With the aid of Nigeria map describe five local biotic communities in nigeria
1. Mangrove Forests: The mangrove forest biotic community is primarily found in Nigeria's southern coastal areas, particularly in the Niger Delta region. The mangroves serve as a habitat for various species of plants and animals, including crustaceans, mollusks, and fish. Red mangroves, white mangroves, and black mangroves are common tree species in this biotic community, providing essential breeding grounds for a variety of aquatic organisms.
2. Rainforests: The rainforest biotic community in Nigeria is located in the southwestern and southeastern regions, with the largest concentration in Cross River State. This ecosystem features a multitude of plant and animal species, including several endangered species like the African forest elephant, the Cross River gorilla, and the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee. The diverse plant species in the rainforest contribute to the area's rich biodiversity, supporting a vast array of indigenous flora and fauna.
3. Guinea Savanna: This biotic community stretches across the middle belt of Nigeria and is characterized by a mix of grasslands and scattered deciduous trees. The Guinea Savanna supports a range of wildlife including antelope, buffalo, monkeys, and various species of birds. The dominant tree species here are Isoberlinia doka and Isoberlinia tomentosa, which provide essential habitats for many animals.
4. Sudan Savanna: Located in the northern part of Nigeria, the Sudan Savanna is a biotic community characterized by vast grasslands with sparse tree cover. The climate in this region is semi-arid, supporting drought-resistant vegetation such as acacia trees, baobabs, and various grasses. This region is home to several animals adapted to the arid conditions, including the African bush elephant, giraffe, and various antelope species.
5. Sahel (Desert) Biotic Community: The Sahel ecosystem is situated in the extreme northern region of Nigeria, along the edge of the Sahara Desert. This biotic community is dominated by semi-desert grasslands and shrublands, characterized by extreme aridity and low vegetation cover. The Sahel supports hardy wildlife species adapted to harsh conditions, including the Dorcas gazelle, the desert monitor lizard, and the Ostrich. Vegetation in this area is sparse, consisting mainly of grasses, shrubs, and acacia trees.
These five biotic communities represent the diverse range of ecosystems found within Nigeria, each supporting its unique collection of flora and fauna, and playing a crucial role in preserving the country's biodiversity.