Floristics and Structure of the Fallow Vegetation in the Ile-Ife Area of Southwestern Nigeria
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Date
1997
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Abstract
A study was made of the vegetation of seven fallow plots in Ile-Ife Area of Southwestern Nigeria. The aim is to provide detailed information on the current state of the Secondary Low-land Forest Vegetation and on the various successional stages formed as a result of human activities. Results show that there are differences in species composition of the plots. Young plots (1-5 years old) had fewer woody species and individuals than the secondary forest plots. The secondary forest plot which is the oldest plot, had the highest mean basal area, mean crown area and greater number of trees in the height class ≥7m while the youngest plot had the lowest mean basal area, mean crown area and had no tree in the height class ≥7m. The woody basal and crown area of the plots depend entirely on the density and size of the woody species. The mean aerial cover of herbaceous plant was more than 100% in all the plots except the secondary forest plots where there was no herbaceous plant at all. The differences in species composition could be attributed to level of human activities on the plots. The knowledge of this species composition in the plots (Biological diversity) can be directed at and preserving the plants for both perceived and economic benefits and for their aesthetic value.
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Fallowing, Herbaceous plant, Woody species, Physiognomy, Elaeis guineensis, Floristic composition
Citation
Oke, S.O. and Isichei, A. O. (1997). Floristics and Structure of the Fallow Vegetation in the Ile-Ife Area of Southwestern Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Botany, 10.