Abstract:
The study area is in Taraba State, Nigeria. Timber tree species available in the reserve were
assessed. Simple random sampling technique was adopted in selecting sample plots for data
collection Forty (40) hectare plots were demarcated out in the forest. Each hectare plot was redemarcated into four (4) equal sizes of 50m x 50m (2,500m2) out of which one was randomly
selected for the assessment. Timber tree species from ? 10cm were selected assessment, their
diameter at breast height (dbh at 1.3m) and total height were collected. The result indicates that
23 timber tree species grouped into 11 taxonomic families were identified with a total frequency
of 361.Khaya grandifoliola in the family of meliaceae was prevalent with a total of 42 (12.0%)
representation out of the total timber species assessed, followed by Cola gigantea in the family of
Sterculiaceae 39 (11.0%). Timber tree species of Bosquia angolensis, Sacocephalus probeguini,
Quarea thompsonii, Pterocarpus erinaceus,and Berlina confusa were only represented by one
each out of the total encountered in the reserve. The total basal area/ha was 12.7652304m2
(0.31913076m2/ha) and a total volume of 209.70436m3 (5.242609m3/ha) recorded in the study
area. The low basal area and volume recorded in the reserve was as a result of over exploitation
that was carried out in the reserve. However, there is no logging activities going on in the
reserve, it should be left for many years to recuperate and be assisted by planting of exotic and
indigenous fast growing species. |
