Assessment of the natural regeneration status of <i>Irvingia gabonensis</i> (Bush Mango) in Gashaka Gumti National Park, Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

The objectives of the study assessed the natural regeneration status of Irvingia gabonensis (Bush Mango) by the use of number of  regenerants such as seedlings, saplings,juveniles, and matured. The research was carried out in Gashaka Gumti National Park Taraba  State, Nigeria. A biophysical survey of trees, based on diameter classess was used. Opportunistic sampling design was employed to  establish plots of 30m x 30m square where data on various different class-sizes of Irvingia gabonensis were collected. Chain was used to  establish plots.The locations of Irvingia gabonensis were spotted and marked out using the Global Positioning System (GPS). Different class-sizes were determined by measuring the diameter at breast height (dbh) of the matured tree of Irvingia gabonensis species  encountered in each plot, while vernier calliper was used to measure the collar diameter of the seedlings. Results showed that there was  an increasing trend of Irvingia gabonensis seedlings with good regeneration status while, saplings and matured were fair in regeneration. Juveniles had poor regeneration. In other words, there was an apparent diminishing of the natural regeneration trend of  Irvingia gabonensis trees among juvenile classes in the Forest as a result of constant invasion and disturbances of bush pigs feedings on  the ripe fruits thereby creating a setback on regeneration trend. By considering the various stages of natural regeneration, researchers  and conservationists can assess the current and future population dynamics of Irvingia gabonensis. This assessment enables the  identification of factors that may hinder or enhance natural regeneration, such as habitat fragmentation, climate change, or animal activities. Ultimately, such assessments aid in the development of effective conservation strategies to ensure the long-term survival of  Irvingia gabonensis and its associated ecosystem.