Evaluating the insect species diversity and abundance in Police Academy Wudil, Kano, Nigeria

Abstract

Insects are central to ecological stability, contributing significantly to biodiversity and ecosystem functioning. Assessing their diversity and abundance is essential for effective conservation and environmental monitoring. This study evaluated insect species diversity and abundance within the Police Academy (POLAC), Wudil, Kano State, Nigeria. Sampling was conducted across four selected sites using line transects. Flying insects were captured with sweep nets, while crawling forms were collected using pitfall traps. Specimens were identified and classified into taxonomic groups, and measures of diversity, species richness, and evenness were calculated. A total of 265 insects were recorded, representing 12 orders, 20 families, and 22 species. Hymenoptera emerged as the most dominant order (18.2%), followed by Lepidoptera and Diptera, each contributing 13.6% of the total collection. Diversity indices indicated variability in species richness and evenness across habitats, although statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in species composition among the sites. This uniformity may reflect similarities in environmental factors such as temperature, rainfall, and soil conditions across the study locations. The findings provide a baseline understanding of insect diversity and abundance in the Nigeria Police Academy and emphasize the importance of continuous biodiversity monitoring to inform conservation strategies. Further studies are recommended to investigate seasonal variations and the role of environmental influences on insect population dynamics.