Assesment of the Contribution of Homestead Farming in the Conservation of Plant Species at Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

The objective of this paper was to assess the contribution of homestead farming in the conservation of species diversity at Dunukofia Local Government Area (LGA) of Anambra State, Nigeria, using a semistructured questionnaires administered to 30 homestead farmers.  Data obtained reveals that, a total of  40 dominant plant species belonging to 27 families comprising of 26 tree species. 9 herbs and 5 shrubs were identified. Trees diversity were more abundant with 65%  tree species which includes; Irvingia gabonensis in which the seeds is used for ‘Ogbono soup’, and Moringa oleifera used for medicinal purposes. Also, the percentage of shrubs species assed was (12.5%) Manihot esculenta which serve as food crop. Amaranthus hybrids (herbs) used as vegetables represent about 22.5% of the species. The study revealed that proper documentation and inventory of the species diversities in the area is necessary to preserve and conserve indigenous species, culture and communal history of the area.