Types of Environment in Nigeria
Nigeria is a country with a rich diversity of natural resources and a wide variety of environments. From the lush tropical rainforests in the south to the arid Sahel in the north, Nigeria is a country with a wide range of environments that are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. In this article, we will explore the different types of environment in Nigeria and examine their unique features.
Forests
Forests are an important part of the environment in Nigeria. They cover about 6.5% of the country's total land area and are home to a variety of plant and animal species. The two main types of forests in Nigeria are the tropical rainforest and the mangrove forest.
Tropical Rainforest
The tropical rainforest is found in the south-western part of Nigeria, covering about 13% of the total land area of the country. It is characterized by high levels of rainfall, high humidity, and a wide diversity of plant and animal species. Some of the plant species found in the rainforest include mahogany, ebony, rubber, and oil palm. Animals such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and forest elephants are also found in the rainforest.
Mangrove Forest
The mangrove forest is found in the coastal areas of Nigeria, covering about 2% of the total land area. It is characterized by the presence of mangrove trees that grow in shallow waters. The mangrove forest is an important breeding ground for fish and other aquatic animals.
Savannah
The savannah is the most widespread environment in Nigeria, covering about 50% of the total land area. It is characterized by a mix of grassland and scattered trees. The savannah is also home to a wide variety of animal species such as lions, elephants, and buffalo.
Sudan Savannah
The Sudan savannah is found in the northern part of Nigeria, covering about 30% of the total land area. It is characterized by a mix of grassland and scattered trees. The Sudan savannah is also home to a wide variety of animal species such as the African elephant, lion, and leopard.
Guinea Savannah
The Guinea savannah is found in the central part of Nigeria, covering about 20% of the total land area. It is characterized by a mix of grassland and scattered trees. The Guinea savannah is home to a variety of animal species such as the African buffalo, giraffe, and zebra.
Deserts
Deserts are not very common in Nigeria, but there are some areas that are classified as desert. The deserts in Nigeria are characterized by their arid and dry conditions.
Sahel
The Sahel is a semi-arid environment that is found in the northern part of Nigeria, covering about 5% of the total land area. It is characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures. The Sahel is home to a variety of animal species such as the dorcas gazelle, ostrich, and desert fox.
Wetlands
Wetlands are areas that are covered with water for part of the year. They are important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species.
Rivers
Rivers are an important part of the wetland environment in Nigeria. The two main rivers in Nigeria are the Niger River and the Benue River. These rivers are important for transportation, fishing, and irrigation.
Swamps
Swamps are areas that are covered with water for most of the year. They are important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species, including crocodiles, hippos, and mangrove trees.
Conclusion
Nigeria is a country with a rich diversity of natural resources and environments. From the lush tropical rainforests in the south to the arid Sahel in the north, Nigeria is a country with a wide range of environments that are home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. Understanding the different types of environment in Nigeria is important for conservation efforts and for the sustainable use of natural resources.
FAQs
1. What is the most common environment in Nigeria?
The most common environment in Nigeria is the savannah, which covers about 50% of the total land area.
2. What types of forests are found in Nigeria?
The two main types of forests in Nigeria are the tropical rainforest and the mangrove forest.
3. What is the Sahel?
The Sahel is a semi-arid environment that is found in the northern part of Nigeria, covering about 5% of the total land area.
4. What is the importance of wetlands in Nigeria?
Wetlands are important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species, and they are also important for transportation, fishing, and irrigation.
5. What animal species are found in the rainforest?
The rainforest is home to a variety of animal species such as chimpanzees, gorillas, and forest elephants.
