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|protected_ref = )<ref>Eric Dinerstein, David Olson, et al. (2017). An Ecoregion-Based Approach to Protecting Half the Terrestrial Realm, BioScience, Volume 67, Issue 6, June 2017, Pages 534–545; Supplemental material 2 table S1b. [https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/bix014]</ref>
|protected_ref = )<ref name="doi.org">Eric Dinerstein, David Olson, et al. (2017). An Ecoregion-Based Approach to Protecting Half the Terrestrial Realm, BioScience, Volume 67, Issue 6, June 2017, Pages 534–545; Supplemental material 2 table S1b. [https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/bix014]</ref>
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The '''Guinean forest-savanna ''', also known as the Guinean forest-savanna transition, is a distinctive ecological region located in West Africa.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Fairhead |first1=James |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/cbo9781139164023 |title=Misreading the African Landscape |last2=Leach |first2=Melissa |date=1996-10-17 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |doi=10.1017/cbo9781139164023 |isbn=978-0-521-56353-6}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1079/9780851997346.0000 |title=Biodiversity of West African forests: an ecological atlas of woody plant species |date=January 2004 |publisher=CABI Publishing |isbn=978-0-85199-734-6 |editor-last=Poorter |editor-first=L. |location=UK |doi=10.1079/9780851997346.0000 |editor-last2=Bongers |editor-first2=F. |editor-last3=Kouamé |editor-first3=F. N'. |editor-last4=Hawthorne |editor-first4=W. D.}}</ref> It stretches across several countries including [[Guinea]], [[Sierra Leone]], [[Liberia]], [[Ivory Coast]], [[Ghana]], [[Togo]], [[Benin]], [[Nigeria]], and [[Cameroon]]. This region is characterized by a unique blend of forested areas and savannas, creating a diverse and dynamic landscape.
The '''Guinean forest–savanna mosaic''' is an [[ecoregion]] of [[West Africa]], a band of interlaced [[forest]], [[savanna]], and [[grassland]] running east to west and dividing the [[tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests|tropical moist forests]] near the coast from the [[West Sudanian savanna]] of the interior.

It is an [[ecoregion]] of [[West Africa]], a band of interlaced [[forest]], [[savanna]], and [[grassland]] running east to west and dividing the [[tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests|tropical moist forests]] near the coast from the [[West Sudanian savanna]] of the interior.


==Setting==
==Setting==
The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic covers an area of {{convert|673,600|km2|sqmi|sp=us}}, extending from western [[Senegal]] to eastern [[Nigeria]], and including portions of [[Gambia]], [[Guinea Bissau]], [[Guinea]], [[Sierra Leone]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Ghana]], [[Togo]], [[Benin]] and [[Cameroon]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Guinean Forest-Savanna |url=https://www.oneearth.org/ecoregions/guinean-forest-savanna/ |access-date=2023-03-24 |website=One Earth |language=en}}</ref> The [[Cameroon Highlands]] of eastern Nigeria and [[Cameroon]] separate the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic from the [[Northern Congolian forest–savanna mosaic]], which lies to the east. The [[Dahomey Gap]] is a region of Togo and Benin where the forest-savanna mosaic extends to the coast, and separates the [[Upper Guinean forests]] of Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana from the [[Lower Guinean forests]] of Nigeria and Cameroon.
The Guinean forest–savanna mosaic covers an area of {{convert|673,600|km2|sqmi|sp=us}}, extending from western [[Senegal]] to eastern [[Nigeria]], and including portions of [[Gambia]], [[Guinea Bissau]], [[Guinea]], [[Sierra Leone]], [[Côte d'Ivoire]], [[Ghana]], [[Togo]], [[Benin]] and [[Cameroon]].<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |title=Guinean Forest-Savanna |url=https://www.oneearth.org/ecoregions/guinean-forest-savanna/ |access-date=2023-03-24 |website=One Earth |language=en}}</ref> The [[Cameroon Highlands]] of eastern Nigeria and [[Cameroon]] separate the Guinean forest–savanna mosaic from the [[Northern Congolian forest–savanna mosaic]], which lies to the east.<ref>Fjeldsaå, J., & Lovett, J. C. (1997). Geographical patterns of old and young species in African forest biota: the significance of specific montane areas as evolutionary centres. ''Biodiversity & Conservation'', ''6'', 325-346.</ref> The [[Dahomey Gap]] is a region of Togo and Benin where the forest-savanna mosaic extends to the coast, and separates the [[Upper Guinean forests]] of Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana from the [[Lower Guinean forests]] of Nigeria and Cameroon.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Demenou |first1=Boris B. |last2=Piñeiro |first2=Rosalía |last3=Hardy |first3=Olivier J. |date=May 2016 |title=Origin and history of the Dahomey Gap separating West and Central African rain forests: insights from the phylogeography of the legume tree Distemonanthus benthamianus |url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jbi.12688 |journal=Journal of Biogeography |language=en |volume=43 |issue=5 |pages=1020–1031 |doi=10.1111/jbi.12688|s2cid=88091097 }}</ref>

== Climate ==
The [[climate]] in this region varies depending on the specific location, but it generally experiences a [[tropical climate]] with distinct wet and dry seasons.<ref>Goetze, D., Hörsch, B., & Porembski, S. (2006). Dynamics of forest–savanna mosaics in north‐eastern Ivory Coast from 1954 to 2002. ''Journal of biogeography'', ''33''(4), 653-664.</ref> The [[wet season]] brings heavy rainfall, while the [[dry season]] is characterized by lower precipitation and drier conditions. This ecoregion is situated in the humid [[Tropical savanna climate|tropical savanna]] zone, where the average yearly high temperatures range from 30 to 33°C and the lows range from 14 to 21°C. The annual rainfall typically falls between 1,600 and 2,000 mm, although there are areas in the [[Dahomey Gap]] that receive 1,000 mm or less annually.<ref name=":0" /><ref>{{Cite web |title=World Species : Climate Data for Latitude 8.75 Longitude -1.25 |url=https://worldspecies.org/geographics/climate/358/198 |access-date=2023-09-09 |website=worldspecies.org}}</ref>

The Guinean savanna mosaic represents a critical [[Ecology|ecological]] transition zone between the dense, [[evergreen]] [[Rainforest|rainforests]] to the south and the more open, tree-dotted [[Savanna|savannas]] to the north. This transition creates a unique mix of plant and animal species adapted to varying [[Ecology|ecological]] conditions.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Murphy |first1=Brett P. |last2=Bowman |first2=David M.J.S. |date=July 2012 |title=What controls the distribution of tropical forest and savanna?: Tropical forest and savanna distribution |url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1461-0248.2012.01771.x |journal=Ecology Letters |language=en |volume=15 |issue=7 |pages=748–758 |doi=10.1111/j.1461-0248.2012.01771.x|pmid=22452780 |doi-access=free }}</ref> Like many ecosystems worldwide, the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is susceptible to the impacts of [[climate change]]. Altered rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, and more frequent [[extreme weather]] events have affected the health and composition of this [[biome]].<ref>{{Cite report |url=https://cp.copernicus.org/preprints/5/341/2009/cpd-5-341-2009.pdf |title=Western equatorial African forest-savanna mosaics: a legacy of late Holocene climatic change? |last1=Ngomanda |first1=A. |last2=Chepstow-Lusty |first2=A. |date=2009-02-09 |doi=10.5194/cpd-5-341-2009 |last3=Makaya |first3=M. |last4=Favier |first4=C. |last5=Schevin |first5=P. |last6=Maley |first6=J. |last7=Fontugne |first7=M. |last8=Oslisly |first8=R. |last9=Jolly |first9=D. |doi-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Bouvet |first1=Alexandre |last2=Mermoz |first2=Stéphane |last3=Le Toan |first3=Thuy |last4=Villard |first4=Ludovic |last5=Mathieu |first5=Renaud |last6=Naidoo |first6=Laven |last7=Asner |first7=Gregory P. |date=2018-03-01 |title=An above-ground biomass map of African savannahs and woodlands at 25m resolution derived from ALOS PALSAR |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0034425717306053 |journal=Remote Sensing of Environment |volume=206 |pages=156–173 |doi=10.1016/j.rse.2017.12.030 |bibcode=2018RSEnv.206..156B |issn=0034-4257|doi-access=free }}</ref>

== Biodiversity ==
The Guinean forest–savanna mosaic is known for its high biological diversity.<ref>Christiana Ndidi, E., & Adeniyi Suleiman, G. (2009). Species diversity patterns along the forest savanna boundary in Nigeria. ''Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal'', ''20''(1), 64-72.</ref> It is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including many [[endemic species]] that are found nowhere else in the world. Some iconic species found here include chimpanzees, [[Pygmy hippopotamus|pygmy hippos]], [[African forest elephant|forest elephants]], and various species of [[primate]]s and birds. They also include several species of primates, reptiles, amphibians, and plants that have evolved in isolation within this region.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Guinean Forest-Savanna |url=https://www.oneearth.org/ecoregions/guinean-forest-savanna/ |access-date=2023-09-06 |website=One Earth |language=en}}</ref>

== Vegetation ==

* [[Forest]]: The forested areas in this mosaic are primarily composed of tropical rainforests, characterized by high rainfall, high humidity, and diverse flora and fauna.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Fairhead |first1=James |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/cbo9781139164023 |title=Misreading the African Landscape |last2=Leach |first2=Melissa |date=1996-10-17 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |doi=10.1017/cbo9781139164023 |isbn=978-0-521-56353-6}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Liu |first1=Zhihua |last2=Wimberly |first2=Michael |last3=Dwomoh |first3=Francis |date=2016-12-24 |title=Vegetation Dynamics in the Upper Guinean Forest Region of West Africa from 2001 to 2015 |journal=Remote Sensing |volume=9 |issue=1 |pages=5 |doi=10.3390/rs9010005 |issn=2072-4292 |doi-access=free }}</ref> These forests are home to a wide variety of plant species, including towering hardwood trees, lianas, epiphytes, and a rich understory of [[Shrub|shrubs]] and herbs.
* [[Savanna]]: The savanna component consists of grasslands interspersed with scattered trees, which are adapted to periodic fires.<ref>{{Citation |last=Furley |first=Peter A. |title=2. Shaping the savannas |date=2016-06-23 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/actrade/9780198717225.003.0002 |work=Savannas: A Very Short Introduction |pages=16–46 |access-date=2023-10-12 |publisher=Oxford University Press|doi=10.1093/actrade/9780198717225.003.0002 |isbn=978-0-19-871722-5 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Owen-Smith |first=Norman |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/9781108961646 |title=Only in Africa |date=2021-09-09 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |doi=10.1017/9781108961646 |isbn=978-1-108-96164-6}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Croker |first1=Abigail Rose |last2=Woods |first2=Jeremy |last3=Kountouris |first3=Yiannis |date=2023-07-27 |title=Changing fire regimes in East and Southern Africa's savanna-protected areas: opportunities and challenges for indigenous-led savanna burning emissions abatement schemes |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-2684809/v2 |access-date=2023-10-12 |doi=10.21203/rs.3.rs-2684809/v2 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Sanchez |first=Pedro A. |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/9781316809785 |title=Properties and Management of Soils in the Tropics |date=2019-01-09 |publisher=Cambridge University Press |doi=10.1017/9781316809785 |isbn=978-1-316-80978-5}}</ref> The savanna [[ecosystem]] supports a different set of plant species, including various grasses, shrubs, and acacia trees.


==Flora==
==Flora==
[[File:Woodland in Guinea Savanna.JPG|alt=Woodland in Guinea Savanna|thumb|'''Woodland in Guinea Savanna''']]
This region is mainly grassland crossed with trees growing alongside streams and on hillsides, with the constantly occurring fires keeping back the growth of trees in open country. ''[[Lophira lanceolata]]'' is a tree that is more resistant to fire than many others.
This [[biome]] is characterized by a mix of [[forest]]ed areas and open savannas.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Favier |first1=Charly |last2=Chave |first2=Jérôme |last3=Fabing |first3=Aline |last4=Schwartz |first4=Dominique |last5=Dubois |first5=Marc A. |date=2004-01-01 |title=Modelling forest–savanna mosaic dynamics in man-influenced environments: effects of fire, climate and soil heterogeneity |url=https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304380003003016 |journal=Ecological Modelling |volume=171 |issue=1 |pages=85–102 |doi=10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2003.07.003 |issn=0304-3800}}</ref> It is often referred to as a [[Mosaic (genetics)|mosaic]] because it consists of a patchwork of different vegetation types.<ref>Whittaker, R. H., & Levin, S. (1977). The role of mosaic phenomena in natural communities. ''Theoretical population biology'', ''12''(2), 117-139.</ref> In the forested areas, you can find a mix of [[evergreen]] and [[deciduous]] trees, while the savanna regions feature grasslands and scattered trees.<ref>Liu, Z., Wimberly, M. C., & Dwomoh, F. K. (2016). Vegetation dynamics in the upper guinean forest region of West Africa from 2001 to 2015. ''Remote Sensing'', ''9''(1), 5.</ref>
In terms of plant life, it contains a mix of tree species such as [[mahogany]], [[iroko]], and various species of [[acacia]], alongside [[Poaceae|grasses]] and [[Shrub|shrubs]] common to [[Savanna|savannas]]. The region is mainly [[grassland]] crossed with trees growing alongside streams and on hillsides, with the constantly occurring fires keeping back the growth of trees in open country.<ref name=":0" /> ''[[Lophira lanceolata]]'' is one of the tree species found that is more resistant to fire than many others.<ref>Fairhead, J., & Leach, M. (1996). ''Misreading the African landscape: society and ecology in a forest-savanna mosaic'' (No. 90). Cambridge University Press.</ref>


==Fauna==
==Fauna==
The mixture of forest and grassland provide habitat for a range of species from large mammals such as [[African leopard]], [[forest elephant]]s, [[hippopotamus]] and [[antelope]]s such as the [[red-flanked duiker]] to the common [[tortoise]] as well as more localised species including [[patas monkey]]s and Ghana worm lizards (''[[Amphisbaenia]]'').


The mixture of forest and grassland provide habitat for a range of species from large mammals<ref>Andrews, P. (2006). Taphonomic effects of faunal impoverishment and faunal mixing. ''Palaeogeography, Palaeoclimatology, Palaeoecology'', ''241''(3-4), 572-589.</ref> such as [[African leopard]], [[forest elephant]]s, [[hippopotamus]] and [[antelope]]s such as the [[red-flanked duiker]] to the common [[tortoise]] as well as more localised species including [[patas monkey]]s and Ghana worm lizards (''[[Amphisbaenia]]'').<ref>Brockerhoff, E. G., Barbaro, L., Castagneyrol, B., Forrester, D. I., Gardiner, B., González-Olabarria, J. R., ... & Jactel, H. (2017). Forest biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and the provision of ecosystem services. ''Biodiversity and Conservation'', ''26'', 3005-3035.</ref> The [[wetland]]s in the region are rich in birdlife, including [[emerald starling|iris glossy starling]] and [[black crowned crane]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Masseloux |first1=Juliana |last2=Le |first2=Quy Tan |last3=Burr |first3=Jessica |last4=Gerber |first4=Brian D. |date=March 2022 |title=Forest structure and seasonally inundated grassland shape tropical mammal communities under moderate disturbance |url=https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ecs2.3999 |journal=Ecosphere |language=en |volume=13 |issue=3 |doi=10.1002/ecs2.3999 |s2cid=247649193 |issn=2150-8925}}</ref>
The wetlands in the region are rich in birdlife, including [[emerald starling|iris glossy starling]] and [[black crowned crane]].

* [[Mammal|Mammals]]: The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is home to a wide variety of mammalian species.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Pennec |first1=Flora |last2=Gérard |first2=Caroline |last3=Meterreau |first3=Laura |last4=Monghiemo |first4=Claude |last5=Ngawolo |first5=Jean-Christophe Bokika |last6=Laurent |first6=Romain |last7=Narat |first7=Victor |date=2020-10-30 |title=Spatiotemporal Variation in Bonobo (Pan paniscus) Habitat Use in a Forest–Savanna Mosaic |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10764-020-00180-5 |journal=International Journal of Primatology |volume=41 |issue=6 |pages=775–799 |doi=10.1007/s10764-020-00180-5 |issn=0164-0291}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Humle |first1=Tatyana |last2=Colin |first2=Christelle |last3=Laurans |first3=Matthieu |last4=Raballand |first4=Estelle |date=2010-12-23 |title=Group Release of Sanctuary Chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in the Haut Niger National Park, Guinea, West Africa: Ranging Patterns and Lessons So Far |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10764-010-9482-7 |journal=International Journal of Primatology |volume=32 |issue=2 |pages=456–473 |doi=10.1007/s10764-010-9482-7 |issn=0164-0291}}</ref> This includes iconic species such as African elephants, western chimpanzees, and western lowland gorillas. Other notable mammals include leopards, various species of antelope (such as duikers and bushbucks), and a diverse range of primates (like guenons, colobus monkeys, and baboons).
* [[Bird|Birds]]: The avifauna of this region is highly diverse, with hundreds of species recorded.<ref>{{Citation |last1=del Hoyo |first1=Josep |title=Odedi (Horornis haddeni) |date=2020-03-04 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.2173/bow.odedi1.01 |work=Birds of the World |access-date=2023-10-12 |publisher=Cornell Lab of Ornithology |last2=Elliott |first2=Andrew |last3=Christie |first3=David|editor-first1=Josep |editor-first2=Andrew |editor-first3=Jordi |editor-first4=David |editor-first5=Eduardo |editor-last1=Del Hoyo |editor-last2=Elliott |editor-last3=Sargatal |editor-last4=Christie |editor-last5=De Juana |doi=10.2173/bow.odedi1.01 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Woinarski |first1=JCZ |last2=Tidemann |first2=SC |date=1991 |title=The Bird Fauna of a Deciduous Woodland in the Wet-Dry Tropics of Northern Australia. |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1071/wr9910479 |journal=Wildlife Research |volume=18 |issue=4 |pages=479 |doi=10.1071/wr9910479 |issn=1035-3712}}</ref> This includes a mix of forest-dwelling birds like turacos, hornbills, and various species of parrots, as well as savanna-adapted species like raptors, bustards, and various types of weavers.
* [[Reptile|Reptiles]] and [[Amphibian|Amphibians]]: The mosaic is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including numerous snake species, chameleons, crocodiles, and an array of frogs and toads.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Routledge-Cavendish |date=2002-02-14 |title=Cavendish: Jurisprudence Lawcards |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.4324/9781843144373 |doi=10.4324/9781843144373|isbn=9781135592042 }}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last=Bennett |first=Alice |title=Remaindered Books: Glen Duncan's Twenty-First Century Novels |date=2013 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1057/9781137035189_5 |work=Twenty-First Century Fiction |pages=66–80 |access-date=2023-10-12 |place=London |publisher=Palgrave Macmillan UK |doi=10.1057/9781137035189_5 |isbn=978-1-349-44217-1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Arnold |first=Chloe |date=2014-01-02 |title=Review of Bradt travel guides to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03068374.2014.874710 |journal=Asian Affairs |volume=45 |issue=1 |pages=151–153 |doi=10.1080/03068374.2014.874710 |issn=0306-8374}}</ref>
* [[Invertebrate|Invertebrates]]: The biodiversity of invertebrates, including insects and arachnids, is extremely high, with countless species contributing to the overall ecological balance.<ref>{{Cite book |last1=Nix |first1=Henry |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.26530/oapen_459382 |title=The Nature of Northern Australia: its natural values, ecological processes and future prospects |last2=Mackey |first2=Brendan |last3=Traill |first3=Barry |last4=Woinarski |first4=John |date=2007 |publisher=ANU Press |doi=10.26530/oapen_459382 |isbn=978-1-921313-31-8}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Ingram |first=Daniel J. |date=2019-07-09 |title=Julie J. Lesnik: Edible Insects and Human Evolution |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10745-019-00089-5 |journal=Human Ecology |volume=47 |issue=4 |pages=637–638 |doi=10.1007/s10745-019-00089-5 |issn=0300-7839}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Kruk |first1=Hanna |last2=Krzyżanowski |first2=Julian |last3=Kwasek |first3=Mariola |last4=Obiedzińska |first4=Agnieszka |date=2017 |title=From the Research on Socially-Sustainable Agriculture (44). Food Security and Agro-Biodiversity |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3604993 |journal=SSRN Electronic Journal |doi=10.2139/ssrn.3604993 |issn=1556-5068}}</ref>


==Human settlement==
==Human settlement==
The ecoregion covers large areas of many West African nations including:
The ecoregion covers large areas of many West African nations including:
* Senegal - much of the southern [[Casamance]] arm of the country including the city of [[Ziguinchor]].
* [[Senegal]] - much of the southern [[Casamance]] arm of the country including the city of [[Ziguinchor]].
* All of inland Guinea-Bissau
* All of inland [[Guinea-Bissau]]
* The Gambia - in particular, south of the River Gambia
* [[The Gambia]] - in particular, south of the [[Gambia River|River Gambia]]
* Guinea - the band of lowland areas parallel to the coast and then running south-east of the central mountains, including the towns of [[Fria]], [[Kindia]] and [[Kissidougou]].
* [[Guinea]] - the band of lowland areas parallel to the coast and then running south-east of the central mountains, including the towns of [[Fria]], [[Kindia]] and [[Kissidougou]].
* Northern Sierra Leone including the towns of [[Makeni]] and [[Kabala, Sierra Leone|Kabala]].
* Northern [[Sierra Leone]] including the towns of [[Makeni]] and [[Kabala, Sierra Leone|Kabala]].
* Côte d'Ivoire - a swathe across the middle east from [[Touba, Côte d'Ivoire|Touba]] through the country's second-largest city [[Bouaké]].
* [[Ivory Coast|Côte d'Ivoire]] - a swathe across the middle east from [[Touba, Côte d'Ivoire|Touba]] through the country's second-largest city [[Bouaké]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Goetze |first1=Dethardt |last2=Horsch |first2=Bianca |last3=Porembski |first3=Stefan |date=April 2006 |title=Dynamics of forest-savanna mosaics in north-eastern Ivory Coast from 1954 to 2002 |url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2699.2005.01312.x |journal=Journal of Biogeography |language=en |volume=33 |issue=4 |pages=653–664 |doi=10.1111/j.1365-2699.2005.01312.x |s2cid=84365358 |issn=0305-0270}}</ref>
* A wide strip across Ghana including the country east of [[Lake Volta]], where the main town is [[Ho, Ghana|Ho]].
* A wide strip across [[Ghana]] including the country east of [[Lake Volta]], where the main town is [[Ho, Ghana|Ho]].
* Togo - the southern plateau.
* [[Togo]] - the southern plateau.
* Benin - the southern areas including the city of [[Bohicon]].
* [[Benin]] - the southern areas including the city of [[Bohicon]].
* Nigeria - a large area including the cities of [[Ibadan]], which means ''where the forest meets the savanna'', the country's capital [[Abuja]], [[Lokoja]] where the [[River Niger]] and [[River Benue]] meet, [[Enugu]], and [[Makurdi]].
* [[Nigeria]] - a large area including the cities of [[Ibadan]], which means ''where the forest meets the savanna'', the country's capital [[Abuja]], [[Lokoja]] where the [[River Niger]] and [[River Benue]] meet, [[Enugu]], and [[Makurdi]].<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Carr |first1=Jamie |last2=Adewale Adeleke |last3=Angu |first3=Kenneth Angu |last4=Belle |first4=Elise |last5=Burgess |first5=Neil |last6=Savrina Carrizo |last7=Choimes |first7=Argyris |last8=Nonie Coulthard |last9=Darwall |first9=William |last10=Foden |first10=Wendy |last11=Jean-Marc Garreau |last12=Wenceslas Gatarabirwa |last13=Hicks |first13=Charlotte |last14=Kapijimpanga |first14=Daniel Ramlose |last15=King |first15=Emily |date=2015 |title=Ecosystem Profile Guinean Forests of West Africa Biodiversity Hotspot |url=http://rgdoi.net/10.13140/RG.2.1.1724.8889 |doi=10.13140/RG.2.1.1724.8889}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-08-01 |title=Ecological Regions Of Nigeria |url=https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/ecological-regions-of-nigeria.html |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=WorldAtlas |language=en-US}}</ref>

== Threats and Conservation ==
Like many [[Tropics|tropical]] ecosystems, this mosaic is under threat from various human activities.<ref>Atsri, H. K., Konko, Y., Cuni-Sanchez, A., Abotsi, K. E., & Kokou, K. (2018). Changes in the West African forest-savanna mosaic, insights from central Togo. ''PloS one'', ''13''(10), e0203999.</ref> Deforestation due to [[logging]], [[agriculture]] expansion, and mining operations pose significant challenges to its conservation. Additionally, infrastructure development and road construction can fragment habitats, making it difficult for [[wildlife]] to move between different areas.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Guinean Forests of West Africa - Threats {{!}} CEPF |url=https://www.cepf.net/our-work/biodiversity-hotspots/guinean-forests-west-africa/threats |access-date=2023-09-19 |website=www.cepf.net |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Fotang |first1=Chefor |last2=Bröring |first2=Udo |last3=Roos |first3=Christian |last4=Enoguanbhor |first4=Evidence Chinedu |last5=Abwe |first5=Ekwoge E. |last6=Dutton |first6=Paul |last7=Schierack |first7=Peter |last8=Angwafo |first8=Tsi Evaristus |last9=Birkhofer |first9=Klaus |date=2021-02-01 |title=Human Activity and Forest Degradation Threaten Populations of the Nigeria–Cameroon Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti) in Western Cameroon |url=https://doi.org/10.1007/s10764-020-00191-2 |journal=International Journal of Primatology |language=en |volume=42 |issue=1 |pages=105–129 |doi=10.1007/s10764-020-00191-2 |s2cid=254543800 |issn=1573-8604|doi-access=free }}</ref>

* Deforestation and Habitat Loss: One of the most significant threats to the biodiversity of the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is deforestation.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Usman |first1=Ojonugwa |last2=Alola |first2=Andrew Adewale |last3=Usman |first3=Monday |last4=Uzuner |first4=Gizem |date=2023-02-16 |title=Asymmetric effect of environmental cost of forest rents in the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic: The Nigerian experience |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11356-023-25653-x |journal=Environmental Science and Pollution Research |volume=30 |issue=17 |pages=50549–50566 |doi=10.1007/s11356-023-25653-x |issn=1614-7499|hdl=11250/3119377 |hdl-access=free }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1079/9780851997346.0000 |title=Biodiversity of West African forests: an ecological atlas of woody plant species |date=January 2004 |publisher=CABI Publishing |isbn=978-0-85199-734-6 |editor-last=Poorter |editor-first=L. |location=UK |doi=10.1079/9780851997346.0000 |editor-last2=Bongers |editor-first2=F. |editor-last3=Kouamé |editor-first3=F. N'. |editor-last4=Hawthorne |editor-first4=W. D.}}</ref> This occurs due to agriculture expansion, logging, and infrastructure development.
* Hunting and Poaching: Unsustainable hunting and poaching for bushmeat and the pet trade can put immense pressure on the local wildlife populations.<ref>{{Citation |title=Cameroon: Bushmeat and Wildlife Trade |date=2013-11-05 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.4324/9781315071688-14 |work=The Root Causes of Biodiversity Loss |pages=142–168 |access-date=2023-10-12 |publisher=Routledge |doi=10.4324/9781315071688-14 |isbn=978-1-315-07168-8}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last=Eniang |first=Edem A. |title=Effects of Habitat Fragmentation on the Cross River Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli): Recommendations for Conservation |date=2003 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4757-3770-7_22 |work=Primates in Fragments |pages=343–363 |access-date=2023-10-12 |place=Boston, MA |publisher=Springer US |doi=10.1007/978-1-4757-3770-7_22 |isbn=978-1-4757-3772-1}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last=Byron |first=Neil |title=28. The Economics of Sustainable Forest Management and Wildlife Conservation in Tropical Forests |date=2001-12-31 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.7312/fimb11454-035 |work=The Cutting Edge |pages=635–648 |access-date=2023-10-12 |publisher=Columbia University Press|doi=10.7312/fimb11454-035 |isbn=9780231114554 }}</ref>
* Climate Change: Changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and other climatic factors can disrupt the delicate ecological balance of the region.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Moseley |first1=William G. |last2=Baker |first2=Kathleen M. |date=December 2001 |title=Indigenous Land Management in West Africa: An Environmental Balancing Act |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.2307/525613 |journal=African Studies Review |volume=44 |issue=3 |pages=110 |doi=10.2307/525613 |jstor=525613 |issn=0002-0206}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Şekercioğlu |first1=Çağan H. |last2=Primack |first2=Richard B. |last3=Wormworth |first3=Janice |date=April 2012 |title=The effects of climate change on tropical birds |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2011.10.019 |journal=Biological Conservation |volume=148 |issue=1 |pages=1–18 |doi=10.1016/j.biocon.2011.10.019 |issn=0006-3207}}</ref>
* Conservation Efforts: Several conservation organizations and government agencies are working to protect and restore the biodiversity of this mosaic.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=GEISLER |first=C |date=July 2004 |title=Ecoagriculture: strategies to feed the world and save wild biodiversityJeffrey A. McNeely, Sara J. Scherr; Island Press, Washington, DC, 2003, paperback, ISBN 1-55963-645-9, US price $27.50 |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/s0743-0167(03)00087-1 |journal=Journal of Rural Studies |volume=20 |issue=3 |pages=383 |doi=10.1016/s0743-0167(03)00087-1 |issn=0743-0167}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |last=Saha |first=Subhrajit K. |date=2006-08-18 |title=G. Schroth, G. A. B. da Fonseca, C. A. Harvey, C. Gascon, H. L. Vasconcelos and A. N. Izac (eds), Agroforestry and Biodiversity Conservation in Tropical Landscapes |url=http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s10457-006-9011-z |journal=Agroforestry Systems |volume=68 |issue=3 |pages=247–249 |doi=10.1007/s10457-006-9011-z |issn=0167-4366}}</ref> This includes the establishment of protected areas, community-based conservation initiatives, and sustainable land-use planning.

== Conservation Initiatives ==
[[Conservation biology|Conservation]] organizations and governments in the region have recognized the importance of preserving the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Reducing Deforestation, Forest Degradation, And Biodiversity Loss |url=https://www.wabicc.org/ |access-date=2023-09-19 |website=www.wabicc.org |language=en-US}}</ref> Efforts have been made to establish [[Protected area|protected areas]] and [[National park|national parks]], such as [[Taï National Park]] in [[Ivory Coast]] and [[Gola Rainforest National Park]] in [[Sierra Leone]] and [[Liberia]].<ref>Chatelain, C., Dao, H., Gautier, L., & Spichiger, R. (2004). Forest cover changes in Côte d'Ivoire and Upper Guinea. In ''Biodiversity of West African forests: an ecological atlas of woody plant species'' (pp. 15-32). Wallingford UK: CABI Publishing.</ref><ref>Curry-Lindahl, K. (1974). Conservation problems and progress in equatorial African countries. ''Environmental Conservation'', ''1''(2), 111-122.</ref>


==Protected areas==
==Protected areas==
The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is a [[Biology|biologically]] diverse and [[Ecology|ecologically]] significant region in West Africa.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Atsri |first1=Honam Komina |last2=Konko |first2=Yawo |last3=Cuni-Sanchez |first3=Aida |last4=Abotsi |first4=Komla Elikplim |last5=Kokou |first5=Kouami |date=2018-10-05 |title=Changes in the West African forest-savanna mosaic, insights from central Togo |journal=PLOS ONE |language=en |volume=13 |issue=10 |pages=e0203999 |doi=10.1371/journal.pone.0203999 |issn=1932-6203 |pmc=6173393 |pmid=30289922 |bibcode=2018PLoSO..1303999A |doi-access=free }}</ref> Its unique blend of forest and [[savanna]] habitats, along with its [[Endemism|endemic species]], make it an area of global importance for conservation efforts.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Singh |first1=Minerva |last2=Massimino |first2=Lorena M. |last3=Collins |first3=Catherine Matilda |date=May 2022 |title=Evaluation of Protected Areas in Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana, West Africa, Using a Remote Sensing-Based Approach |journal=Land |language=en |volume=11 |issue=5 |pages=720 |doi=10.3390/land11050720 |issn=2073-445X |doi-access=free |hdl=10044/1/97296 |hdl-access=free }}</ref><ref>Poorter, L. (Ed.). (2004). ''Biodiversity of West African forests: an ecological atlas of woody plant species''. CABI.</ref> A 2017 assessment found that 107,116&nbsp;km<sup>2</sup>, or 16%, of the ecoregion is in [[Protected area|protected areas]].<ref name="doi.org">Eric Dinerstein, David Olson, et al. (2017). An Ecoregion-Based Approach to Protecting Half the Terrestrial Realm, BioScience, Volume 67, Issue 6, June 2017, Pages 534–545; Supplemental material 2 table S1b. [https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/bix014]</ref> Protected areas include [[Upper Niger National Park]] in Guinea,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ngounou |first=Boris |date=2023-01-09 |title=GUINEA: Launch of a conservation project in the Upper-Niger National Park |url=https://www.afrik21.africa/en/guinea-launch-of-a-conservation-project-in-the-upper-niger-national-park/ |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=Afrik 21 |language=en-US}}</ref> Dulombi-Boe National Park in Guinea-Bissau,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Species |first=IUCN Save Our |date=2018-04-26 |title=New National Parks for Guinea Bissau - IUCN SOS |url=https://iucnsos.org/new-national-parks-for-guinea-bissau/ |access-date=2023-09-07 |language=en-US}}</ref> [[Outamba-Kilimi National Park]] in Sierra Leone,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Parks.it - Parks, Reserves, and Other Protected Areas in Sierra Leone |url=https://www.parks.it/world/SL/Eindex.html |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=www.parks.it}}</ref> [[Mont Sangbé National Park]] in Ivory Coast,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-12-19 |title=Discover the national parks of Ivory Coast {{!}} Discover Ivorycoast |url=https://discover-ivorycoast.com/national-parks/ |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=discover-ivorycoast.com |language=en-GB}}</ref> [[Bui National Park]] and [[Digya National Park]] in Ghana,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Protected Areas in Ghana {{!}} Clearing House mechanism of Ghana |url=https://gh.chm-cbd.net/biodiversity/faunal-diversity-ghana/-situ-conservation-2/protected-areas-ghana |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=gh.chm-cbd.net}}</ref> and [[Old Oyo National Park]] and [[Gashaka-Gumti National Park]] in Nigeria.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The Gashaka Primate Project: Nigeria's National Parks |url=https://www.ucl.ac.uk/gashaka/Nigeria/ |access-date=2023-09-07 |website=www.ucl.ac.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Old Oyo National Park |url=http://nigeriaparkservice.gov.ng/2014/08/12/old-oyo-national-park/ |access-date=2023-09-07 |language=en-US}}</ref>
A 2017 assessment found that 107,116 km², or 16%, of the ecoregion is in protected areas.<ref>Eric Dinerstein, David Olson, et al. (2017). An Ecoregion-Based Approach to Protecting Half the Terrestrial Realm, BioScience, Volume 67, Issue 6, June 2017, Pages 534–545; Supplemental material 2 table S1b. [https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/bix014]</ref> Protected areas include [[Upper Niger National Park]] in Guinea, [[Dulombi-Boe National Park]] in Guinea-Bissau, [[Outamba-Kilimi National Park]] in Sierra Leone, [[Mont Sangbé National Park]] in Ivory Coast, [[Bui National Park]] and [[Digya National Park]] in Ghana, and [[Old Oyo National Park]] and [[Gashaka-Gumti National Park]] in Nigeria.

== Research and Monitoring ==
Scientists and researchers are actively studying this region to better understand its ecological dynamics, species distribution, and responses to environmental changes.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Luiselli |first1=Luca |last2=Dendi |first2=Daniele |last3=Eniang |first3=Edem A. |last4=Fakae |first4=Barineme B. |last5=Akani |first5=Godfrey C. |last6=Fa |first6=John E. |date=2017 |title=State of knowledge of research in the Guinean forests of West Africa region |url=https://www.academia.edu/82225313 |journal=Acta Oecologica |volume=94 |pages=3 |issn=1146-609X}}</ref> Some key aspects of this research and monitoring initiative includes:

# Ecosystem Description
#* Biodiversity: The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is renowned for its high biodiversity, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Darwall |first1=W |last2=Polidoro |first2=B |last3=Smith |first3=K |date=2015 |title=Ecosystem profile guinean forests of West Africa biodiversity hotspot |journal=Academia.edu}}</ref> This region is home to several endangered and endemic species, such as chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, and various rare plants.
#* Ecotone: It is an ecotone, which means it's the transition zone between two major biomes: the dense tropical rainforests to the south and the open savannas to the north.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Hennenberg |first1=Klaus J. |last2=Goetze |first2=Dethardt |last3=Kouamé |first3=Lucien |last4=Orthmann |first4=Bettina |last5=Porembski |first5=Stefan |date=2005 |title=Border and Ecotone Detection by Vegetation Composition along Forest-Savanna Transects in Ivory Coast |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/4096693 |journal=Journal of Vegetation Science |volume=16 |issue=3 |pages=301–310 |jstor=4096693 |issn=1100-9233}}</ref> This unique blend of habitats contributes to its ecological significance.
# Research Goals
#* Biodiversity Assessment: Researchers aim to conduct comprehensive surveys to document the plant and animal species in the region. This includes identifying and cataloging both common and rare species, which helps in understanding the ecosystem's overall health.<ref name=":1">{{Cite book |last=Oates |first=John F. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=23g8PAAACAAJ |title=Africa's Gulf of Guinea Forests: Biodiversity Patterns and Conservation Priorities |date=2004 |publisher=Conservation International |isbn=978-1-881173-82-3 |language=en}}</ref>
#* Ecosystem Dynamics: Investigating the interactions between the forest and savanna components, such as how fires and land use changes affect the balance between these two ecosystems.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Goetze |first1=Dethardt |last2=Hörsch |first2=Bianca |last3=Porembski |first3=Stefan |date=2006 |title=Dynamics of forest–savanna mosaics in north‐eastern Ivory Coast from 1954 to 2002 |url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1365-2699.2005.01312.x |journal=Journal of Biogeography |language=en |volume=33 |issue=4 |pages=653–664 |doi=10.1111/j.1365-2699.2005.01312.x |issn=0305-0270}}</ref>
#* Conservation Status: Assessing the conservation status of key species and identifying threats, such as habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, to develop effective conservation strategies.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Allport |first=Gary |date=1991 |title=The status and conservation of threatened birds in the Upper Guinea forest |url=https://www.cambridge.org/core/product/identifier/S095927090000054X/type/journal_article |journal=Bird Conservation International |language=en |volume=1 |issue=1 |pages=53–74 |doi=10.1017/S095927090000054X |issn=0959-2709|doi-access=free }}</ref>
#* Indigenous Knowledge: Collaborating with local communities to tap into their indigenous knowledge about the ecosystem and its conservation.<ref>{{Cite web |title=The role of indigenous knowledge in forestry assessment and monitoring in Uganda |s2cid=129755294 }}</ref> This local knowledge is invaluable for understanding the region's dynamics.
# Monitoring and Data Collection
#* Camera Traps: Researchers often use camera traps to capture images of wildlife in the area. This technology allows for non-intrusive monitoring of elusive species.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Bersacola |first1=Elena |last2=Hill |first2=Catherine M. |last3=Nijman |first3=Vincent |last4=Hockings |first4=Kimberley J. |date=2022-12-01 |title=Examining primate community occurrence patterns in agroforest landscapes using arboreal and terrestrial camera traps |url=https://doi.org/10.1007/s10980-022-01524-7 |journal=Landscape Ecology |language=en |volume=37 |issue=12 |pages=3103–3121 |doi=10.1007/s10980-022-01524-7 |issn=1572-9761}}</ref><ref>{{Citation |last1=Amin |first1=Rajan |title=The Use of Camera‐Traps to Monitor Forest Antelope Species |date=2016-07-21 |url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/9781118409572.ch11 |work=Antelope Conservation |pages=190–216 |editor-last=Bro‐Jørgensen |editor-first=Jakob |access-date=2023-10-22 |edition=1 |publisher=Wiley |language=en |doi=10.1002/9781118409572.ch11 |isbn=978-1-118-40964-0 |last2=Bowkett |first2=Andrew E. |last3=Wacher |first3=Tim |editor2-last=Mallon |editor2-first=David P.}}</ref>
#* Remote Sensing: Satellite imagery and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) are used to monitor land cover changes, deforestation, and the expansion of agriculture in the region.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Wingate |first1=V.R. |last2=Akinyemi |first2=F.O. |last3=Iheaturu |first3=C.J. |date=2022 |title=A Remote Sensing-Based Inventory of West Africa Tropical Forest Patches: A Basis for Enhancing Their Conservation and Sustainable Use |journal=Remote Sensing}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite journal |last1=Nyerges |first1=A. Endre |last2=Green |first2=Glen Martin |date=2000 |title=The Ethnography of Landscape: GIS and Remote Sensing in the Study of Forest Change in West African Guinea Savanna |url=https://www.jstor.org/stable/683678 |journal=American Anthropologist |volume=102 |issue=2 |pages=271–289 |jstor=683678 |issn=0002-7294}}</ref>
#* Field Surveys: Ecologists and biologists conduct field surveys to collect data on plant and animal populations, habitat quality, and ecological processes.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />
#* Weather and Climate Data: Monitoring meteorological and climate data helps understand how changing weather patterns impact the ecosystem.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Z |first1=Liu |last2=MC |first2=Wimberly |last3=FK |first3=Dwomoh |date=2016 |title=Vegetation dynamics in the upper guinean forest region of West Africa from 2001 to 2015 |journal=Remote Sensing}}</ref>
# Conservation and Policy Implications
#* Protected Areas: Research findings often lead to the creation or expansion of protected areas or national parks.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Cronin |first1=Drew T. |last2=Libalah |first2=Moses B. |last3=Bergl |first3=Richard A. |last4=Hearn |first4=Gail W. |date=2014-11-01 |title=Biodiversity and Conservation of Tropical Montane Ecosystems in the Gulf of Guinea, West Africa |url=https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1657/1938-4246-46.4.891 |journal=Arctic, Antarctic, and Alpine Research |language=en |volume=46 |issue=4 |pages=891–904 |doi=10.1657/1938-4246-46.4.891 |issn=1523-0430}}</ref> These areas help conserve the unique biodiversity found in the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic.
#* Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is critical. This includes providing alternative livelihoods to reduce their reliance on forest resources and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=DESTINA |first=S |date=2019 |title=COMMUNITY-CENTERED SUSTAINABLE CONSERVATION AND ECOTOURISM PLANNING IN THE BOSSOU FOREST RESERVE, GUINEA, WEST AFRICA |journal=Digital Commons}}</ref>
#* Policy Advocacy: Sharing research results with policymakers can influence decisions related to land use, logging, agriculture, and other activities that can impact the ecosystem.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Mayers |first1=J. |last2=Bass |first2=S. |date=1999 |title=Policy That Works for Forests and People: Real Prospects for Governance and Livelihoods |s2cid=152380421 }}</ref>
# Challenges and Threats
#* Habitat Loss: The conversion of natural habitat for agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development is a significant threat.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Fitzgerald |first1=Maegan |last2=Nackoney |first2=Janet |last3=Potapov |first3=Peter |last4=Turubanova |first4=Svetlana |date=2021-12-01 |title=Agriculture is the primary driver of tree cover loss across the Forestière region of the Republic of Guinea, Africa |url=https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/2515-7620/ac4278 |journal=Environmental Research Communications |volume=3 |issue=12 |pages=121004 |doi=10.1088/2515-7620/ac4278 |issn=2515-7620}}</ref>
#* Illegal Wildlife Trade: The region is also a hotspot for illegal wildlife trade, posing a severe risk to many endangered species.<ref>{{Cite journal |last=Walters |first=A.E. |date=2019 |title=Pillaging Bloodwood: An Exploratory Examination of Illegal Deforestation in Guinea-Bissau Through Forest Disturbance Algorithms and Unsupervised Clustering |journal=Library.oregonstate.edu}}</ref>
#* Climate Change: Shifts in weather patterns and increased droughts and wildfires due to climate change can affect the balance between the forest and savanna components.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Justice |first1=C |last2=Wilkie |first2=D |last3=Zhang |first3=Q |last4=Brunner |first4=J |date=2001 |title=Central African forests, carbon and climate change |journal=Climate Research}}</ref>


==External links==
==External links==

Latest revision as of 21:37, 28 April 2024

Guinean forest–savanna mosaic
Map of the Guinean forest–savanna mosaic ecoregion
Ecology
RealmAfrotropical
Biometropical and subtropical grasslands, savannas, and shrublands
Borders
Geography
Area668,905 km2 (258,266 sq mi)
Countries
Conservation
Conservation statusCritical/endangered
Protected107,116 km² (16%)[1]

The Guinean forest-savanna , also known as the Guinean forest-savanna transition, is a distinctive ecological region located in West Africa.[2][3] It stretches across several countries including Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Benin, Nigeria, and Cameroon. This region is characterized by a unique blend of forested areas and savannas, creating a diverse and dynamic landscape.

It is an ecoregion of West Africa, a band of interlaced forest, savanna, and grassland running east to west and dividing the tropical moist forests near the coast from the West Sudanian savanna of the interior.

Setting[edit]

The Guinean forest–savanna mosaic covers an area of 673,600 square kilometers (260,100 sq mi), extending from western Senegal to eastern Nigeria, and including portions of Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin and Cameroon.[4] The Cameroon Highlands of eastern Nigeria and Cameroon separate the Guinean forest–savanna mosaic from the Northern Congolian forest–savanna mosaic, which lies to the east.[5] The Dahomey Gap is a region of Togo and Benin where the forest-savanna mosaic extends to the coast, and separates the Upper Guinean forests of Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, and Ghana from the Lower Guinean forests of Nigeria and Cameroon.[6]

Climate[edit]

The climate in this region varies depending on the specific location, but it generally experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.[7] The wet season brings heavy rainfall, while the dry season is characterized by lower precipitation and drier conditions. This ecoregion is situated in the humid tropical savanna zone, where the average yearly high temperatures range from 30 to 33°C and the lows range from 14 to 21°C. The annual rainfall typically falls between 1,600 and 2,000 mm, although there are areas in the Dahomey Gap that receive 1,000 mm or less annually.[4][8]

The Guinean savanna mosaic represents a critical ecological transition zone between the dense, evergreen rainforests to the south and the more open, tree-dotted savannas to the north. This transition creates a unique mix of plant and animal species adapted to varying ecological conditions.[9] Like many ecosystems worldwide, the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Altered rainfall patterns, increased temperatures, and more frequent extreme weather events have affected the health and composition of this biome.[10][11]

Biodiversity[edit]

The Guinean forest–savanna mosaic is known for its high biological diversity.[12] It is home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including many endemic species that are found nowhere else in the world. Some iconic species found here include chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, forest elephants, and various species of primates and birds. They also include several species of primates, reptiles, amphibians, and plants that have evolved in isolation within this region.[13]

Vegetation[edit]

  • Forest: The forested areas in this mosaic are primarily composed of tropical rainforests, characterized by high rainfall, high humidity, and diverse flora and fauna.[14][15] These forests are home to a wide variety of plant species, including towering hardwood trees, lianas, epiphytes, and a rich understory of shrubs and herbs.
  • Savanna: The savanna component consists of grasslands interspersed with scattered trees, which are adapted to periodic fires.[16][17][18][19] The savanna ecosystem supports a different set of plant species, including various grasses, shrubs, and acacia trees.

Flora[edit]

Woodland in Guinea Savanna
Woodland in Guinea Savanna

This biome is characterized by a mix of forested areas and open savannas.[20] It is often referred to as a mosaic because it consists of a patchwork of different vegetation types.[21] In the forested areas, you can find a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, while the savanna regions feature grasslands and scattered trees.[22] In terms of plant life, it contains a mix of tree species such as mahogany, iroko, and various species of acacia, alongside grasses and shrubs common to savannas. The region is mainly grassland crossed with trees growing alongside streams and on hillsides, with the constantly occurring fires keeping back the growth of trees in open country.[4] Lophira lanceolata is one of the tree species found that is more resistant to fire than many others.[23]

Fauna[edit]

The mixture of forest and grassland provide habitat for a range of species from large mammals[24] such as African leopard, forest elephants, hippopotamus and antelopes such as the red-flanked duiker to the common tortoise as well as more localised species including patas monkeys and Ghana worm lizards (Amphisbaenia).[25] The wetlands in the region are rich in birdlife, including iris glossy starling and black crowned crane.[26]

  • Mammals: The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is home to a wide variety of mammalian species.[27][28] This includes iconic species such as African elephants, western chimpanzees, and western lowland gorillas. Other notable mammals include leopards, various species of antelope (such as duikers and bushbucks), and a diverse range of primates (like guenons, colobus monkeys, and baboons).
  • Birds: The avifauna of this region is highly diverse, with hundreds of species recorded.[29][30] This includes a mix of forest-dwelling birds like turacos, hornbills, and various species of parrots, as well as savanna-adapted species like raptors, bustards, and various types of weavers.
  • Reptiles and Amphibians: The mosaic is also home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians, including numerous snake species, chameleons, crocodiles, and an array of frogs and toads.[31][32][33]
  • Invertebrates: The biodiversity of invertebrates, including insects and arachnids, is extremely high, with countless species contributing to the overall ecological balance.[34][35][36]

Human settlement[edit]

The ecoregion covers large areas of many West African nations including:

Threats and Conservation[edit]

Like many tropical ecosystems, this mosaic is under threat from various human activities.[40] Deforestation due to logging, agriculture expansion, and mining operations pose significant challenges to its conservation. Additionally, infrastructure development and road construction can fragment habitats, making it difficult for wildlife to move between different areas.[41][42]

  • Deforestation and Habitat Loss: One of the most significant threats to the biodiversity of the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is deforestation.[43][44] This occurs due to agriculture expansion, logging, and infrastructure development.
  • Hunting and Poaching: Unsustainable hunting and poaching for bushmeat and the pet trade can put immense pressure on the local wildlife populations.[45][46][47]
  • Climate Change: Changes in rainfall patterns, temperature, and other climatic factors can disrupt the delicate ecological balance of the region.[48][49]
  • Conservation Efforts: Several conservation organizations and government agencies are working to protect and restore the biodiversity of this mosaic.[50][51] This includes the establishment of protected areas, community-based conservation initiatives, and sustainable land-use planning.

Conservation Initiatives[edit]

Conservation organizations and governments in the region have recognized the importance of preserving the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic.[52] Efforts have been made to establish protected areas and national parks, such as Taï National Park in Ivory Coast and Gola Rainforest National Park in Sierra Leone and Liberia.[53][54]

Protected areas[edit]

The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is a biologically diverse and ecologically significant region in West Africa.[55] Its unique blend of forest and savanna habitats, along with its endemic species, make it an area of global importance for conservation efforts.[56][57] A 2017 assessment found that 107,116 km2, or 16%, of the ecoregion is in protected areas.[1] Protected areas include Upper Niger National Park in Guinea,[58] Dulombi-Boe National Park in Guinea-Bissau,[59] Outamba-Kilimi National Park in Sierra Leone,[60] Mont Sangbé National Park in Ivory Coast,[61] Bui National Park and Digya National Park in Ghana,[62] and Old Oyo National Park and Gashaka-Gumti National Park in Nigeria.[63][64]

Research and Monitoring[edit]

Scientists and researchers are actively studying this region to better understand its ecological dynamics, species distribution, and responses to environmental changes.[65] Some key aspects of this research and monitoring initiative includes:

  1. Ecosystem Description
    • Biodiversity: The Guinean forest-savanna mosaic is renowned for its high biodiversity, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal species.[66] This region is home to several endangered and endemic species, such as chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, and various rare plants.
    • Ecotone: It is an ecotone, which means it's the transition zone between two major biomes: the dense tropical rainforests to the south and the open savannas to the north.[67] This unique blend of habitats contributes to its ecological significance.
  2. Research Goals
    • Biodiversity Assessment: Researchers aim to conduct comprehensive surveys to document the plant and animal species in the region. This includes identifying and cataloging both common and rare species, which helps in understanding the ecosystem's overall health.[68]
    • Ecosystem Dynamics: Investigating the interactions between the forest and savanna components, such as how fires and land use changes affect the balance between these two ecosystems.[69]
    • Conservation Status: Assessing the conservation status of key species and identifying threats, such as habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, to develop effective conservation strategies.[70]
    • Indigenous Knowledge: Collaborating with local communities to tap into their indigenous knowledge about the ecosystem and its conservation.[71] This local knowledge is invaluable for understanding the region's dynamics.
  3. Monitoring and Data Collection
    • Camera Traps: Researchers often use camera traps to capture images of wildlife in the area. This technology allows for non-intrusive monitoring of elusive species.[72][73]
    • Remote Sensing: Satellite imagery and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) are used to monitor land cover changes, deforestation, and the expansion of agriculture in the region.[74][75]
    • Field Surveys: Ecologists and biologists conduct field surveys to collect data on plant and animal populations, habitat quality, and ecological processes.[68][75]
    • Weather and Climate Data: Monitoring meteorological and climate data helps understand how changing weather patterns impact the ecosystem.[76]
  4. Conservation and Policy Implications
    • Protected Areas: Research findings often lead to the creation or expansion of protected areas or national parks.[77] These areas help conserve the unique biodiversity found in the Guinean forest-savanna mosaic.
    • Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is critical. This includes providing alternative livelihoods to reduce their reliance on forest resources and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.[78]
    • Policy Advocacy: Sharing research results with policymakers can influence decisions related to land use, logging, agriculture, and other activities that can impact the ecosystem.[79]
  5. Challenges and Threats
    • Habitat Loss: The conversion of natural habitat for agriculture, logging, and infrastructure development is a significant threat.[80]
    • Illegal Wildlife Trade: The region is also a hotspot for illegal wildlife trade, posing a severe risk to many endangered species.[81]
    • Climate Change: Shifts in weather patterns and increased droughts and wildfires due to climate change can affect the balance between the forest and savanna components.[82]

External links[edit]

  • "Guinean forest-savanna mosaic". Terrestrial Ecoregions. World Wildlife Fund.

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