अमूर्त

Ecological Services of a Peri-Urban Recreation Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria

JA Soaga*, A Adeleye

Purpose: This study examines the consumption of renewable natural resources without market price by the people to promote conservation in the outlier of urban environment. The resources however offer ecosystem services to protect man and the environment .

Methods: Socio economic profile of respondents and natural resources data were gathered using two methods. Questionnaire as a socio economic tool was used to gather data from respondents for socio-economic profile and natural resources data were obtained through bio-physical study of available renewable resources. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis.

Results: The result shows gender sensitivity with female domination (64%) of the respondents and 36% male, age range 21-40 years accounted for 43% with mean age of 41 years. Further, some (44%) respondents were Christian, Tertiary education recorded the highest educational level with 53% and Ogun state had the highest State of origin distribution with 77%. A total of 30 flora species w as identified and family fabaceae with 6 species contributed more to the ecosystem services of the park than other families with 3 species. Furthermore, trees with diameter >11 cm had higher carbon sequestration potential with 1009,776 kgCha⁻¹, Above Ground Biomass of 2456.795 kg and Below Ground Biomass of 272.33 kg. A total of 25 fauna species was recorded as offering ecosystem services and Mammals with 31 species had the highest number of species offering ecosystem services followed by Aves with 14 speci es and reptiles with 13 species.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the study revealed that flora and fauna species offer a wide range of ecosystem services ranging from cultural, supporting, regulating, and provisioning services. It is suggested that recreation policy should ensure that proper and adequate sensitization through electronic media to enlighten the general public on recreation and the significance of flora and fauna in human health and the environment.