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Assessment of vegetation structure and human impacts in the protected area of A lédjo ( T ogo)
Author(s) -
Wala Kperkouma,
Woegan Agbélessessi Y.,
Borozi Wiyao,
Dourma Marra,
Atato Abalo,
Batawila Komlan,
Akpagana Koffi
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
african journal of ecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.499
H-Index - 54
eISSN - 1365-2028
pISSN - 0141-6707
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2028.2012.01334.x
Subject(s) - floristics , geography , biodiversity , vegetation (pathology) , woodland , protected area , shrub , forestry , riparian forest , agroforestry , riparian zone , ecology , biology , habitat , species richness , archaeology , medicine , pathology
Protected areas constitute strategy for biodiversity conservation. Unfortunately, these sanctuaries of biodiversity are submitted to a high human pressure in T ogo. This study carried out in the A lédjo protected area, aimed to make an analysis of various forms of human footprints and their impact on its plant resources. Methodological approach was based on forest inventory completed by inquiries. Ninety‐four wooded species belonging to 35 families were counted. Floristic data analysis showed that seven species: I soberlinia doka C raib & S tapf, D aniellia oliveri ( R olfe) H utch. & D alz., B erlinia grandiflora ( V ahl) H utch. & D alz., P terocarpus erinaceus P oir., Z anha golungensis H iern, K haya senegalensis ( D esv.) A . J uss., P entadesma butyracea S abine was prominent. Five vegetation types were identified: riparian forests, dry forests, open forests, savanna woodlands, tree/shrub savannas with variable structural characteristics. The diversity indices in these plant communities are well significant and indicate a good distribution of species in the area. Several human activities such as fuel wood, fruits and medicinal plants gathering, carbonization, pasture were found within the protected area. Local authorities and associations are involved in the management of the protected area, but the participation of local populations needs to be improved.