Co-occurrence Patterns of Parkia biglobosa with other tree Species for Agroforestry Plannings in North Eastern Nigeria Savanna Ecosystem
Rapid deforestation, land degradation, and biodiversity loss are major threats to the savanna ecosystems of North Eastern Nigeria, reducing the sustainability of indigenous tree species important for agroforestry and rural livelihoods. Parkia biglobosa is an economically and ecologically valuable savanna species, yet limited information exists on its ecological association with other indigenous trees necessary for effective agroforestry planning. This study therefore investigated the co-occurrence patterns of P. biglobosa with other tree species in selected protected areas of North Eastern Nigeria. The study was conducted in Wawa-Zange Forest Reserve, Yankari Game Reserve, and Gashaka-Gumti National Park located in Gombe, Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa States. Sixty sample plots of 20 m × 20 m square were systematically established for vegetation assessment. Tree species with diameter greater than 10 cm were identified and analyzed using Chi-square (χ²), Phi coefficient, and Cramér’s V statistics. The results showed that P. biglobosa had significant positive associations with forty-three tree species belonging to eighteen families. Strong associations were observed with Vitellaria paradoxa, Detarium macrocarpum, and Burkea africana. The study concluded that these positive ecological relationships support biodiversity conservation, soil fertility improvement, and sustainable agroforestry development in the savanna ecosystem of North Eastern Nigeria. The study recommends the conservation and integration of compatible indigenous tree species into agroforestry programs and sustainable land management strategies to enhance ecosystem productivity and environmental sustainability in North Eastern Nigeria.
