SURVEY OF THE POTENTIAL INVASIVE ALIEN PLANT SPECIES IN KEFFI, NASARAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Invasive alien plant species are increasingly recognized as significant threats to biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and socio economic stability, particularly in rapidly changing environments. This study investigates the occurrence, distribution, and potential impacts of invasive alien plant species in Keffi Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Through comprehensive field surveys and data collection, the study identifies and compiles a list of invasive species, highlighting their abundance, distribution patterns, and ecological characteristics. The findings reveal a notable presence of species such as Hyptis suavolens and Ludwigia ducurrens, which are known to aggressively invade local ecosystems, out-competing native flora and altering habitat structures. Sample collection at Nasarawa State University showed Hyptis suavolens as the most populated invasive species. Adansonia digitata had very low presence in the Government Reserved Area and Low-cost Housing Estate. These invasive species pose significant threats to local biodiversity, disrupting ecological networks, and potentially leading to long-term ecological degradation. The socio-economic implications are equally concerning, with evidence suggesting that these species reduce agricultural productivity by competing with crops for essential resources, thereby imposing additional financial burdens on local farmers. This research contributes to the body of knowledge on invasive plant species in Nigeria and highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect the ecological integrity of the Keffi Local Government Area.