Assessing Floristic Diversity and Ecological Characteristics of Mount Mbapit Savannah, Western Highlands of Cameroon

Abstract

Background and Objective: Cameroon is one of the richest biologically diverse African countries due to its wide range of altitudes, topographic features and agroecological zones. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the floristic diversity and functional traits of Mount Mbapit Savannah, West Cameroon. Materials and Methods: Floristic data were collected on a total of 62 sample plots of 10×10 m between May and June, 2014, 2015 and 2022. Frequency, abundance and diversity indices were computed for the floristic diversity and life traits spectra (growth habit, life form, leaf size, diaspore type, dispersal syndromes and phytogeographical affinities). Results: In total, 144 plant species (91 herbaceous and 53 woody) belonging to 110 genera and 50 families were identified. The most abundant families were Poaceae (28 species) and Asteraceae (20 species). The species diversity indices were Shannon-Weaver (4.92 and 3.61) and evenness index (0.73 and 0.62) for herbaceous and woody species, respectively. The most represented life forms were phanerophytes (43.75%). Anemochory (45.83%) was the dominant dispersal syndrome. Phytogeographical distribution analysis showed the predominance of afro-tropical species. Conclusion: Appropriate conservation measures such as assisted natural regeneration and increased protection should be taken for the threatened species.