Assessment of Biodiversity and Ecological Integrity of Dandaudu Forest Reserve, Katsina State

Forest reserves in the Sudan savanna zone of Katsina State face severe degradation pressure from livestock grazing, fuelwood extraction, and encroachment, yet baseline ecological integrity assessments are lacking for many of these reserves, limiting the ability of state forestry authorities to monitor and respond to degradation trends. This study assesses the biodiversity and ecological integrity of Dandaudu Forest Reserve in Katsina State, providing a current-state baseline for comparison with historical management records and future monitoring. A stratified systematic sampling design established 48 plots across three management zones: the closed core, the buffer strip, and the fringe zone. Tree, shrub, and grass species were inventoried, with density, frequency, and cover recorded. Ecological integrity was assessed using a composite index incorporating species richness, proportion of indigenous species, evidence of regeneration, fire scar extent, and grazing pressure indicators. Separate assessments quantified stump density as an indicator of past illegal felling, and dung density transects estimated livestock intrusion intensity. Results indicate a sharp ecological integrity gradient from core to fringe zones, with the core retaining acceptable species composition while fringe zones show severe degradation consistent with open-access exploitation. Eleven invasive or ruderal species were present only in fringe zones. Regeneration adequacy was poor across all zones, indicating a failure of natural recruitment even in protected sections. Immediate fencing of the core zone and community negotiated grazing rules for buffer areas are recommended as priority management responses. Keywords: forest reserve, ecological integrity, biodiversity baseline, Katsina State, Sudan savanna