TITLE:
Rapid Ecological and Environmental Assessment of Osun Sacred Forest Grove, Southwestern Nigeria
AUTHORS:
Adisa Ogunfolakan, Chinyere Nwokeocha, Ayodeji Olayemi, Moshood Olayiwola, Adebola Bamigboye, Adenike Olayungbo, Joan Ogiogwa, Oyeseyi Oyelade, Olanipekun Oyebanjo
KEYWORDS:
Osun, Sacred Forest, Rapid Assessment
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Forestry,
Vol.6 No.4,
July
11,
2016
ABSTRACT: Osun
Sacred Forest Grove is a unique landscape that combines important
environmental, biological and cultural features. We conducted a multifaceted
rapid assessment to evaluate the conservation status of the grove eleven years
after it was designated a World Heritage Site. We recorded a rich diversity,
consisting of 2 rock types, 3 minerals, 88 plant species, 108 insect families
and 4 mammal species. Our survey also enabled us document up to 40 cultural
artifacts. However, the plants, small mammals and insects collected, in their
role as indicator taxa, demonstrate that biodiversity decreases extending
outward from the core area of the grove into the buffer and outside zones. In
addition, the detection of heterotrophic bacteria and fungi from
microbiological analyses in water samples of the Osun River which runs through
the grove raises health concerns. Our findings lead us to recommend that
efforts be stepped up to deter encroachment of the buffer and outside zones
into the core area of the grove. Furthermore, careful repair of deteriorating
cultural artifacts should be undertaken regularly, with the actions of visitors
monitored adequately to prevent depletion of biodiversity and pollution of the
environment.