Theory question 106
Relief and Map Interpretation(a) Draw an outline map of Nigeria. On the map, show and name: (i) the forest belts (ii) an important town in each belt (iii) the Lake Chad. (b) Describe three characteristics of any one of the forest belts shown on the map. (c) Outline three ways in which the forest belts are of importance to Nigeria.
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(a) Mangrove swamp forest along the coast (Port Harcourt, Warri, Lagos); tropical rain forest inland (Benin City, Ibadan, Enugu, Akure); freshwater swamp forest of the Niger Delta interior; Lake Chad in the north-east.
(b) Rain forest: tall evergreen trees in three layers; broad leaves and buttress roots; many species (mahogany, iroko, obeche); climbers and epiphytes; dense undergrowth. Mangrove: stilt (aerial) roots; trees about 10-20 m; few species; grow in salty muddy water.
(c) Timber for building and export; fuelwood and charcoal; raw materials for paper, plywood and furniture industries; food, fruits and medicinal plants; habitat for wildlife and tourism; protect soils and influence climate; employment.
Mark each belt in its correct latitude from the coast inland.