RAINFOREST VEGETATION TYPE: A LEVERAGE TO PANGOLIN HABITAT ENHANCEMENT IN DENG-DENG NATIONAL PARK, EASTERN REGION, CAMEROON

Rainforest vegetation type plays a critical role in providing suitable habitat and resources for pangolins, and understanding the relationship between rainforest vegetation and pangolin ecology is essential for conservation efforts. This study is aimed on assessing the influence of rainforest vegetation type on the enhancement of pangolin habitat within deng-deng national park. However, the research methodology involved conducting field surveys to collect data on pangolin distribution across different forest vegetation within the park. Also, habitat assessment was carried out to evaluate the structural characteristics, vegetation composition, and microhabitats available in each forest vegetation type. Data analysis techniques, included chi-square (X2) and correlation statistical models were employed to identify association between forest vegetation type and pangolin ecology. The forest vegetation type demonstrated a significant association on wildlife species X2=10.002 df=12 P<0.05, presence of human activity X2=18.806 df=9 P=0.027, and forest vegetation canopy X2=6.183 df=6 P<0.05 respectively. Forest vegetation types determine the composition and diversity of wildlife communities, including species that may interact with pangolins. The study also recorded liana-rich vegetation 38% and dense forest vegetation 32% as highest, while marshy forest 17% and open forest vegetation 13% as least respectively. The rainforest vegetation undergrowth recorded a significant correlation association on the vegetation type r=0.398 P=0.000. More so, the rainforest vegetation visibility showed a significant association on forest type X2=6.552 df=11 P<0.05. Additionally, forest vegetation landscape and forest type showed a significant association r=0.240 P=0.038. The findings of this study contributes to our understanding of the importance of rainforest vegetation in shaping the sustainability of pangolin populations. Different forest vegetation types offer varying levels of resources, microhabitats, and ecological interactions that influence pangolin behavior and population dynamics. The implications of this study are crucial for pangolin conservation and management strategies. By identifying the forest vegetation types that support thriving pangolin populations, conservation efforts would focus on protecting and restoring these habitats. Finally, by integrating this knowledge into conservation plans and forest management practices, we would effectively safeguard pangolin populations and contribute to the overall biodiversity conservation in the national park.