Tree species composition, stand structure and distribution in Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda

Abstract

Urban trees play a pivotal role in enhancing biodiversity, offering ecological services and contributing to human well being. This study assessed the tree species composition, stand structure and spatial distribution of trees within Makerere University. Stratified random sampling was used across 4 strata with 152 plots of 20x20 surveyed. A total of 1216 individual trees were recorded representing 79 species and 29 families. Persea americana, Mangifera indica and Artocarpus heterophyllus were the most abundant species primarily concentrated in residential areas. Diversity indices revealed a high species richness (Margalef’s index = 10.98) and high diversity (Shannon-Weiner index = 3.69). Most trees (63%) had very few individuals thus highlighting conservation concerns. The diameter and height distributions indicate dominance of younger trees although few mature trees were present. Spatial analyses using GIS and spatial statistics indicated a clustered pattern of tree distribution with hotspots identified in undisturbed and residential areas. These findings show the importance of urban tree inventories and provide evidence for informed decision making, policy formulation and sustainable campus landscaping planning. Furthermore, GIS proved to be an effective tool for analysing spatial patterns of trees. It is concluded that Makerere University Campus has a diverse tree species composition with a stand structure that is dominated by young and a few mature trees where the trees have a clustered spatial distribution. The University should ensure that conservation efforts are directed to species with few individuals, strategic planting should be done in areas without trees and the university should intergrate tree inventory data into University infrastructural development policies for proper planning and management of green spaces within the University campus