Assessment of terrestrial ecosystem services of Okomu National Park, Southern Nigeria

Abstract

The destruction and unsustainable use of forest resources necessitated the establishments of protected areas (National Parks) in many countries including Nigeria. The study assessed the terrestrial ecosystem services of Okomu National Park between August, 2017 and January, 2019, with a view to assess its fauna and flora diversity. Three compartments (each approximately 1.5 km²) were selected for plant assessment, while eight compartments were used for animal assessment. The transect method was employed to evaluate species abundance by counting individuals within each transect. The survey recorded 16 terrestrial animal species, with Cercopithecus erythrogaster (White-throated monkey) being the most abundant (31.21%), while Naja sp., Xercus erythropus, Loxodonta africana cyclosis, Phataginus tricuspid and Synercus  caffer nanus occurred the least (0.58 % each). For flora, 23 species were observed, with Ceiba pontandra (13.07 %), Ceitis bondii (11.59 %), Anthonatha macrophylla (10.14 %) and Rothmannia wipidia (11.59 %) as the most abundant plant species. The study revealed the wetland's diverse fauna and flora compositions, highlighting its importance for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem services. The park's potential for ecotourism, research, and recreation is substantial. It is also very important to involve surrounding communities in park management and resource use to help mitigate conflicts, illegal logging, and poaching. To ensure sustainable management, it is recommended that, more researches be carried out including ecosystem valuation.