DIVERSITY AND COMPOSITION OF HERBACEOUS PLANT SPECIES IN A RAPIDLY TRANSFORMING FRESHWATER SWAMP ECOSYSTEM IN AKWA IBOM STATE UNIVERSITY PERMANENT SITE
Abstract
Freshwater swamp ecosystem in Akwa Ibom State University Permanent site is facing unprecedented threats from human activities, including deforestation, urbanization, and infrastructure development (Gardner et al., 2015). These activities lead to habitat destruction, pollution, and disruption of ecosystem processes, ultimately threatening the biodiversity and ecological integrity of these ecosystem (Houlahan et al., 2017).
The area has undergone significant changes in recent years due to urbanization, infrastructure development, and agricultural activities (Udo et al., 2017). These changes have led to the degradation and loss of habitats, threatening the diversity and composition of herbaceous plant species in the ecosystem.
Herbaceous plant species play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and biodiversity of freshwater swamp ecosystems. They provide food, shelter, and breeding grounds for various animal species, and help to maintain water quality through nutrient cycling and sedimentation (Cronk and Fennessy, 2001).
Despite their importance, there is a lack of scientific information on the diversity and composition of herbaceous plant species in the Akwa Ibom State University permanent site. This knowledge gap hinders the development of effective conservation and management strategies for the ecosystem.
Therefore, this study aims to investigate the diversity and composition of herbaceous plant species in the rapidly transforming freshwater swamp ecosystem of the Akwa Ibom State University permanent site. The study will provide valuable insights into the ecological status of the ecosystem and inform conservation and management efforts.
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