Abstract:
Khaya ivorensis (K. ivorensis), one of the most valuable tropical hardwood species indigenous to
West and Central Africa, has been classified as a threatened tree species. However, information on
its remaining population and distribution are limited. We mapped the current K. ivorensis spatial
distribution, modelled the spatial autocorrelation and estimated its economic value using volume
estimation and market pricing. The study was conducted in Odigbo and Irele local government areas
(LGA), Ondo State, Nigeria. Spatially, localities of 97 K. ivorensis were identified across the study area
and can be added into a wide range of datasets from local to global inventories. Large trees in diameter
and height were statistically clustered in the north of Odigbo and assumed to relate with forest reserve
management. Estimated median tree volumes were 0.39 m3 and 0.31 m3 in accordance with the
allometric volume function and specific volume function, respectively. The economic values of wood
varied approximately from US$111,208 to US$72,081. Findings from this study are a valuable resource
for conserving this species and other threatened tree species.
