Floristic Diversity of Community Forests in Togo’s Maritime Region

In the context of increasing land-use change, tropical forests are increasingly subjected to anthropogenic pressure, which is impacting their floristic composition. This study was conducted in community forests in the Maritime Region of Togo to assess their floristic diversity. Data were collected from 92 vegetation plots (30 m × 30 m each), arranged along linear transects following an altitudinal gradient. In each plot, ecological variables (e.g., location, geographic coordinates, vegetation type, canopy cover, and management practices) and floristic data (i.e., all plant species present) were recorded. Floristic and ecological data were analyzed using diversity indices (Shannon, Simpson) and spectrum analyses (biological and phytogeographic types). A total of 211 plant species were recorded, belonging to 175 genera and 65 families. The Fabaceae family was the most represented with 44 species (21%), followed by Euphorbiaceae (12 species, 6%) and Poaceae (9 species, 4%). The biological spectrum was dominated by mesophanerophytes and nanophanerophytes. In terms of phytogeographic distribution, GC-SZ and GC types were the most prevalent. The floristic composition and diversity of these community forests appear to be significantly influenced by various anthropogenic pressures, particularly agricultural expansion, urban encroachment, and illegal harvesting. The findings provide valuable insights for developing sustainable forest management strategies and guiding conservation planning and research in the Maritime Region.