Application of IUCN Red List Criteria for Assessment of Some Savanna Trees of Nigeria, West Africa

Abstract

<title>Abstract</title> Nigeria is one of the most floristic rich countries on the continent of Africa due to the variation in climate, which favors the growth of several species. Sadly, its biodiversity is one of the most threatened in the world, mainly due to deforestation and various unsustainable land use patterns, which are human activities. However, these anthropogenic activities are more prevalent in Nigeria's northern savanna zone (NSZ). In this study, we present the first regional conservation assessments and red listing of tree species in the northern savanna zone (NSZ) of Nigeria according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) criteria and categories. We recorded 31 tree species as the most utilized in the region. For the assessments, we provided the fundamental taxonomic information of each species, their local names, and their uses. This study provided the extent of occurrence, area of occupancy, population size and trend, description of habitats, and ecological requirements and discussion of the threats affecting each species and their habitats. We further inform conservation actions and research activities needed to ensure the future of the tree species and their sustainable uses. Overall, approximately 97% of the taxa were evaluated as threatened (41% as endangered, 31% as critically endangered, 24% as vulnerable, and 4% as least concerned). Therefore, we recommend the adoption of the risk status of the species to develop sound conservation strategies and measures for the management of flora in this inundated region.