Quest Journals

Journal of Research in Environmental and Earth Sciences

Volume 7 ~ Issue 8 (2021) pp: 07-11
ISSN(Online) :2348-2532
www.questjournals.org
Research Paper

Biodiversity Conservation and Ethnobotany of Mangrove Species

in the Niger Delta-A Review.
¹ANDREW, Osivmete Victor., ²NDIOKWERE, Gabriella Chioma and
³SMITH-AKOR, Diamond Magnus.
Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Federal Polytechnic Ukana, AkwaIbom State, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT
The biodiversity conservation, and ethnobotany of different mangrove species commonly found in Rivers State-
Niger Delta have been examined. The botanical peculiarities of these species is that they possess specialized
vegetative and reproductive structures which have enhanced their adaptation to their habitat. In this review six
notable mangrove species distributed into three families Rhizophoraceae, Combretaceae and Avicenniaceae
and one exotic species in Arecaceae were found possessing various ethnobotanical applications from fuel wood,
charcoal, thatch making, food, dyes, medicines and ecotourism centre. The implication of these information on
the biodiversity of the mangrove forest to the conservation, management and utilization of the rich potentials in
the forest cannot be over-emphasized. Despite these economic, social and ecological benefits from mangrove
forest, the ecosystem is threatened by human over-exploitation and mismanagement of the resources, pollution
and climate change. In order to sustain the mangrove forest and its rich biodiversity for future generation it is
expedient to incorporate mangrove silviculture and rehabilitation practices, proper working management
systems that will promote long-term economic benefit, enactment of mangrove forest policies, political and
public awareness and environmental concern which will be geared towards promoting sustainable development
and conservation of the forest.
KEYWORDS: Mangrove species, biodiversity, ethnobotany, conservation, ecosystem and sustainable
development.

Received 24 July, 2021; Revised: 07 August, 2021; Accepted 09 August, 2021 © The author(s) 2021.
Published with open access at www.questjournals.org

I. INTRODUCTION
Ethnobotany is the study of plants and their practical utilization via traditional knowledge of a given
local culture and people in a respective geographical area or region. It encompasses the interrelationship
between humans and the plants with special interest in the use of indigenous knowledge to classify plants,
cultivate, use as food, medicine and shelter. In recent time ethnobotanical knowledge has been applied in
modern society, primarily in the form of pharmaceuticals (Soejartoetal., 2005). The major three ecosystem of
the Niger Delta are mangrove, lowland rainforest and freshwater (Izah, 2018). The Niger Delta mangrove
ecosystem is mainly fragmented deltaic formation which is held up by beach ridged island forest intermediary
amidst the coastal beaches and the estuarine mangrove and island within the mangrove forests (Abere and
Ekeke, 2011). These beach ridged are made up of lowland rainforest species which possess large areas of high
quality of biodiversity. The mangrove found in Niger Delta comprises of several plant communities from land to
sea, and it is among the richest in biodiversity in its ecosystem services. But due to insufficient data the
mangrove ecosystem in the Niger Delta have not been distinctly mentioned globally. In Africa, Nigeria has the
largest mangrove forest and is ranked third in the world. The Niger Delta area habours Nigeria’s mangrove
forest which is one of the most exploited in the world and is estimated to cover between 5000km3 and 8500km3
(Nwilo and Badejo, 2007). Rivers State which is one of the Niger Delta States is composed of mangrove well
defined by regular salt-water inundation. Izah (2018) reported that there are approximately 30,000 hectares of
exploitable mangroves in Rivers State, bearing a volume of nearly 5,600,00km3 of wood inside the bark. These
species (mangrove) grow on various substratum (substrates), but the great bulk are found on muddy soils. In
River State, the chief towns and mangrove dependent local governments are; Abua-Odual, Akulga, Asalga,
Andoni, Bonny and Degema amongst others. These local governments are located on such beach ridged forest
island within the mangrove ecosystem. These rich mangrove ecosystem holds the planet and the community of
persons living close its shores in a particular way, from fixing breeding grounds for fish (es) to carbon storage
*Corresponding Author: ANDREW, Osivmete Victor 7 | Page
 Biodiversity Conservation And Ethnobotany Of Mangrove Species In The Niger Delta-A Review.

and flood protection. In spite of their uniqueness and significance the mangrove forest in River State especially
in Degema axis is under a huge threat. Presently, in the Degema areas of River State over a third part have been
destroyed. The clearance results from industrial development, infrastructure projects and petroleum exploration
leading to oil spill. Besides, change in climate and some environmental condition give rise to emerging
pollutants.
There are also local threats such as; over harvesting of woods for fuel, construction and over harvesting
of fish (over fishing) leading to disruption of food chain and fish communities. Before now causes of oil
pollution which is a major hazard for the marine and coastal environment has been; damage to oil tanker ship
through collision with other ships, explosion or wrecking, seepage from offshore installation and flushing of
tanker holds but recently the major destruction faced by the coastal ecosystem (mangrove forest) in Degema-
River State is locally made petroleum called ″kpoo fire″ which has drastically cleared off most of the mangrove
forest in the area making it an open sea or in mini-ocean. This menace has caused deforestation which is global
issue of a great concern alongside with many of the mangrove ecosystem species now becoming rare and their
long term survival now in doubt. This if not checked will lead to biodiversity loss of the mangrove forest and
affect in the inhabitants who are sustained by this forest negatively and also pose a threat to the biosphere in
general. In addition, rural communities in Degema depend on the mangrove forest (because they are fishermen)
for commercial values and exploit for their livelihood. Also over-exploitation of these mangrove forest (and its
resources) can endanger certain species existence or even lead them into extinction. The mangrove ecosystem
inhabits various biological species including fish (es), aquatic animals, reptiles, shrimps, water hyacinth, algae,
cat fish, crab, macrophyte, planktons, zooplanktons tec. (Idu, 2015; Izah and Srivastav, 2017). Despite the
importance of the mangrove forest and its unique resources that help to sustain life and livelihood, and the huge
wealth in its biodiversity, no conservative measure has been taken to protect the mangrove forest that is
threatened and endangered. Conservation of the biodiversity would protect the coastal swamps from hazards of
marine erosion, pollution, local threats and retain the mangrove in their natural state as a wealth treasure for the
local inhabitants. The Federal government of Nigeria have devised measure to protect biodiversity of various
areas which includes 8 national parks, 12 strict nature reserves, 28 game reserves and 445 forest resources
excluding the mangrove forest (FRN Report 2010). Therefore the study aims to give an insight on biodiversity
conservation and ethnobotanical uses of mangrove species in Niger Delta.

MANGROVES SPECIES IN THE NIGER DELTA

Mangal is a plant community and habitat where mangrove thrives. Mangroves are found in tropical and
sub-tropical tidal areas with high degree of salinity. The Niger Delta mangrove ecosystem is encompassed with
brackish water referred to as estuarine (salt and fresh water interface) (Izah and Srivastav, 2017). The salinity
level in estuarine is lower than that of marine but higher than that of fresh water (Izah, 2018), which is
influenced by mangrove species with narrow strip of beach ridges. Many authors have reported the presence of
five mangrove species in Niger Delta which includes Rhizophoraracemose(red mangrove),Rhizophora mangle
andRhizophoraharrisonii(short red manrove),Aviecenniagerminans(white mangrove)
andLagunculariaracemose(black mangrove) and an exotic introduced species such as Nypafruticanmaking a
total of six mangrove species (Jamabo and Chinda, 2010; Oyambaetal., 2016; Ohimainetal., 2014). In addition
the species Conocarpuserectus(button mangrove) is found in Degema axis of River State making it a total of
seven mangrove species in Niger Delta. The three Rhizophora species commonly called red mangrove has a
characteristic feature on their own. Although mangrove belong to various unrelated families they share in
certain physiological and structural traits, which enhance their growth and productivity in the highly stressful,
fragile and difficult ecosystem where they are found. In the Niger Delta region, the genus Rhizophoraand
Avicenniarecords for a substantial amount found. Also Rhizophoraracemoseis the most abundant, expanding
about 90% of the mangrove forest, occurring at the exterior part of the water body (Abere and Ekeke, 2011).
Apart from the mangrove species found in the areas, other grasses, sedges and most importantly the mangrove
fern Acrostichumaureumisseen predominantly in the ecosystem. The taxon Rhizophoraracemose is the first and
the largest among the three species of the Rhizophoraceaefamily and it grows in soft muddy banks of brackish
water accompanied by Rhizophoraharrisoniiand Rhizophora mangle. Rhizophoraharrisonii is considered a
mutative hybrid of Rhizophora mangle and Rhizophoraracemose. The mangrove forest houses fish (es),
planktons, (phytoplanktons and zooplanktons), macro-benthic organism, shelled fish (es), periwinkles, birds,
insects, monkeys, oysters, crabs and other invertebrates (Ayanlade, 2014).

ETHNOBOTANY OF MANGROVE SPECIES

Ethnobotany is the study of how people of a particular culture and region make use of indigenous
plants or plant resource. The mangrove species have been exploited by aborigens of Degema in Rivers State for
timber, fuel wood, charcoal, fishing tools and also seen as fishing grounds since the coast was colonized. Hence
the local knowledge about different mangrove species and their different utilization and characteristics turn
around this knowledge and the economic importance of the mangroves. Although the people (Degema) have
*Corresponding Author: ANDREW, Osivmete Victor 8 | Page
 Biodiversity Conservation And Ethnobotany Of Mangrove Species In The Niger Delta-A Review.

interacted with their mangrove plants for ages but no inventory and documentation of this relationship have
been carried out. The study will attempt to provide a proper inventory and document ethnobotanical uses of
these mangrove species found in Degema, Niger Delta- Nigeria. It is believed that this unique potential drawn
from these mangrove species will help in improvement, development, management on sustained-yield and
conservation of the rich mangrove resource of the area. In addition, to provide alternative sources of income and
energy for the aborigens of Degema whose mangrove ecosystem is destroyed by oil pollution, emerging
pollutants from pharmaceuticals, pesticides, environmental degradation and other local threats ( over harvesting
etc.). Table 1 gives a summary of the ethnobotanical uses of mangrove species.

CHARCOAL PRODUCTION
Rhizophora species yields the best wood for charcoal production. Harvested woods are transported
home and burnt down in kiln to generate charcoal. The charcoal is bagged and sold in the market. The charcoal
obtained from the red mangroves are the heaviest charcoal, which is also used in some industries like metal
production industries. It is also used by food vendors to roast food because the wood produce a high calorific
value. Also charcoal is used to remove sour taste from soup by dropping about 3-5 piece in a boiling pot of
soured soup.

CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL (BUILDING, POLE, WOOD)

Mangrove lumbers are used for construction of building but Rhizophora species are the most effective
ones. Axe and machete are used to cut down these mangrove stems but in recent time, sawing machine is now
applied for cutting mangrove stems. The wood is sawed into different sizes on the basis of its diameter and used
as plywood for building, poles for wall filling, scaffold, bridges, boats, roof frames, and fencing for tourist. A bit
larger poles from mangrove stems are used to build main frame of house walls which are alter replenished with
mud in local communities.

FISH RACKS (TRAYS)

Seedlings or matured prop (breathing) roots from mangrove species precisely from Rhizophora are
used in making racks. The seedling or prop roots are harvested fresh and sliced into the desired diameter (sizes)
then woven into fish racks that are used as trays for drying fish (es), prawn, shrimps, crabs, groundnuts etc.

BAFFLES
Mangroves plants are used in making baffles. A belt of mangrove species is built to help dissipate the
energy of the surging waves, thereby protecting coastal dwelling. Sometimes these baffles are used in tourism.

THATCH MAKING
The fronds of Nypa palm is harvested using machete and the leaflets are sliced out and used in making
thatches for roofing houses. In waving of shingles, leaf stake are cut into different lengths and sliced into five or
six divisions framed as a rib. Two to three leaflets are then folded approximately midway over the rid and
stitched into place, using a strip of peel removed from the leaf stalk.

DYE/TANNIN
The bark of Rhizophora species are harvested using axe or machete and soaked in a bucket of cold or
warm water and allowed to stand for 24-48 hours depending on individual need. After which the slices are
sieved out from the supernatant and then clothes or nets are soaked in the dye (red, black-red) and sun dried. It
could also be boiled in hot water to bring out the dye (red-brown).

MEDICINE
Two forms of medicinal purpose were observed. Firstly, a combination of Black mangroves and leaves
and Rhizophora leaves are harvested and boiled together until a perfect supernatant is formed. This is then
administered to the patient in the recommended dosage (1 cup twice daily) as it relates to the nature of the
illness. This preparation is used in the treatment of malaria. Secondly, it is used in the treatment of haemorrhage.
The young breathing root of red mangrove (i.e. the succulent part: the tip) is harvested and chewed or beaten to
bring out the exudate which is squeezed out and applied onto the affected area of the injury and then two to
three leaflets of red mangrove are used to cover and tied with a rope. This is the best and fastest method known
in treatment of haemorrhage.

ASHES
The ashes generated from Rhizophora is very important. First, it is used in cooking. The ashes are
collected, soaked in a bucket or pot of water and allowed to sediment and then sieved (decanted) to remove
impurities (dirt etc.). The concentrated water (water with ashes) is now used in cooking plantain, which helps in
*Corresponding Author: ANDREW, Osivmete Victor 9 | Page
 Biodiversity Conservation And Ethnobotany Of Mangrove Species In The Niger Delta-A Review.

reducing the cooking time and retaining the colour of the plantain. Secondly, the ashes are a perfect soap for
washing of pots and pose no irritating effect on the skin unlike detergent. Also a mixture of grounded charcoal
and ashes is a perfect paste for tooth brushing that helps to remove plague and stains on the teeth.

FUEL WOOD
The wood from mangrove forest are widely used by dwellers as fuel wood. Rhizophora species and
Avicennia species are the preferred sources of fuel wood which are sold in designated areas in the town.

ECOTOURISM AND RECREATION

The mangrove forest is used by dwellers for relaxation points or tourist centres. Because often times dwellers
use this environment for activities lime sporting, festivals celebration, chieftaincy canoe regatta etc.

Table 1.List of mangrove species identified and their ethnobotanical uses.

SPECIES PLANT PARTS PRODUCTS USES
Conocarpuserectus L. Stem Poles Fence, home tools, fuel wood, building etc.
Avicenniagerminans L. Leaves, bark, stem Wood, fodder, medicine Cooking, animal feed, ulcer,throat pain,
construction, building etc.
Rhizophoraracemose G. F. W Leaves, bark, stem Charcoal, fuel wood, canoe, Baking, roasting, transportation, dying, drying
Meyer paddles, racks (trays), dyes fish, (es), shrimps etc., clothes, railway
(tannins), poles, wood, ashes slippers, cooking, washing pots, toothpaste,
agriculture (in crop propagation).

NypafruticanWurmb Leaves, fruits Leaves, fruits Thatch making, human feed.

Lagunculariaracemose L., Bark, stem, leaves Medicine, wood Antidysenteric properties, malaria,
Gaertn F. construction, astringent

Rhizophoramangle L. Root, leaves Charcoal, medicine, wood, Cooking, building, fishing, construction,
timber haemorrhage.

RhizophoraharrisonniLeechman Stem, leaves, bark Wood, charcoal, dye (tannins) Cooking, construction, axe handle, roasting,
baking, clothes, fishing.

POTENTIAL THREATS OF THE MANGROVE FOREST IN THE NIGER DELTA

In the Niger Delta, the loss of the mangrove forest and its rich biodiversity and the relevant alternation
in the environment are now constant than ever before in history and there is no palliative measure taken to slow
the process down. The potential threats to the mangrove ecosystem of the area are oil and gas exploration which
is the bedrock of the scourge because all the oil companies in the Niger Delta are located in the mangrove forest.
The activities of these oil and gas companies have succeeded into degradation, deforestation and fragmentation
of the mangrove ecosystem. Also dredging, urbanization and the exotic invasive Nypa palm species have all led
to environmental degradation of the mangrove forest. The oil spillages have portrayed a constant negative
impact (pollution) on the mangrove forest leading to death of the mangrove plants and other aquatic lives
(Ohimainetal., 2008). Presently the locally made petroleum called ″kpoo fire″ by the youths of the Niger Delta
has contributed to the detrimental effect of great loss of biodiversity of the mangrove ecosystem. This if not
checked will lead to loss of the biodiversity of the area. Also the loss of the mangrove resources through
excessive exploitation, illegal poaching, deforestation, use of chemical for fishing etc. have contributed a great
impact on the diversity composition and abundance of the mangrove forest in Niger Delta. This effect has
predisposed many species into being threatened, endangered and extinct. Enaruvbe and Atafo (2016) have
reported that the high rate of deforestation and pollution in the water ways of the Niger Delta is leading to
environmental degradation thereby improving loss of biodiversity and important goods and services from the
ecosystem. Also Adekola and Mitchell (2001) have opined that this loss of biodiversity in Niger Delta especially
in the mangrove forest is as a result of population growth and weak governance which has led to water
pollution/ contamination, human activities such as dredging, oil and gas exploration, fish (es) migration,
invasive plant infestation, wetland reclamation and shrinkage of the wetland. The rate of degradation has
increased continuously without plans for conservation or replacement which has introduced a major threat to
humans and the environment at large. This anthropogenic and other activities if not checked can lead to
extinction of the mangroves and other aquatic lives found in the Niger Delta.

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION
The idea of custodianship which challenges us to pass onto future generations all the diversity of life
and quality of the environment that we inherited is the main point in biodiversity conservation. The mangrove

*Corresponding Author: ANDREW, Osivmete Victor 10 | Page

 Biodiversity Conservation And Ethnobotany Of Mangrove Species In The Niger Delta-A Review.

biodiversity is a life support system and its depletion has risen a serious environmental and economic concern. It
is evident that over-exploitation of the mangrove resources and oil exploration has impacted negatively on the
biological, ecological and economic importance of the forest. Therefore a balance between the environment,
development and society is consequential to sustainable development which confirms biodiversity conservation.
The indiscriminate over-exploitation of the mangrove forest on food security and healthcare should be
monitored. The mangrove dependent communities should be educated on conservative and sustainable methods.
Also integrated research and training institute on wetland ecosystem, NGO’s including the oil companies
impacting the spills should support and contribute towards development of the mangrove-dependent
communities and also secure positive measures in cleaning up the environment. Government should enact laws,
policies and enforce it on exploitation of the resources of the mangrove forest. There should be promotion in situ
and ex-situ conservation and also community based conservation participation in the process. Ethnobotany
offers an effective approach to plant biodiversity and conservation because, it provides a wealth of information
which can be exploited scientifically.

II. CONCLUSION
Human activity has contributed a great loss in biodiversity of the mangrove forest endangering aquatic
species founds in the environment. The clearing of mangrove species or forest leads to loss of valuable habitats,
thereby threatening the survival of other species. Apart from the discovered potentials in the mangrove forest
there are undiscovered biological materials that could benefit man and the environment. The ethnobotanicaluses
of mangrove species by the Degema people in Niger Delta has been emphasised. It is therefore expedient to
incorporate mangrove silviculture and rehabilitation, and management systems that will promote and
complement long term economic benefits to the dwellers. In addition, political and public awareness on the
mangrove forest and environmental concerns and the need to promote sustainable development and conservation
will help to foster cooperation among government and dwellers while achieving good standard of living. Finally,
enforcement laws on mangrove land use act, mangrove forest policy and adoption of rules and regulations
should be practised to save the forest from total loss.

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*Corresponding Author: ANDREW, Osivmete Victor 11 | Page