Diversity and Population Status of Tree Species in Bakin-Dutse of Ardo-Kola LGA, Taraba State, Nigeria

Nigerian forest resources are constantly threatened due to many anthropogenic activities and considering their importance in recycling oxygen, preventing erosion, biodiversity habitats etc. This study was carried out determine the diversity population status of trees. A 50km2 plot studied using line transect method, Point Centered Quartet technique deployed enumerate standing tree biomass. Total Height, Diameter at Breast Height Crown cover were also measured recorded. The results showed that 200 trees spread across fifteen (15) families forty (40) species identified. Fabaceae Family had more representatives 12 (30%) while Bignoniaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Meliaceae, Sapotaceae, Rutaceae Olecaceae 1 (2.5%) representation each. Parkia biglobosa highest abundance 37 (18.5%) Anacardium ocidentale, Brachystegia eurycoma, Ceiba pentandra, Cocos nucifera, Combretum molle, Ficus thoninngii, Khaya senegalensis, Haematostaphis barterii, Lannea microcarpa, Limonia. acidissima, Mangifera indica, Mitragyna inermis, Nauclea latifolia, Newbouldia laevis, Psidium guajava Tamarindus indica all recorded least (0.5%). Diversity indices Hʹ=2.65 (North), Hʹ=2.49 (South), Hʹ=2.72 (East) Hʹ=2.37 (West) 90% enumerated need serious conservation efforts. Importance Value (46.84%) recoded (2.21%). It then concluded Bakin-dutse community Ardo-kola LGA needs conserving, hence, we suggest a concerted effort from Governmental Organizations, Non-Governmental Organization Local Community curtail rapid decline these important resources.