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- Assessment of domestic fuelwood utilization in Girei Local Government Area
of Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: A. Adedotun
Pages: 1 - 8
Abstract: The study investigated domestic fuelwood utilization in Girei Local Government Area (LGA) of Adamawa State, Nigeria. This was as a result of high rate of deforestation ongoing in the study area. Multi-stage sampling technique was used in interviewing 150 respondents for this study. Data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results on socio-demographic characteristics revealed that majority (50.7%) of fuelwood utilizers were females within the age range of 36 - 44 years having a mean age of 40 years. The result further revealed that 36% of the respondents are married and having a mean household size of 5 individuals. Most of the respondents were educated and their average monthly income ranged from ₦10,001-₦20,000 and a mean monthly income of ₦20,526. Ziziphus mauritiana was mostly exploited and utilized by the respondents of the study area and has a mean value of 4.0. The results on regression analysis for fuelwood utilization shows that double log was the best determinant with a coefficient of 0.925 and a root mean square of 0.5434. Further findings from this study showed that due to the rate of exploitation of trees in the study area, environmental challenges such as increase in temperature, flooding and erosion has become frequent, intense and having a devastating effects on the livelihood of the people hence the need for affordable alternative sources of energy provided to ease the pressure on logging activities within the area.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Seasonal variation of organochlorine pesticides residue in water and
silver catfish (Bagrus Bajad fabricius, 1775) from Ajiwa Reservoir,
Katsina State
Authors: I. Abubakar , A. Dasuki , T.A. Babatunde , I. Ghali-Mohammed , N. Abdurrasheed , A.B. Dauda
Pages: 9 - 16
Abstract: Water is one of the major components of environmental resources that are under threat either from over exploitation or pollution exacerbated by human activities. Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are major contaminants of inland water bodies and could lead to pollution if they accumulate over time. This study was carried out to investigate seasonal variation in OCPs residue in water and its bioaccumulation in gills and muscles of the silver catfish (Bagrus bajad Fabricius, 1775) from Ajiwa reservoir, Katsina State, Nigeria, between February and September 2022. The fish and water samples were obtained from three major fishing landing sites near the reservoir; Kadaji, Gamji and KunduWaje. The organochlorine pesticide residue in the fish and water samples were extracted, clean up with Silica gel and analyzed with a gas chromatograph with Ni electron capture detector. The data obtained from the gas chromatography (GC) analysis were presented using descriptive statistics while T-test was used to compare each of the OCPs between the two seasons. The seasonal difference showed significantly higher amount of gamma-chlordane and endosulfan in gills; aldrin in muscles; methoxychlor and endosulfan in water in wet season compared to dry season. The results indicated that there is presence of some organochlorine pesticides in the water from the reservoir, gills and muscle of B. bajad at various concentrations. However, the concentrations are all below the recommended safety limits, nonetheless, continuous monitoring and discouragement of the use of OCPs in and around the reservoir is recommended to prevent it from getting to hazardous level.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Physical, durability and chemical characterization of Zgmelina arborea
(roxb.) wood treated with lactic acid
Authors: T.O. Akinwamide , J.M. Owoyemi , E.A. Iyiola
Pages: 17 - 29
Abstract: Chemical modification was employed to treat Gmelina arborea wood using lactic acid for property enhancement. The treated wood samples were obtained from two different ages of 15 and 10 years and sawn into (20 x 20 x 60) mm and (20 x 20 x 20) mm for physical, durability and chemical characterization respectively. The impregnated samples were cured for a complete modification process in the oven at a temperature of 140oC at varying durations (3, 6, and 9 hours). The chemical characterization was done using Fourier-infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results revealed that wood aged 10 and 15 years recorded density values of 421.83 kg/m3 and 469.24 kg/m3 and had an average value of moisture content, volumetric shrinkage, volumetric swelling, and weight loss due to leaching of 57.32% and 48.39%, 9.32% and 12.52%, 8.50% and 9.97%, and 0.21% and 0.89% respectively. The durability properties of the treated wood showed a reduction in the leaching rate after continuous soaking in water coupled with an increase in the anti-swelling efficiency. The FTIR results revealed that treated wood bands were within 2938 and 2842 cm−1 assigned to CH stretching in aromatic methoxyl groups, and methyl and methylene groups of side chains. The modified wood can be used where considerable dimensional stability is required for structural use.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Growth pattern and proximate composition of five cartilaginous fish
species from Lagos Lagoon and its coast
Authors: O.B. Samuel, O.O. Soyinka, A.A. Alli
Pages: 30–3 - 30–3
Abstract: Length - weight relationship, as well as the nutritive values of some selected species of cartilaginous fishes were examined from the Lagos lagoon and its environs which lies within latitude 6° 26'–6° 37' N and longitude 3° 23'-4° 20' E. The following five cartilaginous fishes; Raja miraletus, Dasyatis margarita, Squalus megalops, Sphyrna couardi and Rhinobatos albomaculatus were used for the study and a total of fifty-four fish samples were collected for four months between May and August. Length and weight measurements were taken, and the proximate composition of the fish was analyzed using standard AOAC methods. Results for most of the fishes revealed negative allometric growth (b< 3). The sex ratio (Male: Female) were 1:1.16; 1:1.28; 1:1.15; 1:1.30; and 1:10 for Raja Miraletus; Dasyatis Margarita; Squalus Megalops; Sphyrna Couardi; and Rhinobatos Albomaculatus respectively. The proximate analysis revealed that Raja miraletus, Squalus megalops, Rhinobatos albomaculatus, Sphyrna couardi, Raja miraletus and Sphyrna couardi have the highest values of crude protein, carbohydrates, moisture content, ether extract, crude fibre and ash content at 25.85%, 4.88%, 66.17%, 3.08%, 4.76% and 2.35% respectively. The fishes belong to the high protein–low–fat category and can be recommended in human diets to prevent protein deficiencies.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- A survey of the floristic composition and density in Kwesati Forest
Reserve USSA Local Government Area Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: A.A. Maiguru
Pages: 40 - 48
Abstract: The study was conducted in Kwesati Forest reserve in Ussa Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria. The floristic composition and density were assessed to determine the current status of the forest. Nineteen hectares of sample plot of lands were laid out in the forest. Each of the hectare plot was divided into four equal sizes of 50m x 50m (2,500m2 ), one was randomly selected for the sampling. A total of 80 different tree species belonging to 23 families were encountered in the study area. Tree species in the family of Fabacaceae had the highest (9) representation in the forest. The predominant species are Cola mellinii, Phyllanthus discoides, Funtumia elastica, Tetrapleura tetraptera, Erythropheleum suavolens, and Macaranga burfolia. Density of trees per hectare were ranged from 56 to 136. A total of 4,172 were recorded with an average of 104 per hectare. The total basal area was 19.6774m2 with an average of 1. 0356m2 per hectare. The number of trees per hectare in the study area is very low which signified that there is high human interference. Massive enrichment planting with valuable species is recommended to increase stocking in the forest
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Physical and mechanical properties of wood plastic composite particle
boards produced from the combination of Gmelina arborea and Khaya
senegalensis sawdust and polyethylene terephthalate
Authors: D.O. Ekhuemelo , A.A. Onah , E.T. Tembe
Pages: 49 - 61
Abstract: The study investigated the properties of wood-plastic composite (WPC) boards produced from a combination of G. arborea and K. senegalensis sawdust with Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). G. aborea and K. Senegalensis sawdust and PET were collected and prepared. The experiment design was 2 x 2 x 10 (2 types of plastic, 2 types of sawdust and 10 types of composite mixture) factorial in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). A composite board was produced using a rectangular mould size of 2x17x16 cm. Sample mixtures were in the ratio of 100%, 50:50, 70:30, 60:40, 30:70 mixed thoroughly with a thermo setting adhesive and poured in a flat mould of 2 cm and pressed using pressing machine for 5 minutes to allow proper curing of the adhesive. Data was collected on density, shattered index, shattered resistance, compressive strength parallel to grain modulus of elasticity, and modulus of rapture and analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Multiple Range Test as follow up test. The results showed that the density of boards ranged from 0.34 to 0.55 g/cm3 , with the highest density observed in the treatment containing PET and G. arborea (30:70). Shattered index ranged from 5.00% to 6.99%, with the lowest index observed in the treatment containing G. arborea and K. senegalensis (60:40) and the highest index in the treatment containing 100% PET. The shattered resistance ranged from 93.01% to 95.00%, with the highest resistance observed in the treatment containing G. arborea and K. senegalensis (60:40). Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) ranged from 1.88 N/mm2 to 8.16 N/mm2 , with the highest value in the treatment containing 100% G. arborea. Similarly, the Modulus of Rupture (MOR) ranged from 2.68 N/mm2 to 10.43 N/mm2 , with the highest value in the treatment containing 100% G. arborea. Compressive strength ranged from 135.63 N/mm2 to 153.19 N/mm2 , highest value in the treatment containing PET and G. arborea (70:30). There were no significantly different among WPC boards treatments. It was concluded that the combination of G. arborea and K. senegalensis sawdust with PET produced composites with higher MOE, MOR, and compressive strength compared to the treatment containing only PET.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Does forest cover type affect the regeneration potential of tree species'
a case study of Triplochiton scleroxylon in Akure Forest Reserve
Authors: A Lawal, O. Adeyemi, B. Jimoh
Pages: 62 - 67
Abstract: This study assessed the successional status of Triplochiton scleroxylon using three selected land-cover types in Akure Forest Reserve. The study was carried out in Queen’s plot, enrichment forest, and disturbed forest areas in Akure Forest Reserve, Ondo State. A systematic line transect was used for data collection. Two line transects at 150m apart were laid for each forest cover type. On each transect, four 50 m by 50 m plots were laid in an alternate direction. Eight plots were laid in each forest cover type. All the overstory trees, wildlings, and seedlings in each plot were counted and recorded. The findings showed that Queen’s plot had good regeneration potential (seedlings > wildlings > overstory), enrichment forest had fair regeneration potential (seedlings > wildlings < overstory), while regeneration potential was poor in disturbed forest areas (seedling = 0, wildlings < overstory). Queen's plot presents a promising environment for regeneration, with numerous seedlings suggesting a thriving population. Satisfactory regeneration potential exists in the enrichment forest, whereas the disturbed forest area presents a situation of poor regeneration, highlighting the need for conservation measures.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Biodiversity conservation in Nigeria: Prospects and challenges
Authors: S.O. Olaoti-Laaro , D.S. Muritala, C.A. Odebunmi, A.V. Alagbe, A.M. Bamgboye , I. Agboje, A.S. Fadoyin , O.A. Bamigboye, V. Obakpolor , N.O. Haastrup
Pages: 68 - 75
Abstract: Timber harvesting with insufficient planning, improper operational techniques and lack of control of operations results in severe damage to conserving the forest, forest trees and everything present in it. Human play a very prominent role in a day to day environmental dynamics. Consequently, the effect of insufficient biodiversity conservation was identified. An illegal mining activity in the forest, illegal tree felling and indiscriminate hunting activities in the forest was discussed and their negative effect on the environment. The destruction of means of livelihood is worrisome as a result of uncoordinated activities of illegal artisan miners in the area. Strategies for effective environmental conservation need to be enforced like regulation of illegal mining and petroleum exploitation and also mass enlightenment of the public on environmental protection programs in virtually all the local government areas in the country. This paper's main goals are to draw attention to a few of these harmful behaviors that threaten biodiversity and to raise public awareness of the significance of biodiversity conservation measures in Nigeria.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Nutrient composition of fresh water clams (Galatea paradoxa, born 1778)
from River Benue, Benue State-Nigeria
Authors: M.I. Iwar, I.A. Dauda, T.S. Mbayion
Pages: 76 - 84
Abstract: An investigation of the nutritional benefits of freshwater clams was undertaken from River Benue, Nigeria. The method of data collection was the purposive sampling of four (4) locations along the river. The results indicated that freshwater Clams had a crude protein content of 30.63%. Ash content ,22.74%, fat,4.72% and moisture 5.27%. Mineral contents ranged from 2.3 ± 0.02 to 166.2 ± 0.14 (Mg/kg-1 ); with calcium recorded in higher content of 166.2 ± 0.14(Mg/kg-1 ) while Cu content was recorded the lowest (2.3 ± 0.02 Mg/kg-1 ) mineral contents from G. paradoxa. The result of this finding also showed other mineral contents in fresh water clam in the study area, these include: Sodium 150.0 ± 0.21 Mg/kg-1 , followed by Magnesium which content about 139.0 ± 0.07 Mg/kg-1 , Iron content 15.0 ± 0.04 Mg/ kg-1 and Potassium content 14.2 ± 0.03 Mg/kg-1 while Zinc content 9.9 ± 0.03 Mg/kg-1 . The vitamins content ranged from 0.4 ± 0.01(mg/ g) to 121.5 ± 2.12 (mg/g). Fresh water clam (Galatea paradoxa) from the study area hadt vitamin D with the highest content value of 121.5 ± 2.12 (mg/g), this was followed by vitamin C whose content was 18 ± 0.04 mg/g, vitamin K content 13.9 ± 0.02 (mg/g), vitamin A content 8.5 ± 0.74 mg/g, vitamin B6 content 5.1± 0.02 mg/g, vitamin E content 1.1± 0.02 mg/g while vitamin B12 content 0.4 ± 0.01mg/g.It is therefore suggested that sensitization be carried out to promote their consumption among the populace of Benue State for their nutritive values.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- A survey of bush meat hunting and trading in Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: R. Umaru, U. Buba, A. Adamu
Pages: 85 - 91
Abstract: This study examined Bush Meat Hunting and Trading in Taraba State using structured open and close questionnaires, which were administered to one hundred and twenty (120) respondents and survey of bush meat processing centres were deployed to collect data for this study. Collection of data spanned for three months (November 2022 to January 2023). The result on age group showed that most of the respondent were between the age group of 31-45 (n=54, 45%), while none was at the age of 60 and above. The results of marital status of the respondents showed that 68 respondents (58%) were married and 3 respondents (2 %) were widowed. The results of educational level of the respondents indicated that most were secondary leavers (n=56, 47%) and (n=12, 10 %) had no formal education. The family size of respondents shows that most of the respondents had a family size with more than 11 members (n= 60, 52%) and the least being the family size of 1-5 (n = 7, 3%). The occupations of respondents indicate that most were hunters (n=76, 63%), followed by farmers (n=32, 26 %) while other occupations such as traders and primary school teachers (n = 12, 10%) were among those mentioned. The results on bushmeat consumption shows that almost all the people in the study areas consume bushmeat (Gashaka 100%, Bali 100% and Kurmi 100%). The results on general meat sources in relation to bushmeat showed that the most preferred meat type is bush meat (67%). The results on bushmeat preference among the varieties of bushmeat indicated that grasscutter is the most preferred bush meat on the average (51%).The study shows that hunters earned the sum of #36,000 - #40,000 per month on the average. Stiffer laws and policies should be created and implemented to put off illegal hunters. Government should grant loans to poultry and fish farmers to increase their farms since they serve as alternative sources of meat and income. Poverty alleviation programmes should extend to rural areas for wealth creation. The findings of this study showed that wild animals hunting for bushmeat is still common in Taraba State. The formulation of policies and laws with stiffer penalties on wild animal hunting for bushmeat will go a long way to restore high populations in protected areas of the state for future generations.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Potentials of thermo-oil treatment process for improved properties of
lesser utilized wood species in Nigeria
Authors: I.O. Oyeleye, J.M. Owoyemi, O.O. Oluwasina , S.O. Olaniran
Pages: 92 - 102
Abstract: The growing demand for timber has resulted in increased exploitation of forest plantations and the use of fast-growing species. In response, technology has been developed to improve the mechanical qualities and durability of wood. This technology has reduced the need for toxic chemicals, instead promoting non-toxic modifications to prevent the decay and increase the mechanical properties of timber. Thermal modification is one such alternative method, which improves wood's dimensional stability and decay resistance while only slightly decreasing its strength qualities. As an eco-friendly approach, thermo-oil modification of wood shows promise as an alternative to traditional chemical treatments. Numerous scientific articles have explored the thermo-oil modification of wood, summarizing its properties and potential applications. This reviewed article also examines the effects of thermo-oil modification on various wood properties, including dimensional stability, chemical properties, and resistance to termites and fungi.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Avifauna species richness and abundance in relation to habitat features in
selected areas of Guinea Savanna Zone, Nigeria
Authors: A.B. Ibrahim, I.S. Ndams, I.M.K. Gadzama, D. Tanko , D.A. Mathew, Y. Wada, S.I. Chercaoui
Pages: 103 - 110
Abstract: This study was aimed to assess the avifaunal species richness and abundance in relation to habitat features in Guinea Savanna Zone of Nigeria. Point count method was employed to record bird species in four stratified habitats – forest, woodland, grassland and riverside, while Quadrats were used to record plant species and habitat features. Grassland habitat had the highest plant species abundance while forest had the highest species richness. Among all the habitat features, only tree density showed a positive association with the bird species abundance, richness and diversity because trees serve as the main niches for most bird species. However, water cover was the only feature that showed significant positive correlation with bird abundance because most colonial species converge at such habitat for the abundant food, water, nesting materials and breeding. In conclusion, the assessment of the vegetation composition and structure of the Guinea Savanna Zone of Nigeria has revealed the impacts of habitat disturbance on the avifaunal diversity, and indices of climate change have been recorded.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Assessment of spatial pattern of net solar radiation and surface
temperature for sustainable agriculture in Ibarapa East Local Government
Area, Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: C.F. Agbor , O.R Yusuf I.O. Ogunwale , P.O. Alabi
Pages: 111 - 116
Abstract: The study focused on the evaluation of the spatial distribution of net solar radiation and surface temperature in Ibarapa East local government area, Oyo State, Nigeria, using geospatial techniques. Variables were obtained from Landsat images of 2023 and Aster elevation data. To examine the impact in agriculture ecosystem, the study examined the response of temperature to spatial pattern of the net solar energy. Both variables were calculated using a machine learning algorithm called random forest. The results revealed northern part of the study area experienced more net solar energy, while the southern part experienced higher temperature. There was a strong study will help to ensuring sustainable food production in the area. Therefore, the local negative relationship of 84% between temperature and solar energy available on the earth’s surface. The LGA experienced average of 32.7o c and 221.2W m-2 net radiation in 2023. A striking finding of this study is the fact that net radiation decreased with increase in temperature. The findings of this authority and other relevant stakeholders should not jettison information about climate variables, rather prioritize investments in research and capacity-building initiatives in the field of climate science.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Effects of fuel wood utilization on Pandam Wildlife Park, Plateau State,
Nigeria
Authors: I.J. Uloko, I.S. Hangeior, G.A. Lameed
Pages: 117 - 122
Abstract: This study investigates the impact of fuel wood utilization on the Pandam Wildlife Park, employing a multi-stage sampling technique to administer 3,305 questionnaires across four surrounding communities. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were utilized for data analysis. Findings indicate a predominance of male fuel wood collectors, with 80% of respondents relying on firewood as their primary energy source. Approximately 83,000 metric tons of firewood are harvested and sold weekly in the study area, posing a substantial threat to the park's ecosystem integrity. Poverty and rapid population growth are identified as major drivers of unsustainable fuel wood harvesting. Addressing this issue necessitates comprehensive rural development policies and the provision of alternative energy sources. The study highlights the importance of mitigating fuel wood dependency to conserve biodiversity and foster sustainable development in protected areas.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Comparative evaluation of phytochemical composition of leaf, root and stem
of copper leaf (Acalypha wikesiana) mull. Arg. plant in Kaduna Northern
Guinea Savanna Ecological Zone, Zaria – Kaduna, Nigeria
Authors: A.I. Sodimu, A.M. Bichi, M.I. Bello, L.O. Salau, S.A. Magayaki, I.I. Babale
Pages: 126 - 129
Abstract: Comparative Analysis of Chemical composition of leaf, Root, and Stem of Copper leaf (Acalypha wilkesiana) plants in Zaria eco-zone of Kaduna state was studied. The roots, leaves, and stem samples were randomly collected from Ahmadu Bello University and her environs. They were identified at the herbarium of Savannah Forestry Research station and Department of Botany Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Kaduna. The sampled were air dried in the laboratory at a room temperature. The dried sampled was chopped into pieces and ground separately to powder using blender. The powdered samples were labelled and store in small plastic air tight container which were then taken for analysis. The data obtained from the laboratory was analyzed using two ways analysis of variance (ANOVA) using GLM procedure of SAS. The results show the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannin, phytate and Oxalate in various concentrations as there were significant differences(P<0.05) between these phytochemicals and the plant parts. It is evident that the iconic Copper leaf (Acalypha wilkesiana) plant is an important medicinal resource used to treat and prevent a range of health challenges. The reasons been the presence of high level of active phytochemical compositions found in the plant’s parts. In Nigeria, however, the plant gained little attention because of its ornamental nature. However, it is recommended that due to increase interest in the medicinal values and utilization of the copper plant, there is a need to create awareness about its conservation and further research should be carried out for its other uses.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Significance of wood and non-wood forest products in Cross River State,
Nigeria
Authors: E.E. Offiong, E.O.B. Ita, P.B. Ita
Pages: 130 - 138
Abstract: This study was carried out to examine the significance of wood and non- wood forest products in Cross River State, Nigeria. Structured questionnaires were used to generate primary data which were analyzed using simple descriptive and inferential statistics tools. The results showed that majority of respondents were males (68.16%) with 80.27% of the respondents belonging to age brackets of 31 to 60 years. Only 31.39% obtained a maximum of school certificate and above. Majority (79.82%) of the respondents were married and 63.12% derived their livelihood directly from the forest either by farming or gathering or through hunting. Also 62.13% of the respondents had their annual income ranging between N10000 and N70000. There was significant socio - economic values of wood and non-wood forest products in the study area. Notably among the socio-economic values from the forest include source of raw materials (94%), source of energy (91.2%), source of food and nutrition (87.7%), income generation (82.5%), medicinal uses (80%) and employment generation (75%) which recorded high percentage of response. Forest and its resources are considered a warehouse for goods and services by the rural and urban dwellers in Cross River State. However, the status of the forest and its resources is no longer view as renewable by the rural poor because of numerous factors which include indiscriminate exploitation, plantation establishment and infrastructural development. In fact, many of the forest resources are imported from neighboring countries because of high rates of deforestation in the study area. In order to minimize the high dependency on the forest, every household should be encouraged to establish a small wood - lots or orchard in their home gardens.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Diversity, habitat utilization and relative abundance of rainy season bird
species in different land use types of Katsina Metropolis, Katsina State,
Nigeria
Authors: Z. Musa, A.H. Bichi , A.A. Ogunjinmi
Pages: 139 - 151
Abstract: The study assessed bird species diversity and relative abundance across land use types in Katsina metropolis. The point count method was adopted for bird count. Data were analyzed using the Shannon-Weiner diversity index. Simpson Index of Diversity, and descriptively. A total of 5803 individual birds belonging to 50 species in 30 families were recorded during the study period. Whitebilled buffalo weaver was the most abundant species with 696 individuals, followed by Laughing dove (686) and Chestnut-bellied starling (602) while the least species recorded was Yellow-crowned Gonolek and Tiny sunbird with one (1) individual each. The Shannon Weiner index ranged between 1.169- 2.761 with the highest being in industrial area (2.761), recreational area (2.687), and golf course (2.647) and the lowest being road (1.16), business district (1.211) and road (1.436). The species like the laughing dove, chestnut-bellied starling and African silver bill were widely distributed across the study area, other species were restricted. The result of the study found that bird abundance and diversity was influenced by the level of anthropogenic activities of the various land uses. Efforts should be put towards creating an urban environment with green spaces to sustain birds and making urban populace realize the importance of avian species.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Fitting diameter distribution for Gmelina arborea (Roxb.) stands in Omo
Forest Reserve, South Western Nigeria
Authors: E.T. Adedeji , V.A.J. Adekunle , D.O. Adeagbo
Pages: 152 - 159
Abstract: Effective forest plantation management and decision making can be achieved by applying probability distribution to predict the stand status in diameter class distribution. The purpose of this study is to develop a suitable diameter distribution model for different age series of Gmelina arborea plantation stands in Omo Forest Reserves Ijebu East, Ogun State, south-western Nigeria. The Gmelina plantations were established in 2005, 2008, 2010, 2012 and 2014 respectively. A total of 30 temporary sample plots of equal size (25m x 25m) were laid while complete enumeration was carried out in each sampled plot and tree growth variables such as diameter at breast height and total height of all trees were measured. Eight diameter distribution functions that rank best includes Gen.Pareto, Beta, Lognormal (3P), Weibull (3P), Gamma (3P), Exponential (2P), Chi squared and General Extreme Value were fitted and assessed with Kolmogorov Smirnov (K-S), Anderson Darling and Chi-Square. General Pareto Distribution with D value of 0.04382 was ranked the best distribution with the Kolmogorov Sminorv test. The positive skewness recorded is an indication that most of the diameter at breast height are concentrated in the lower diameter class and it is an indication of a healthy and vigour forest.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Population structure and seasonal home range of free ranging vervet
monkeys (Chlorocebus Pygerythrus) Within Federal University Of
Agriculture, Abeokuta (Funaab Zoo Park) Zoological Park, Ogun State,
Nigeria
Authors: O. J. Somoye , A.O. Egbetade , O.A. Jayeola , K.O. Ademolu , A.O. Bamidele, N.F. Emmanuel
Pages: 160 - 170
Abstract: In order to provide baseline information for the management of free-range primates in a touristic environment, an ecological study to determine the population structure and estimates of home range of Vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) in Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Zoological Park was conducted. Direct count method was used for animal census and morphological indices were enlisted to identify and classify the monkeys into age and sex categories. Identified troops were followed and coordinates of their movement were taken with the aid of GPS. Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the population encountered across months and season. Chi square was used to compare population encountered by season, sex. Coordinates collected were plotted into Aeronautical Reconnaissance Coverage Geographic Information System (ArcGis) software to estimate the area covered during the dry and wet season forming a backdrop to generate a bounding area of range covered. The results showed total number of Vervet monkeys encountered was higher in wet season (2,260) than in dry season (2,010) in twenty (20) encounters. Similarly, monthly trends of the population revealed that the females were more than males all through. The trends seem similar as the population of both sexes peaked together in the month of August (Male=100; Female=240). Also, their age structure indicated that Adults > Juvenile > Infants throughout the period of the study. There was no significance difference (p>0.05) in the sex, and age structure of the monkeys throughout the period of the study (Male p=0.91; Female P=0.96; Adult p=0.99; Juvenile p=0.94; Infant p=0.97) respectively. The home range of the study troop was numerically higher in dry season (6.4ha) than in wet season (6.3ha) but there was no significant difference in the area covered by the study troop seasonally (p>0.05). The study concluded that population structure of vervet monkeys in terms of sex was similar and there was similarity in their home range across the two seasons. It is therefore recommended that the areas frequently used by the vervet monkeys should be monitored more in order to ensure continued existence of this free-range monkeys within the park and document changes in pattern of movement and growth as this will modulate management policies within the park.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
- Comparative study of wood waste generations on sawmilling industries in
Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: C. Kanu, M.U. Chikwendu, R.U. Onyeizu, E.C. Egu
Pages: 171 - 180
Abstract: This study investigated various wood waste generation on sawmilling industries in Oyo State, Nigeria. Three sawmills (Ajah, Alomaja and Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) Ibadan) were selected for this study. Five different species were selected for wood waste generation (Gmelina arborea, Milicia excelsa, Lophira alata, Entandrophragma utile and Triplochiton scleroxelem). Twenty 20 logs diameter were taken from the five wood species and the volume of round log, volume of sawn log, volume of waste generated were determined and percentage of waste generated were calculated. Result revealed that Gmelina arborea was highest (26.99%) in abundant in the sawmills due to its utilization for various construction purpose and the lowest (21.432%) wood species was Melicia excelsa. However, these study reveals that wood waste generated from sawmilling operations in various sawmill are high and should be encouraged to enhanced in the utilization for energy production and other value-added product for wealth creation and environmental sustainability.
PubDate: 2024-08-01
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 2 (2024)
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Open Access journal
