Evaluation of Species Diversity in Forest Fragments : A Case Study of Semi-Deciduous Forest Type in Ghana

The disappearance of the Tropical forest has resulted in the forest subsisting as fragments of the original forest. Techniques to evaluate species diversity of these forest fragments are vital for the elaboration of conservation strategies to support preservation of species in the remaining fragments. This book sort to estimate tree species diversity within two forest fragments in Ghana. The regeneration potential of the tree species was also assessed which by far outnumbered the matured trees necessitating an investigation into the possible means of dispersal for the new species. No other natural forests were present in the area and far beyond, therefore wind, birds and mammals are the possible vectors of seed dispersal. A bird and mammalian species inventory was conducted to evaluate their activity as possible seed dispersers. The forest inventory and data analysis revealed that the surveyed forest fragments are seriously degenerated in terms of structure and composition but still holds a good regeneration potential and contributes to the preservation of biodiversity.