Abstract: Volume models for the long-term management of Okomu National Park in Nigeria are not available. The main challenge in assessing forest resources is the lack of accurate, species-specific baseline data and updated informa tion on volume models, growth rates, and disturbances. This complicates the development of effective management plans. This study addresses this by modelling tree volume using temporary sample plots laid out using a systematic line tran sect method Data was collected from 16 40 m × 50 m plots using a Spiegel relascope. DBH, top, middle, and base diam eters, and overall height were measured for trees ≤ 10 cm DBH. Newton’s formula calculated volume of each tree, and per hectare estimates generated. The results showed an aver age of 132 trees per hectare. Population densities of individ ual species ranged from 1–11/ha, indicating a low density. Strombosia pustulata was the most abundant species. For coefficients that form the basis for species grouping, species specific volume equations were developed and grouped into three clusters. Regression equations were fitted and selected based on specific statistical metrics. The volume models showed that generalized (V _i= b₀ + b₁(D²_i H_i)+ε_i) functions, based on the statistical metrics, performed more effectively. The generalized functions exhibited superior performance, evidenced by the uniform residual plot distribution for The online version is available at https:// link. sprin ger. com/. Corresponding editor: Tao Xu Project Funding: This Project was co-sponsored by the authors. * H. I. Aigbe igaigbe@yahoo.com 1 Department of Forestry and Wildlife Technology, Federal University of Technology, PMB 1526, Owerri, Nigeria DBH²H, implying consistent experimental error and adher ence to regression assumptions. A t-test at 95% confidence showed that the discrepancy between predicted and actual values was insignificant. This study indicates that the predic tion models provide effective management tools for climate mitigation and determining carbon sequestration by a tropi cal forest.

Key words: Modelling, Volume equations, Tropical rainforest, Okomu National Park, Tree species