Does forest cover type affect the regeneration potential of tree species? a case study of <i>Triplochiton scleroxylon</i> in Akure Forest Reserve

Abstract

This study assessed the successional status of Triplochiton scleroxylon using three selected land-cover types in Akure Forest Reserve. The  study was carried out in Queen’s plot, enrichment forest, and disturbed forest areas in Akure Forest Reserve, Ondo State. A systematic  line transect was used for data collection. Two line transects at 150m apart were laid for each forest cover type. On each transect, four 50  m by 50 m plots were laid in an alternate direction. Eight plots were laid in each forest cover type. All the overstory trees, wildlings, and  seedlings in each plot were counted and recorded. The findings showed that Queen’s plot had good regeneration potential (seedlings >  wildlings > overstory), enrichment forest had fair regeneration potential (seedlings > wildlings < overstory), while regeneration potential  was poor in disturbed forest areas (seedling = 0, wildlings < overstory). Queen's plot presents a promising environment for regeneration,  with numerous seedlings suggesting a thriving population. Satisfactory regeneration potential exists in the enrichment forest, whereas  the disturbed forest area presents a situation of poor regeneration, highlighting the need for conservation measures.