Growth and Volume Estimates of Teak (Tectona grandis Linn F.) in Kanya Forest Plantation, Kebbi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was conducted in order to estimate growth and volume production of Teak (Tectona grandis) in Kanya Forest Plantation, Nigeria. The plantation was divided in to six strata-based age classes (A=38, B=37, C=36, D=35, E=34, F=28, years). Five plots were randomly selected from each stratum. Trees within each plot were enumerated and measured. Variables measured include total height, diameter at the base, middle, top, and diameter at the breast height were taken from 30 temporary sampled plots of 25x25 m approximately from the center, 180 dominant trees were selected from 712 trees. Descriptive statistic was used to summarize the results while inferential statistic (correlation) was used to establish relationship growth and yield variables. Basal area and volume of sampled trees were computed using Excel as well as scatter plots, correlation analysis was achieved using SPSS statistical package version 20. The results of growth and yield values obtained from the dominant trees are (B=249.312 m3/ha, D=196.128 m3/ha, F=134.976 m3/ha, C=119.328 m3/ha, E=100.320 m3/ ha and A=86.976 m3/ha). The results showed that B was (37 years) the best and A (38 years) was the poorest. The results of correlation showed positive relationships with most of the tree growth and yield characteristics but negative relationships exist between age and some parameters that is to say as the age increases those parameters are decreasing.