Diversity and distribution of epiphytic plants on makerere university main campus, kampala district
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Date
2023-12-08Author
Atuhairwe, Eron
Akello, Cecilia
Angulu, Godfrey
Kikomeko, Fildaus
Mugume, Innocent
Mukiibi, Joseph
Mulongo, Dagaras
Nakaana, Ibrahim
Nanongo, Cyrus
Okuku, Ouma Stephen
Tashoma, Alex
Wamimbi, Alex
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This research project aims to investigate the diversity and distribution patterns of epiphytes on the Makerere University Main Campus in Uganda. Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants but do not rely on them for nutrients, and they play a crucial role in the overall biodiversity of ecosystems. The study area, Makerere University Main Campus, Uganda is known for its rich flora and diverse microhabitats, providing an ideal setting to explore the epiphytic vegetation. The research methodology involved conducting field surveys across different habitats within the campus, including trees and shrubs. A systematic random sampling approach was employed to collect quantitative data on the epiphytic species composition, phorophytic composition, abundance, and distribution in different regions of the campus; central, western, eastern, Northern and Southern regions. Plant net application was used to identify the names of different host trees with their epiphytes. Various kinds of data were collected including, phorophyte species, their location coordinates (using GPS Camera application), epiphytic species, their abundance among others. The collected coordinates were used to generate a map showing location of the selected phorophytes with their respective epiphytes using Maptive software. These were recorded to examine their influence on epiphytic communities. Key findings of the study reveal a high diversity of epiphytes on the Makerere University Main Campus, with a wide range of species observed, both phorophytes and their epiphytes. The observed species included both vascular epiphytes and non-vascular epiphytes with the non-vascular epiphytes having the highest diversity and abundance levels as observed in the five regions we investigated on Makerere university main campus. The most common epiphyte families found include polytrichaceae (moss), Bromeliaceae, also known as air plants and Polypodiaceae which is a family of fern plants with platycerium elephantotis schweinf (tree cabbage) being among the most diverse and widely distributed epiphyte on the campus. Epiphytes were found to be distributed across different microhabitats, with tree trunks and branches being the most preferred substrates. However, the abundance and diversity of epiphytes varied among different tree species and habitats. It was also found out that trees near the roads, where vehicles pass have lower diversity of epiphytic species and this may be attributed to high level of pollution from fumes produced by moving vehicles. This report also presents coordinates of named phorophytes with the epiphytes present to enable further research about these useful plant species. The coordinates were used to create a map. This research contributes to our understanding of the ecological dynamics and conservation implications of epiphytes in urban environments. In conclusion, the findings suggest that the Makerere University Main Campus serves as a crucial habitat for epiphytic vegetation, highlighting the importance of preserving and managing green plants within urban areas. Finally, this research provides valuable insights into the diversity and distribution patterns of epiphytes on the Makerere University Main Campus. It recommends the need for further studies to explore the ecological interactions and conservation strategies for these unique plant communities, preserving and protecting host trees, enhance micro-environmental conditions, promote diversity of tree species, educational programs and awareness among others. Understanding the role of epiphytes in urban ecosystems can inform sustainable management practices and contribute to the overall conservation efforts in Uganda.