Tree Species Diversity and Dominance in relation to Soil properties in University of Uyo Arboretum

Author(s): Mbong EO, Ogbemudia FO, Samuel EI

Effects of nutrient variation on the abundance and distribution of tree species in University of Uyo Arboretum was investigated. Systematic sampling method was used in sampling soil and vegetation parameters. A total of eight (8) soil samples were obtained at two soil derpths (0 – 15cm and 15 – 30 cm) from four plots. The result revealed that six (6) species from 5 families viz :Lamiaceae, Fabaceace, Urticaceae, Moraceae, and Rubiaceae. Nauclea diderrichii (12.66m) was the tallest species while Tectona grandis (6.12m) was the shortest species. Dominance index ranged from 0.654 to 0.347. Also, Shannon and Simpson diversity indices ranged from 1.079 to 0.529 and 0.653 to 0.345 respectively. Correlation analysis indicated that soil pH significantly (P>0.05) influenced species dominance while silt and available phosphorus significantly (P>0.05) influenced tree species diversity indices in the forest. These results further confirm the notions that pedological indices and nutrient status of soil play critical roles in plant species distribution and vegetation morphology in natural ecosystems. The information obtained in this research could be useful in management of indigenous forest ecosystems.