Habitat Characteristics of Wildlife Species in Pandam Wildlife Game Reserve, Plateau State, Nigeria
Keywords:
Habitat, Soil parameters vegetation components, NigeriaAbstract
The paper assessed the vegetation composition and structure within the existing habitats in Pamdam Wildlife Game Reserve. Line transects (2 km each) were laid 1 km apart; Savannah Woodland (SW), Riparian Forest (RF) and Swamp Land (SL). A total of 48 (50 x 50 m2) sample plots established on 12 transect lines were delineated at 500 m intervals. Tree species of Dbh ≥10 cm was identified and enumerated (individuals /ha). Shrubs [individuals /m2] and herbs [individuals/m2] were enumerated in 5 x 5 m2 and 1 x 1 m2 quadrats, respectively. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA at α0.05. Simpson’s (D) and Shannon-Weiner (H’) indices were estimated for trees and understorey. Density of trees (188 individuals /ha), shrubs (162), and herbs (1012) were the highest in SW and the least in RF (respectively 80, 86, and 567) were recorded. Tree species with highest Important Value Index (IVIs) were Parinari curatellifolia (12.9%), Vitex doniana (14.0%) and Mitragyna inermis (27.1%) in SW, RF and SL, respectively. The D and H’ were the highest for trees and shrubs in SW while they were the least in RF. The study revealed that especially conservation attention for the particular habitat so as to maintain persistent wildlife population in the reserve.
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