Investigating Biogeographical Distribution of Aloe in Nigeria Based on Herbarium Records for Conservation Purpose

Abstract

Genus Aloe is threatened and therefore needs to be given conservation interventions to prevent its extirpation. This study investigated Aloe natural distribution in Nigeria based on herbarium records which is a step towards the conservation of these taxa in Nigeria. Herbarium records of all Aloe species in Nigeria were obtained from Forest Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) herbarium. A distribution map was constructed to determine the region of high diversity of Aloe in Nigeria. This study revealed that Aloe natural occurrence was more in the southern part of Nigeria. A pilot survey of Aloe populations in the southern part of Nigeria is recommended to determine the current state of the populations of these species in their natural distribution in Nigeria so that a conservation plan for these species in Nigeria can be formulated.