Effect of Altitude on Species Diversity and Vegetation Structure of Kigelia africana Parklands in Cameroon

Abstract

In the Faro Subdivision (North, Cameroon), there are populations of Kigelia africana, known by the common name “Dambale", whose variety is largely unknown. The study's goal is to demonstrate how altitude affects species diversity and vegetation structure in Kigelia africana parklands. To gather information for statistical analysis, a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was employed. A total of 90 quadrats of 50×50 m each (covering 22.5 ha) were sampled and inventoried under Kigelia africana stands in the three altitudinal classes (154-1002 m, 1002-1312 m, and 1312-2015 m). For each altitudinal slice, the diameter and height were measured. The floristic analysis was conducted using floristic richness and diversity indices, and each altitude level's demographic structure was assessed. There are 29 species in all, categorized into 24 genera and 13 families. In terms of flora, low altitudes are richer and more varied than higher altitudes. The largest density (72 individuals/ha) is found between 154 and 1002 m. The highest basal area (23.52 m²/ha) is found between 1002 and 1312 m. The height structure for each altitude level showed that the number of individuals decreases from low height classes to high height classes. This study shows that Kigelia africana could support rational exploitation in the Poli area so that its potential is not affected.