The map of Nigeria and describing five local biotic communities in nigeria.
Nigeria is located in West Africa and shares borders with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. The country covers an area of about 923,768 square kilometers (356,669 square miles) and has a diverse climate, ranging from arid in the north to tropical in the south. This varied climate gives rise to a wide range of biotic communities, which are as follows:
1. Mangrove Forests
Located in the Niger Delta and the Atlantic coastline of southern Nigeria, mangrove forests are one of the most important biotic communities in the country. These forests serve as a thriving ecosystem, supporting various species of fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and birds. They also act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and assist in the filtration of pollutants in the water.
2. Rainforests
Nigeria's tropical rainforests are primarily found in the southern and southeastern regions of the country, and they harbor a diverse range of flora and fauna. This biotic community hosts numerous tree species, climbers, epiphytes, and herbaceous plants, as well as a diverse range of mammals, birds, insects, and reptiles. Some of the most iconic species found in Nigerian rainforests include chimpanzees, western lowland gorillas, forest elephants, and several endemic bird species.
3. Savannah
Covering a large area of Nigeria's central and northern regions, the savannah is one of the most extensive biotic communities in the country. The savannah is made up of grasslands interspersed with trees and shrubs, and is home to numerous species of mammals, such as elephants, giraffes, antelopes, lions, and hyenas. This biome also supports various bird species, reptiles, and insects, and provides essential habitats for a wide variety of plant species.
4. Sahel
The Sahel region stretches across Nigeria's far northern areas and borders the Sahara Desert to the north. It is characterized by a semi-arid climate, with sparse vegetation and limited water sources. The Sahel's biotic community is adapted to these harsh conditions and includes drought-tolerant grasses, acacia trees, and scrubby vegetation. Wildlife in this biome consists of species like oryx, African wild dogs, dorcas gazelles, and several migratory bird species.
5. Freshwater ecosystems
Nigeria's freshwater ecosystems include rivers, lakes, and wetlands scattered across the country, with the Niger and Benue rivers being the most prominent. These ecosystems support a rich diversity of aquatic and semi-aquatic flora and fauna. The biotic community includes various species of fish, amphibians, reptiles, and birds, as well as numerous macrophytes and phytoplankton species that help maintain clean water and support the surrounding wildlife.
Each of these biotic communities in Nigeria faces threats from human activities, including deforestation, agricultural expansion, hunting, and pollution. Conservation efforts and sustainable development initiatives are necessary to protect these unique and diverse habitats and the species that depend on them.