Sacred Groves and the Conservation of Forest Genetic Resources: a review

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Jericho Hills, Ibadan, Nigeria.

2 Department of Forestry & Wildlife, Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta.

Abstract

Sacred groves are found globally with evidence of distinct belief systems. They are sacred tracts of forests safeguarded by religious beliefs as the home of Gods and Goddesses. The importance of forests for maintaining societies is reflected in the important cultural values attributed to the forests by different cultures. This review paper contributes to the conservation of these forests for forest genetic resources. Some sacred groves are seen as protectors of wildlife, where both hunting and felling of trees are forbidden, some provide many useful goods such as fuelwood, medicine, vegetables, and edible fruits.  As a result, these groves play an important role in the survival of plants and animal species that have become extremely extinct elsewhere. In some localities, sacred groves are protected because they provide shade to protect structures and farms. Some are reserved for elephant fodder. The sacred locations are the final refuge for numerous species that are already endangered. Homes to trees, climbers, shrubs and other plants forms for medicinal purposes. There is a need to integrate traditional knowledge with modern conservation practices or create legal frameworks to strengthen conservation efforts. 

Keywords

Egyptian Academic Journal of Biological Sciences, H. Botany
Volume 15, Issue 2
December 2024
Pages 43-55

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