Effect of Taungya on Regeneration of Endemic Forest Tree Species in Nigeria: Edo State Nigeria as a Case Study

background

This study aims to investigate the number of native species that can regenerate under natural conditions in a 3-year Taungya system in Edo State, Nigeria. Taungya is an agroforestry system that combines forestry practices with agriculture and agriculture-related activities.

Research Goals & Methods

The study sites were divided into 3 zones from actively cultivated agricultural lands  to abandoned and open lands. 3 plots were randomly established within each zone to assess the effects of Taungya on natural regeneration of native species.

Conclusions & Takeaways 

The results show that deforestation of the original forest negatively affects the regeneration of native species in zones A and B. The authors attribute these poor regeneration rates to continuous cultivation. In contrast, significant regeneration was observed in zone C suggesting the potential for good natural forest regeneration if given a sufficient fallow period. The results also show that the Taungya system of forest regeneration does not support the regeneration of native species. The author recommends the establishment of native tree species plantations in addition to the allocation of funds for forest restoration and tree nursery establishment.