Diversity and Abundance of Amenity Trees in the Premises of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract

Amenity trees are an essential element of most urban communities, contributing significantly to human well-being and improving environmental quality. Good knowledge of the diversity and abundance of trees in our environment and their importance can help promote conservation, which is essential for sustainability. This study aimed at assessing the diversity and abundance of amenity trees on the premises of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan Nigeria. The institute was divided into working and residential areas. The trees in the study area were identified using a walking and windshield survey. A total population of 2626 trees from 126 species and 42 families were identified on the premises of IITA. The highest tree population of 523 trees was recorded in the Tropical Crescent residential area with 321 trees of Lagerstroemia speciosa being the most frequent species. Across working and residential areas, Elaeis guineensis was the most frequent species accounting for 19.92% of the total tree population. A Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index (H’) of 3.383 and species evenness of 0.43 was obtained from the study area. The high values of diversity indices obtained indicate that IITA premises are rich in diverse tree species both indigenous and exotic hence should be referenced as a good urban landscape. The current management practices can be recommended for other institutions.