Nigerian lowland forests

The Nigerian lowland forests are bounded on the south by coastal mangroves and the Gulf of Guinea, on the east by the Niger River and its delta, on the north by the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic. On the west it is bounded by the Dahomey Gap, a drier coastal region where forest-savanna mosaic extends all the way to the ocean, separating the Lower Guinean forests, of which the Nigerian lowland forests are part, from the Upper Guinean forests of West Africa.[6]

The climate of the ecoregion is Tropical savanna climate - dry winter (Köppen climate classification (Aw)). This climate is characterized by relatively even temperatures throughout the year, and a pronounced dry season. The driest month has less than 60 mm of precipitation, and is drier than the average month.[7][8]

Nigerian lowland forests are recognized as one of the biodiversity hotspots in Africa.[1] They support a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. The region is home to numerous endemic plant species, including rare and endangered ones.[9] The forests provide habitat for a rich variety of animals, such as primates (including the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee), elephants, leopards, antelopes, reptiles, amphibians, and a vast array of bird species.[10]

About 48% of the territory is closed forest, mostly broadleaf evergreen trees. Another 36% is open forest, 5% is urban and built up, and the remainder is wetland and herbaceous cover.[4] Because rainfall declines with distance from the sea, the ecoregion exhibits climate bands with vegetation zones that parallel the coast. Closest to the sea is the rain forest zone, then the mixed deciduous forest zone and farthest inland the parkland zone.[2] In the rainforest zone the common trees are of the Leguminosae family (Brachystegia), Cylicodiscus gabunensis, Gossweilerodendron balsamiferum, Piptadeniastrum africanum, and by the Meliaceae family (Entandrophragma, Guarea, Khaya ivorensis, and Lovoa trichilioides.[2]

While in general the levels of animal endemism is low in the ecoregion, there are some notable endemic species. The endangered white-throated guenon (Cercopithecus erythrogaster) is only found in this ecoregion. The endangered Ibadan malimbe (Malimbus ibadanensis) is found in the northern parkland zone. A recent survey of the Niger Delta recorded the endangered crested genet (Genetta cristata). The Nigeria crag gecko (Cnemaspis petrodroma) and the Perret's toad (Bufo perreti) have also been recorded in the region.[2]

Nigerian lowland forests face several threats and conservation challenges.[9] Deforestation, mainly driven by agricultural expansion, logging, and urbanization, poses a significant risk to the integrity of these forests.[11] The conversion of forested areas to farmland and the extraction of timber have resulted in habitat fragmentation, loss of biodiversity, and increased vulnerability to invasive species. Additionally, illegal logging and unsustainable hunting practices further exacerbate the conservation challenges.[12][13]

Several initiatives and organizations are working to protect and conserve the Nigerian lowland forests. The Nigerian government, along with international conservation organizations, has established protected areas and national parks to safeguard the biodiversity within these forests. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable land-use practices, reforestation, and community-based conservation programs. Local communities and indigenous groups are actively involved in conservation efforts, as their livelihoods and cultural heritage are intricately linked to the forests.

Research studies are conducted in the Nigerian lowland forests to better understand the ecological processes, identify species richness, and assess the impacts of human activities. Educational programs and awareness campaigns are essential for promoting conservation values among local communities and raising awareness about the importance of preserving these forests for future generations.

Nominally, about 17% of the ecoregion is under some form of official protection, including:[4]

• Akure Ofosu Forest Reserve
• Gilli-Gilli Game Reserve
• Ifon Game Reserve
• Kwale Game Reserve
• Okomu National Park
• Omo Forest Reserve
• Orle River Game Reserve
• Owo Forest Reserve