Woody Species Composition and Diversity of Jessu Woodland, Gombe State, Nigeria

Abstract Background This study investigated woody species composition and diversity using Point Centered Quarter and questionnaire methods. Results A total of 36 woody species from 32 genera and 18 families were recorded— 30 species belonging to 27 genera and 16 families were trees, while 6 species belonging to 6 genera and 5 families were shrubs The Fabaceae family had the highest number of 6 tree species. Combretaceae, Chrysobalanaceae and Moraceae had 3 species each, Anacardiaceae, Annonaceae, Bombacaceae and Meliaceae had 2 species each and Arecaceae, Burseraceae, Ebenaceae,Rubiaceae,Sapotaceae, Sterculiaceae, Simaroubaceae and Verbanaceae had 1 species each. For the shrub species, the family Fabaceae had the highest number of 2 species while Anacardiaceae, Apocynaceae, Rutaceae and Sapotaceae had 1 species each. Diversity indices showed a Simpson’s index of 0.40 and a Shannon-Wiener index of 2.07 for trees, while shrubs recorded 0.50 and 1.6, respectively. The main causes of deforestation identified were farming, firewood collection, and logging. About 98% of respondents reported a decline in key tree species such as Holarhena floribunda and Vitex doniana, while 94% observed soil and water degradation. Wildlife populations were also noted to be changing. Although 92% expressed support for conservation efforts, more than half were unaware of any existing initiatives, highlighting a significant gap in environmental awareness. Conclusion The study concludesd that species with low Importance Value Index (IVI), such as Piliostigma reticulatum, Holarhena floribunda, Acacia sieberiana, Vitex doniana, and Ficus polita, require urgent conservation. This study recommends reforestation, environmental education, and stricter regulations to protect and restore the woodland ecosystem.