Evaluation of Range Condition and Trend of Ikwe Forest Reserve Igbor, Gwer-East Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria

Abstract

Public concern over biological resources assessment has grown over the decade due to a decline in resources through habitat fragmentation. The study was designed to evaluate the range condition and trend of Ikwe Forest Reserve in Gwer-East local government area of Benue State, Nigeria. Assessment of herbaceous cover and composition, woody plant/shrubs density and plant vigor were carried out in randomly selected sample plots. Litter cover was determined by step point transect method, while erosion and its extent were assessed by presence and degree of gullies. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results obtained showed that the herbaceous cover composed of perennials (39%) and annuals (61%). Mean litter cover and mean tree/shrub density were 37% and 252 trees and shrubs per hectare. The relative density of general herbaceous species shows that Ludwigia decurrens was the highest (8.22%) whilst Tephrosia bracteolate was the lowest (1.27%). Grass species shows that pennisetum pendicellatum had the highest relative density at 17.58% (320 species) while Mariscus alternifolis has the lowest at 1.21% (22 species). The range condition was evaluated to be in fair condition (total score of 41.5%) when compared to a key for rating condition, and on a downward trend because of the rapid succession of less desirable plants (annuals and weeds), stunted plants and presence of slight erosion. Range management and improvement practices such as prescribed burning, range seeding and reseeding, control rate of livestock grazing and other sustainable management practices should be put in place to restore the reserve.