A REVIEW OF FOREST BIODIVERSITY RESEARCH IN AFRICA

Abstract

A brief history of the development of the vegetation of Africa is given illustrating current patterns of forest cover. The biodiversity value of the continent's forests is then discussed in terms of species richness and endemism. Threats facing Africa's forests are outlined followed by a discussion of current research initiatives aimed at studying and conserving biodiversity in Africa. Subjects covered are forest management; taxonomic studies and the role of herbaria; the role of botanic gardens; climate change; studies of genetic variation; and socio-economic studies and non-timber forest products. The final discussion focuses on where future research should concentrate and the factors governing success at conserving forest biodiversity on the continent.