Conservation status of key protected areas in the forest-savannah transition zone of Ghana based on red list and genetic heat indices

Abstract Protected areas are the mainstay of biodiversity, serving as important habitats for endangered and threatened species. However, increasing anthropogenic activities threaten their long-term sustainability. This study assessed the conservation status of Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary (BFMS) and Kogyae Strict Nature Reserve (KSNR), two wildlife-protected areas in the transition zone of Ghana, currently facing human-induced disturbances. The Genetic Heat Index (GHI) and Red List Index (RLI) were used to evaluate the conservation status of the sites. The assessment revealed significant conservation values for BFMS and KSNR, with GHI values of 134.24 and 105.41, respectively. BFMS recorded an RLI value of 0.21, while KSNR had a negative RLI value of − 1.55, primarily due to the prevalence of Pterocarpus erinaceus , an endangered tree species on the IUCN Red List. These results reiterate that protected areas are biodiversity hotspots and resilient ecosystems. Immediate action is needed to protect biodiversity and prevent further extinction of valuable tree species. Preserving BFMS and KSNR not only defends against biodiversity loss but also contributes meaningfully to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), 13 (Climate Action) and 15 (Life On Land), particularly in the face of global climate change.