. NTFPs collection for utilization is usually carried out throughout the year. All the respondents in Ja’agi, Kudu, Kpaki, and Mokwa town collect and use the NTFPs in food preparation for the family and for other purposes. The number of households involved in the collection of NTFPs was highest in the Ja’agi community (95%), while only (28%) households were involved in Mokwa town. The chi-square test revealed that there were high significant differences (P>0.05) between the number of respondents involved in the collection and non-collection of NTFPs in Mokwa LGA. Twenty (20) plant by-products and fruits were the major types of NTFPs being collected. Most NTFPs species were of medicinal plants, while some supplement everyday meals. It should be noted that Mokwa LGA communities earn some money from the collection of NTFPs - especially from plants such as Vitellaria paradoxa (73%) Pakia biglobosa (16%), and Mangifera indica (4%). Lack of jobs in the government established institutions is the major problem facing the communities. It is, therefore, recommended that provision of jobs and business opportunities will help improve the living standard of the people and hence reduce their effect on the forest resources.

14

Spatial Distribution of Nigerian Universities Offering Forestry Education using Geographic Information System

100%

Chukwu O., Ezenwenyi J. U., Mebude K. O.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 20

226-237

EN

The importance of forested areas to provide food, medicine and shelter and to maintaining a healthy environment cannot be overemphasized. Hence, handy information on the universities that offers forestry education is necessary. The study used a geographic information system to spatially distribute Universities in Nigeria that offer Forestry Education. The list of all the universities registered as awarding Forestry Degrees in Nigeria were obtained online from the National University Commission (NUC) register and Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) brochures. The corresponding coordinates of the universities were obtained using hand-held Global Positioning Systems and from satellite imagery. Quantum Geographic Information System was used to develop the universities spatial distribution. Only 31 out of the 34 universities identified as awarding forestry degrees were on the NUC list. Moreover, 61.8% of all of these universities were owned by the Federal Government, 32.4% by State Governments and only 5.9% were privately owned. Out of the universities recognized by NUC, the South-West geopolitical zone had the highest number (8), followed by South-South (7), North-West (5), North-Central (4), North-East (4) and South-East (3) with least. Non-uniformity was observed in Educational bodies offering studies in forestry, hence the government should invest more in forest research and education.

15

Predicting Basal Area Using Java Program in Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

100%

Ureigho U. N., Osho J. S. A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2017

|

vol. 13

122-129

EN

Individual tree growth models are important decision-making tools in forestry. This study evaluated the predictive ability for basal area, of a Java program derived from the algorithm of gamma distribution function. The input value was diameter at breast height. In generating and testing the program, a stratified random sampling technique was used to select four different age classes of teak plantation, namely: 11, 13, 22 and 59 years-old, respectively. Complete enumeration of trees (n = 433) was done for all the plots selected. Diameter at breast height (DBH) was measured with the aid of diameter girth tape, which was also used for basal area computation. Data obtained were processed into tree and stand levels. Parameters α and β for Gamma Distribution function (GDF) were estimated from growth data. The java program was then written based on the algorithm of Gamma distribution function for α, β and n parameters. Values of diameter at breast height fitted into the Java program shows that it was able to predict the basal area. Therefore, the predictive ability of the developed Java Program for basal area of individual and full stand teak trees demonstrates that it can be used for prediction of yield in forest stands.

16

Ecological influence of habitat structure on the diversity of fauna in Rivers State, Nigeria

100%

Abere S. A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 16

75-85

EN

Natural habitats are being degraded on a daily basis due to the increase in population and the need to put them to alternative use. This has cause a downturn in biodiversity. The habitat structure, however, plays a key role in species distribution and diversity, hence, the need for its protection. Animal species diversity has been reported to be dependent on the structure of the habitat. However, information on wildlife species in relation to habitat structure within Bonny Island forest has not been adequately documented. Therefore, wildlife diversity in Bonny Island was assessed. Herein, flora and fauna surveys were carried out on fixed transect lines using point centre quarter and line transect methods, respectively, in both the dry and wet seasons. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. Abundance of trees, shrubs, grasses and aquatic plant species in BSS (24, 13, 10 and 8, respectively) were higher than in BIS (8, 10, 10 and 10). Anthropogenic activities: hunting, fishing and other agricultural practices exerted higher pressure of 20.0%, 60.0% and 10.0%, respectively on wildlife resources during the dry rather than the wet seasons (17.5%, 43.8% and 38.70%, respectively). Higher density index of avian, amphibian, reptiles and mammals were recorded in BSS (3.2, 3.3, 4.4 and 2.1, respectively) compared to BIS (0.2, 0.7, 0.5 and 0.6). Moreover, there were more catch values in the dry than in the wet seasons (t=0.935). In addition, a higher diversity index (t=2.18) was recorded in BSS than in BIS. Generally, more species diversity was observed in the BSS block than the BIS and this is attributed to the habitat structure which is more structurally complex and less fragmented.

17

Vegetative Propagation: A Unique Technique of Improving Plants Growth

100%

Awotedu B. F., Omolola T. O., Akala A. O., Awotedu O. L., Olaoti-Laaro S. O.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2021

|

vol. 35

83-101

EN

Vegetative propagation is any form of asexual reproduction occurring in plants in which a new plant grows from a fragment of the parent plant. Different methods of propagation can be used for plants because they respond differently. Based on plant growing uniformly, increasing the production of these plants, their resistance to pest and diseases, early bearing of fruits and having some certain traits in the new generated plants, various techniques of propagation have been designed for it. Plants can be propagated through sexual and asexual methods. Sexual one involves the use of seeds while asexual involves the vegetative parts of plant in raising new ones. The parts of the stem cutting mostly used are leaves, root, stems and terminal bud, due their simplicity. There are various trees on which stem cuttings can be done based on their maturity. It can be done on either herbaceous, hardwood, softwood or semi-hardwood due to their convenience and the stem cuttings of some more difficult to root than others. Asexual propagation involves stem cuttings, air layering, grafting, budding and micro propagation. Adoption of these forms of vegetative propagation has increased over the years and different species have been propagated through each of these methods with various degree of success. This paper aims at reviewing various techniques in propagating plant species.

18

Statistical relationship between leaf litter and tree growth characteristics of Tectona grandis species

100%

Eguakun F. S., Job M.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2018

|

vol. 18

|

issue 2

252-261

EN

Forest productivity relies on the quantity and quality of litter as this influences nutrient cycling in the ecosystem. Many studies have been carried out on litter fall, but few attempts has been made to relate litter fall nutrient content with tree growth variables The aim of this work was to investigate basic relationships between the leaf litter nutrient content of Tectona grandis and tree growth characteristics. The study was done at the arboretum of the Department of Forestry and Wildlife Management, University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Data were collected from four (4) randomly selected 20m × 20m (0.04ha) plots. Within each plots, four (4) litter traps at 8m apart was set at random to collect litter on a weekly basis, while tree growth variables were measured on trees around the trap. The collected litter was put into zip-lock bags and taken to the laboratory for nutrient content analysis. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg) content and pH were included in this. The result shows that the average weekly leaf litter collected from the trap was 11.8g. In terms of average nutrient content, Nitrogen had the highest average at 1.8, while Sodium (Na) had the lowest value at 0.14. Among the tree growth variables, only height had a positive correlation with litter collected. The results also show that Nitrogen micronutrient content was related to the amount of litter collected (0.536). In addition, all the exchangeable base analysed in the study were also related to the amount of litter collected. Conclusively, the amount of litter produced is a major indicator of primary productivity because as litter quantity increases, available nutrient content for plant growth also increases, hence, having influence on tree height.

19

Maximizing the Role of African Forest for Climate Change Mitigation and Socioeconomic Development

100%

Oyewole S. O., Ishola B. F., Aina-Oduntan O. A.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2019

|

vol. 27

11-21

EN

Forestry has a significant role to play in green economy transformation process of African Continent. It is important to provide strong rationale that will link the forest to economic development. This paper therefore provides useful information on the potential of forest resources for socio-economic improvement with emphasize on the status of African forest. The paper reviewed the role of forest in climate change mitigation and achievement of Sustainable Development Goals as well as the role of forest in attaining industrialization. It was revealed that Central Africa has highest forest area with North Africa having lowest forest area. However, in terms of planted forest North Africa has highest area while Central Africa has lowest area. More so through sustainable management of forest some SDGs can be achieved. Forest is found to be useful approach in climate change mitigation through carbon sequestration. The strategies that can be adopted to improve the status of African forest include sustainable management of forest resources, afforestation and improved agroforestry practices. The paper recommends policy strategy that will re-position forestry subsector in order to achieve its primary roles in the climate change mitigation, economy and promote agroforestry to increase forest cover.

20

Tree basal area models and density for selected plantation species in swamp forest zone of Rivers State, Nigeria

100%

Oyebade B. A., Eguakun F. S., Duru B. N.

World News of Natural Sciences

|

2020

|

vol. 30

|

issue 2

271-286

EN

Individual-tree models of basal area growth and density were developed for seven plantation species in swamp forest zone of Rivers State, Nigeria. Tree growth data were collected from pure permanent sample plots of seven plantation species within the study area with measurements of diameter at breast height (cm), diameter at the base (cm), total height of tree (m), and also the number of tree per plot was taken and obtained from plantation records. The Quantitative data collected from these selected plantation species were subjected to descriptive analysis, correlation and regression analyses. Linearized models for description of relationship between BA and other growth attributes were developed. The results of the major growth variables by species in the study area showed that Treculia africana has the highest dbh mean value 30.804 ±2.031 (cm) with density 0.0022 and basal area per hectare 1.79×10–4 (m2). Similarly, the results also showed that Nauclea dedirrichii has the lowest dbh mean value 08.484 ±0.339 (cm) with basal area 3.92×10–5 (m2) and density 0.0063 per hectare. The results of correlation analyses showed general associations between basal area and the growth attributes by species with coefficients of correlation ranging from –0.023 to 0.999. The results similarly revealed distinct variations by species in density, basal area and tree number in the study area. The results of relationship between basal area and other growth variables showed significant model fit (best fit) with diameter attributes with model order: LNBA = b0 + b1lnDb + b2Dbh2 in Enthandrophragma angolense (R2 - 0.964, RSME – 0.837). The results of the study revealed that there were significant variations in the growth attributes by species in the study area; with significant associations between the basal area and major growth variables evaluated in the study, while the selected best adjudged fit model in the study area could be reasonably used for predicting basal area which is critical in cubical volume estimation and sustainable management of the study area.

Refine search results

Prognostic Crown Diameter equations for a Mixed Species Plantation in Southern Nigeria

Fuelwood Consumption and Tree Species Extinction, a Case Study of Kartala Forest in Western Mbadjini of Region of Comoros

Species Diversity Associated with Salt Lick Utilization in Borgu sector of Kainji Lake National Park, Nigeria

Above and Below-Ground Decomposition of Leaf Litter in Leucaena leucocaephala Plantation of Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Nigeria

Impact of soil amendments on the early growth of Streculia setigera Del. in the nursery

Analysis of Farmers’ Perception and Adoption of Agroforestry Technology as Climate Change Mitigation Strategy in Edo State, Nigeria

Influence of Deforestation in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, Nigeria

Obeche (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum.): poor products development wood but good environmental tree in Nigeria

Problems and Prospects of Tree Planting in Kano Metropolis, Kano State, Nigeria

Individual tree basal area equation for a young Tectona Grandis (Teak) plantation in Choba, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Cross River State, Nigeria: A Global Visual Cultural and Forest Biodiversity Tourism Destination

The Effects of Forests on Economic Growth in Nigeria (1990 – 2015)

Contribution of Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) to Livelihood of People in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria

Spatial Distribution of Nigerian Universities Offering Forestry Education using Geographic Information System

Predicting Basal Area Using Java Program in Akinyele Local Government Area, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Ecological influence of habitat structure on the diversity of fauna in Rivers State, Nigeria

Vegetative Propagation: A Unique Technique of Improving Plants Growth

Statistical relationship between leaf litter and tree growth characteristics of Tectona grandis species

Maximizing the Role of African Forest for Climate Change Mitigation and Socioeconomic Development

Tree basal area models and density for selected plantation species in swamp forest zone of Rivers State, Nigeria