Investigation of Floristic Composition, Species Abundance and Diversity of Plant Species in Akwuke and Iva Mining Sites, Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbonna PC, Nzegbule EC, Okorie PE
DOI Info: N/A
ABSTRACT
Complete enumeration of plants above 30 cm in height was carried out at Akwuke and Iva mining sites and a control plot in Enugu State, Nigeria. For plant diversity, a total of 144, 208 and 340 tree species, and 36, 32 and 84 shrubs species, and 8, 18 and 12 climbers’ species as well as 104, 144 and 72 herbs/graminoids were represented in Akwuke, Iva and control sites, respectively. Menhinick’s species abundance index for tree and shrub species were high at Iva and Akwuke respectively and also for herbs/graminoids at the control plot. Simpson’s species diversity index for shrub species was high at the Iva mining site as compared to that of the control plot and Akwuke mining site. However, the Simpson’s species diversity index for trees did not differ at the mining sites but was low at the control plot. The results show that the control plot had undergone degradation as indicated by the presence of Andropogon gayanus and Hyparrhenia involucrate. However, if left undisturbed, it has the potential of regeneration back to its original state because of its tree species composition. The increase in herbaceous species at the mining site is an indication of primary regenerative succession that seems to be progressive towards shrubby habit if protected.
Affiliations: Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, P.M.B. 7267 Umuahia, Abia State, Nigeria
Keywords: Floristic Composition, Species Abundance, Plant Diversity, Coal Mining, Enugu
Published date: 2019/12/30
