A FLORISTIC ENUMERATION OF OBITE CCOMMUNITY PROTECTED AREAS OF CONSERVATION PRIORITIES IN PARTS OF ETCHE, RIVERS STATE

This abstract presents a floristic enumeration of the Obite Community Protected Areas in Etche, Rivers State, focusing on conservation priorities. This study aims to elegantly identify and catalog plant species while assessing their level of endangerment through the IUCN Red List. In the ecological field assessment, five transects were used for sampling, and GPS technology was employed to obtain the coordinates of the various transects. The data analysis incorporated parameters such as frequency, density, abundance, relative frequency, relative abundance, relative density, important value index, and relative important value index. A total of 72 species were identified in the protected areas, with the family "Euphorbiaceae" contributing 11 species. Out of the total recorded species, 23 species exhibited a frequency of 100%. Bridella ndellensis had the highest abundance at 25% and a relative abundance of 8.02%, while Laccosperma opacum and Aframomum daniellii were recognized for having the highest density, each with a value of 11 and a relative density of 5.47 . According to the information gotten from the IUCN Red Data List, 50 species are classified as least concern, 5 species are near threatened, 6 species are vulnerable, and 11 species have not been evaluated. The floristic enumeration of the Obite Community Protected Areas underscores the rich biodiversity present in the region. It is recommended that ongoing monitoring of the identified species be conducted to track changes in their populations and conservation status. Furthermore, engaging local communities in conservation efforts can enhance awareness and support for the protection of these species. Lastly, the findings can guide local conservation initiatives and inform policy decisions aimed at safeguarding these vital ecosystems.