INCIDENCE AND SEVERITY OF MISTLETOE ON TREES SPECIES IN AMURUM FOREST RESERVE

ABSTRACT This study investigated the incidence and severity of mistletoe infestation on tree species across three habitat types (Riparian forest, Savanna woodland, and Rocky outcrop) in Amurum Forest Reserve, Jos East, Plateau State, Nigeria. The study identified mistletoe and host species, assess infestation incidence and severity, and compare distribution across the habitat types. Six 50m x 50m plots were sampled across the habitat types. All trees (girth ≥ 10 cm) within each established plots were assessed for incidence of mistletoes. Mistletoe-infested branches were counted and recorded. Ecological diversity indices (Shannon-Wiener, Pielou’s evenness, Margalef’s richness) were used to determine abundance. Data obtained for each habitat type were tested for signigicant difference and mean separated by Duncan Multiple Range Test. Four (4) species of mistletoe were identified in the study area with Tapinanthus sessilifolius being the most abundant (49) in the 3 habitat types recording 26 in the riparian forest, 16 in the savanna woodland and 7 in the rocky outcrop. Other species of mistletoes in the study area include Tapinanthus cordifolius, Tapinanthus belvisii and Tapinanthus bangwensis. Plant family, Fabaceae had the highest infestation (46.88%) while Parkia biglobosa and Dichrostachys cinerea were identified most susceptible host species. The highest species diversity and richness (H' = 2.24, D = 16) were recorded in the riparian forest while rocky outcrop showed the highest evenness (J' = 0.84). The study concludes that mistletoes significantly affect a wide range of tree species in Amurum Forest Reserve, with incidence and severity varying by habitat and host characteristics. The riparian forest supports the greatest diversity of infested species due to favorable ecological conditions, while savanna woodland and rocky outcrop show distinct patterns influenced by host availability and environmental constraints. The study recommends habitat-specific management, including silvicultural practices, biological controls, and ongoing monitoring, to lessen mistletoe impacts while preserving ecological benefits