Author(s): Dongs YD, Saka MG and Adedotun A

Abstract: This study evaluated Trees species diversity, Biomass, and Carbon sequestration capacity of tree species in Jos wildlife Park, Plateau State. A systematic sampling technique was used for this study, in which four (4) transects of 0.5 km in length were laid at intervals of 150m apart. In each of the transect, sixteen (16) rectangular plots of 100 X 50 m in size were laid alternatively along each transect at an interval of 20 m where all trees were identified, counted and the height and diameter at breast height (DBH) of trees were recorded. Non-destructive method was used for data estimation of tree diversity, biomass and carbon sequestration using their equations. The result revealed 1,035 trees belonging to 17 families and 38 different species in the study area. The most dominant tree species was Pinus caribaea 482 (46.57%) individuals, followed by Jacaranda mimosifolia 76 (7.34%) individuals while, Anogeissus leiocarpus, Etanda africana, Gmelina arborea, Milicia excelsa, and Tectona grandis were encountered only once (0.1%) in the sampled areas. Shannon-Weigner Diversity Index showed that the study area has a diversity index of 2.3445. The average biomass stock of the study area was estimated as 32.7 tons. The species with the highest mean biomass stock was Eucalyptus toreliana with a value of 10.09 tons, while Croton macrostachyus had the lowest mean biomass value of 0.115 ton. Pinus caribaea accounted for the highest carbon sequestration of 210.7 tons/ha, while Gmelina arborea had the lowest carbon sequestration of 0.05 tons/ha. The result further revealed that tree species with high biomass and carbon sequestration capacities should be given higher priority in reforestation and afforestation projects. Rare trees species that existed in the study area should be properly protected to maintain tree diversity and prevent their complete extinction.

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