Distribution, diversity and abundance of anuran species in three different vegetation habitats in southwestern Nigeria

The distribution, diversity and abundance of anuran species in three different vegetation habitats of Southwestern Nigeria were investigated. A total mean number of 388 individuals comprising 32 species were observed in the forest, 766 individuals in 28 species were recorded in the fallowed farmland and 278 individuals in 21 species in the savanna. There was significant difference (F2, 129 = 3.602) between the numbers of anuran species inhabiting the three vegetation habitats at P < 0.05 as well as significant difference (F2, 129 = 5.811)   between the number of individuals of anuran species in the three vegetation habitats (P<0.01). The dominant species in the forest was Arthroleptis variabilis (9.02%) and the least abundant species in the forest were Leptopelis macrotis, Phlyctimantis boulengeri and Nectophryne afra each having 0.26%. Amietophrynus maculatus and A. regularis were both abundant in the fallowed farmland and savanna habitats. The least abundant species in the fallowed farmland was Leptopelis calcaratus (0.13%) while the least abundant in the savanna were Xenopus muelleri and Afrixalus dorsalis each with 0.72%. Thirty percent of anuran species observed occurred in all the vegetation habitats, while 27%, 11% and 7% were restricted to the forest, fallowed farmland and savanna respectively. Most amphibian species were observed and collected between the 18h-21h sampling time frame which confers them as mostly nocturnal in habit. Conservation efforts must be enforced to protect the vegetative structure against unsustainable forest practices in order to protect and maintain the biodiversity status of the region.Keywords: Distribution, Diversity, Nigeria, Vegetation, Forest and Savann

Effect of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) Plantation Types on the Distribution of Anuran Communities in Ore, Ondo State, Nigeria

Anuran species diversity and abundance were evaluated in different farming status of cocoa plantation  in Ore, Ondo State, Nigeria. Applying the combination of visual encounter survey (VES) and acoustical survey (AES), the different farms surveyed were categorized as; 1) pure cocoa farms with pesticides applied (PCWP); 2) pure cocoa farms without pesticides application; 3) intercropped cocoa farms with pesticides applied (ICWP); and 4) intercropped cocoa farms  without pesticides application (ICNP). The surrounding primary/secondary forest (PSFV) was sampled applying the transect method. A mean total of 690±2.6 anurans belonging to 28 species, 14 genera and 9 families were recorded during the study. Out of these, 10, 19, 17, 22 and 26 species were recorded  respectively from PCWP, PCNP, ICWP, ICNP and PSFV. The anuran species richness was significantly different between the different cocoa  plantation status and the forest sites (F4, 10 = 20.55, P< 0.01). The highest mean number of  individuals (190±9.5) was observed at ICNP followed by PSFV (183±5.7), while the least was at PCWP (77±8.0). There was also significant difference (F4, 10 = 150.48, P< 0.01) between the abundance of anuran species at the various  sites. Diversity indices (Shannon and Margalef) showed that the forest sites had the greatest (3.204 and 4.799) respectively while the pesticide using pure  cocoa farms had the least (1.853 and 2.072). Generally, the result of the study clearly indicated that pesticide use cocoa farms were significantly lower  compared to other sites. Farmers are encouraged to engage in intercropping (polyculture) especially with food and economic crops in a biodiversity friendly manner which could have similar characteristics of a natural ecosystem, thereby enhancing the  biological diversity of agro-ecosystems. © JASEMKeywords: Anuran, cocoa, pesticides, intercropped, biological diversity and agro-ecosystem

Analysis of bushmeat collection and trade in Epe, Ikorodu and Oyingbo (Lagos State)

Bushmeat hunting and trade in Epe, Ikorodu and Oyingbo in Lagos State were investigated. Data were obtained by interview method using questionnaire administered separately to hunters in Epe and Ikorodu and traders in Epe, Ikorodu and Oyingbo. The hunters were all men, mostly young adults between age 21 and 40 years old hunted mainly for consumption. Similar pattern of hunting was observed in both Epe and Ikorodu with mammals constituting the highest population of hunted animals. Daily offtake of animals from the hunting site was between 1–10 animals with rodents being the highest. Hunting was significantly affected by season (P<0.001) with the highest number of catch in the dry season. The quantities of bushmeat purchased by traders were not significantly different (P>0.05) in the various markets. Bushmeat prices from hunters ranged from ₦1000 to ₦20,000. Bushmeat traders were older adults of 41-60 years (52%) of which 78.3% were women. About 63.3% (38) of traders sold only mammals while 36.7% (22) sold all types including mammals, reptiles and birds. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in the trader’s average bushmeat purchase price as well as the average sales price. Highest selling price of bushmeat was recorded in Ikorodu while the lowest selling price was recorded in Oyingbo. Highest profit was reported by traders selling mammalian species of bushmeat. Sales was significantly affected by seasons (P<0.001), with the highest sales during the rainy season. Measures that would ensure sustainable utilization of bushmeat species should be established. Furthermore, the participation of the indigenous communities, hunters and traders should be harnessed for the success of this objective.Keywords: Bushmeat, mammals, rodents, sustainable, indigenou

Preparation and Characterization Of Oil-in-water Nano-emulsions Of Trifluoperazine For Parenteral Drug Delivery

Objectives: 1.) To develop and characterize an optimal formulation of oil-in-water nano-emulsions of trifluoperazine for parenteral delivery. 2.) To perform short term stability testing of the optimal formulation and monitor the potency using high performance chromatography (HPLC). Materials and Methods: Emulsions containing soybean oil, water, trifluoperazine hcl as an amphiphilic drug, phospholipon 90 and Tween 80 as surfactant blend were prepared using the Thin-layer hydration method. Z-average, polydispersity index, zeta potential of emulsions were determined. A fully randomized 2X2X2X2X2 statistical design was developed using JMP software. Optimal formulation was selected based on desirable properties of low z-average and polydispersity index, and high zeta potential. Stability of optimal formulation was determined using HPLC analysis and based on ICH specifications. Results: Z-average of optimal formulation was 72.9nm with zeta potential value of 25.59 mV and polydispersity index 0.2. After storage for 3 months, z-average values were below 200nm indicating optimal formulation was not physically degraded. Drug content analysis showed chemical degradation due to reduction of potency. Conclusions: Trifluoperazine nano-emulsions formulations had acceptable values of low z-average, low polydispersity index and high zeta potential and were physically stable but not chemically stable over 3 months

Hustlenomics: Success Through the Hustleconomy

The purpose of this study is to develop a guide to success for hustlers engaged in hustlenomics. This guide is based on the trials and impediments as well as the tactics and best practices effective hustlers deem as essential in leading them towards success within the hustleconomy. To accomplish this goal, a review of literature along with a qualitative phenomenological study was conducted. The qualitative phenomenology research focused on the population of influencer hustlers as the investigation\u27s subject. Interviews was used as the approach to collect data. Hence, 12 influencer hustlers that met the criteria of inclusion were interviewed utilizing 12 open-ended questions. At the conclusion of the study, essential knowledge and insights were garnered pertaining to the quandaries and impediments that hustlers face, as well as a knowledge of the ideas and activities that hustlers must understand and implement in order to prosper and thrive in the hustleconomy. The results of the phenomenological study were integrated with the knowledge gained from the literature review to engender the Hustlenomics Model for Success, a resource to support hustlers on their path to success

Habitat selection of four african treefrogs (Leptopelis boulengeri, Hyperolius fusciventris bourtoni, H. Guttulatus and Afrixalus dorsalis) in degraded environments of the Niger Delta, Nigeria

The habitat structures of four species of African treefrogs (Leptopelis boulengeri, Hyperolius fusciventris bourtoni, H. guttulatus and Afrixalus dorsalis) in two degraded environments (Kwale and Patani) in the Niger Delta were investigated. There were a total of 381 individuals collected of which H. f. bourtoni was the most abundant species (173 individuals) at all sites while the least was L. boulengeri (41 individuals). Relatively even distribution of the treefrog species were observed at both study sites, however only L. boulengeri showed a significant difference (P< 0.05, df=1, x2 = 5.488) among individuals at the two study sites. More female (195) individuals were recorded than males (186). Significantly more individuals of treefrog species were observed during the rainy season than the dry season except in H. guttulatus (P > 0.05, df =1, x2 = 27.520) which was not significant. L. boulengeri occurred mainly in high elevations on the leaves and branches of shrubs and trees and were mainly seen in elevations between 3.1-≥4m above the ground level. H. f. bourtoni were sighted mostly from the leaves of grasses between 0.3-0.6m. Majority of H. guttulatus occupied leaves of shrubs and trees between 0.7-1.6m and a large number of individuals were collected from the roots of Pistia stratiotes submerged under water during the dry season. A. dorsalis occupied the lowest altitude among the species studied as many individuals were found between 0.08-0.4m on the leaves of grasses above water. L. boulengeri had the highest mean SVL and weight of 5.02±0.71cm and 8.93±0.91g respectively while H. f. bourtoni had the smallest of 2.30±0.31cm and 1.11±0.14g respectively. Female specimens were generally larger than males. Degraded secondary habitats offer a variety of microhabitats which are effectively utilized by these treefrogs species thus reducing interspecific competition.Keywords: African treefrogs, habitat destruction, morphology, microhabitats, competitio

Edible Amphibian Species: Local Knowledge of their Consumption in Southwest Nigeria and their Nutritional Value

The knowledge of the consumption of edible amphibian species in southwest Nigeria was investigated based on interviews. There were a total of 900 respondents of which 92.8% were aware of edible frogs being consumed by humans. Six hundred and sixty (73.3%) respondents had seen various individuals eating frogs. Examining the respondents themselves, 387 (43.0%) has eaten frogs. The occupation with the highest consumption of amphibian species was the farmers (64.1%) followed by the secondary school teachers (57.0%) and the least being the housewives (27.3%). Ptychadena pumilio has the highest protein content (19.79%) followed by Xenopus muelleri (19.53%). Hoplobatrachus occipitalis has a protein content of 19.46% and fats and oils of 1.06%. Xenopus muelleri has the highest fat and oil percentage while Ptychadena pumilio has the lowest (0.97%). Glutamic acid followed by aspartic acid was the highest concentration of amino acid in all the species. The Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed that there was no significant difference in the  concentration of the amino acid among the three species of edible anurans at (P > 0.05). Frog meat serves as a good source of protein for thelocal inhabitants. But the unsustainable use of these edible frog species would have a detrimental effect on the ecosystem. Hence frog farming and conservation efforts must be encouraged

Assessment of Interpretive Facilities and the Delivery of Interpretive Services in Nigeria National Parks

Assessment of interpretive facilities and the delivery of interpretive services in Chad Basin National Park (CBNP), Kainji Lake National Park (KLNP), Okomu National Park (OKNP), and Yankari National Park (YNP) were conducted. The parks were selected to represent the major ecological zones where National Parks are located in Nigeria. There methods of data collection were utilized in this study. The first was the use of interview guide adapted from the Department of Natural Resources and Environment (1999) to obtain information from the management of the four national parks; the second was on-site assessment of interpretive facilities and services available in the parks. Finally, data were obtained through questionnaire from the visitors to the parks on the interpretive facilities and services provided to Data obtained were subjected to descriptive statistics. The results indicated the presence of interpretive brochures and leaflets, interpretive signs, park publications, museum/interpretive exhibits, interpretive talks, school group activities, children activities, guided tours, video, visitor centre and audio/video viewing at visitor centre in these parks. None of these Parks provided internet site, night walks, self-guided activities and trailside exhibits. The study also showed that between 2.7% and 6.3% of the total number of full-time staff in these parks were available for the delivery of interpretive services. Also, between N100,000 and N1,000,000 were budgeted annually for interpretive services out of between N5,000,000 and N100,000,000 annual operating budget for the parks.Key Words: Interpretive facilities, interpretive services, delivery, visitors, Nigeria National Park

Biodiversity Change: Preliminary Monitoring of Anura Species in Selected Vegetation Sites in Southwestern Nigeria

Four study sites with different vegetation structures in southwest Nigeria were selected and monitored for anuran species between 2007–2009 applying the transect sampling method. These study sites were located at Ijede (06º 34’ 072’’ N 003º 35’ 030’’ E), Ijebu Oru (06º 56’ 493’’N 003º 56’ 792’’E), Onidundun (07º 37’ 313’’ N 003º 55’ 258’’ E) and Ibapon Oyewole (08º 05’ 129’’ N 004º 11’ 132’’ E), all in southwest Nigeria. The study sites of Ijebu Oru (forests/abandoned farmlands) and Ibapon Oyewole (savanna) had a mean number of species and individuals of 21 and 14, and 236 ± 5 and 108 ± 7.9, respectively. However, at Ijede (swamps/forests), there was 18% reduction (6% in 2008; 12% in 2009) of the initial number of species recorded in 2007 due to shifting agricultural practices. Hylarana albolabris, Aubria subsigillata and Ptychadena aequiplicata were no longer accounted for in 2009 surveys. At Onidundun (derived savanna/forests), there was a 17% reduction of anuran species (Ptychadena mascareniensis, Hyperolius f. burtoni and Arthroleptis sp.) in 2008, but 12% of these species (Hyperolius f. burtoni and Ptychadena mascareniensis) were again seen in 2009 after substantial amount of vegetation growth had occurred. The mean number of species and individuals at the study sites of Ijede and Onidundun were 16.67 ± 1.5 and 16.67 ± 1.5; and 203.67 ± 6.7 and 169.67 ± 8.3, respectively. In general, fewer number of amphibian species were observed during the dry season at the four study sites. Habitat destruction and modification are key causes of habitat loss of anuran species observed in this study. Biomonitoring procedures should be applied regularly to detect changes (increase/decrease) in the diversity and abundance of anuran species within a specified study area of interest over time

Offshore Banking and the Financial Performance: A Study of Selected Nigerian Banks with Offshore Branches

Some Nigerian banks have found it worthwhile to extend their branch expansions to some offshore locations. However, this move also made the Central Bank of Nigeria to issue a circular in 2008 to all Banks to ensure the viability of the offshore branches while protecting the shareholders’ funds and interests. The study employed ex post facto research design, descriptive and empirical analysis methods. Analyses were based on published data on relevant performance index of the banks and operating indices of their offshore branches. Three banks were selected for the study from the seven banks that operated offshore branches. Data were extracted from the annual reports for 2009-2012 period. Empirical analysis was anchored on regression model. Profit before tax was treated as the performance index and, thus, entered the model as the explained variable while operating income, deposits, loans and advances, other assets and profit before tax of the offshore branches entered as the explanatory variables. The intercept of the model and the coefficients of the operating indices were estimated via the Least Squares (LS) techniques. The results revealed that banks recorded varying values in offshore operating indicators. Ghana proved to be a more lucrative location for banking business. Operating incomes and deposits did not significantly affect the profit before tax of the banks as evidenced by the p-values of the t-statistic of their coefficients (p-value = 0.1309 > 0.05 and p-value = 0.3311 > 0.05) respectively, and that loans and advances exerted negative but insignificant effect as shown by the p-value of 0.8594 which was less that the relevant level of 0.05. The aggregate effect of the operating indices was found to be significant. The operating indicators exhibited high strength (99%) in explaining variations in performance of the parent banks as evidenced by the very high R-Squared 0.99. Consequently, the study concluded that offshore banking possesses great potentials to determine and explain banks’ performance. Recommendations, amongst others, were that Nigerian Banks currently operating offshore branches should deepen their banking business for optimal performance. The Central Bank of Nigeria should enhance its supervisory capacity with additional monitoring strategies. Key Words: Offshore Branches, Operating Indices, Performance Index, Financial Performanc