Assessment of the Present Status of Three Protected Areas on Ondo State, Nigeria: A Baseline Study
Abstract
Regular assessment of protected areas is essential for preserving their sanctity and ensuring continuous ecosystem services. Anthropogenic activities and pressure in rainforest protected areas (PAs) have caused habitat degradation and loss of flora and fauna. Most PAs in Ondo State, Nigeria have been recklessly exploited, hijacked, and converted to other land uses. This study assessed three PAs in Ondo State to provide baseline information for sustainable management and identify rare and threatened species requir-ing urgent conservation. The study evaluated tree species diversity, abundance, and growth variables across Akure-Ofosu Forest Reserve (Ondo Central), Osse River Park (Ondo North), and Oluwa Forest Reserve (Ondo South). Data were collected using systematic line transects with 50 × 50 m plots at 250 m intervals. All trees ≥10 cm DBH were identified, measured, and recorded. Mean basal area and volume per hectare were highest at Oluwa (288.90 m² ha⁻¹; 2897.12 m³ ha⁻¹), followed by Akure-Ofosu (222.59 m² ha⁻¹; 1710.90 m³ ha⁻¹) and Osse (101.91 m² ha⁻¹; 1004.55 m³ ha⁻¹). Biodiversity indices showed Pielou's evenness was highest in Akure-Ofosu (1.05), Shannon-Wiener (H’) peaked at 4.24 there, and Margalef's richness was greatest at Oluwa (13.66). Simpson's index exceeded 0.93 across all sites. Notably, Stercu-liaceae, Combretaceae, Ulmaceae, Apocynaceae, Caesalpiniodeae, and Verbenaceae were the most species-rich families, with Oluwa showing superior structural complexity and diversity. The study recommends strict enforcement of PA regulations, targeted protection of threatened species, and developing alternative livelihoods for local communities to ensure long-term forest ecosystem sustainability.
Keywords
References
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Details
Primary Language
English
Subjects
Forest Biodiversity
Journal Section
Research Article
Publication Date
April 30, 2026
Submission Date
June 27, 2025
Acceptance Date
March 31, 2026
Published in Issue
Year 2026 Volume: 28 Number: 1