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Received: 17 Sep 2019. Received in revised form: 26 Mar 2020. Accepted: 28 Mar 2020. Published online: 31 Mar 2020.
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020)
Notulae Scientia Biologicae 12(1):100-113
DOI:10.15835/nsb12110561
Research Article
Assessment of tree species diversity and benefits in selected recreation
centres for biodiversity conservation in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria
Oluwasanmi T. BOLANLE-OJO
1,2
*, Adepeju R. FALANA
3
,
Oluwayomi I. BOLANLE-OJO
1
, Cuong LEVAN
2,4
1
Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Department of Sustainable Forest Management, P.M.B. 5054, Jericho, Ibadan, Oyo State,
Nigeria; bolanle-ojo@frin.gov.ng; bolanleojo2012@gmail.com (*corresponding author); jemimahbojo@yahoo.com
2
Anhui Agricultural University, School of Forestry and Landscape Architecture, Hefei 230036, Anhui Province, China
3
Federal College of Forestry, Department of Forestry Technology, P.M.B. 5054, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria; pejusmile@gmail.com
4
Vitenam National University of Forestry, Faculty of Forestry, Hanoi, 100000, Vietnam; cuongvfu.90@gmail.com
Abstract
The present study assessed the trees species diversity and the benefits that arise from their presence in
five selected recreation centers in the urban area of Ibadan: Agodi Gardens, Ibadan Recreation Club, National
Museum of Unity, Ibadan Golf Club and Ibadan Polo Club. The selected areas were purposively chosen due
to the presence of tree species in the urban landscape. Both primary and secondary data were used for the study.
Agodi Garden had in total 537 individuals, 46 tree species within 25 families. Ibadan Recreation Club had the
total number of 148 trees, whereas 32 species within 22 families were represented. National Museum of Unity
had a total number of 770 trees, classified in 23 species within 17 families. Ibadan Polo Club had a total number
of 97 trees, 20 species and 15 families were represented. Ibadan Golf Club had a total number of 915 trees, 31
species and 9 families. Fabaceae family had the highest occurrence in Ibadan Recreation Club, National
Museum of Unity, Ibadan Golf Club and Ibadan Polo Club, while Verbenaceae was more represented in Agodi
Gardens. The study has shown the high occurrence of invasive species in tropical environment based on their
regeneration potential. Data collected on total number of tree species, frequency of occurrence and families
were subjected to descriptive analysis. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information. These
centers serve as ex-situ urban centers/parks that still maintain and conserve various tree species and are
important resources for social, economic and educational use. Biodiversity indices were also analyzed and it can
be concluded that the type of organization and the main activity of the centers strongly influence the species
diversity. The trend of Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H') showed that Ibadan Polo Club was the most
diverse. Despite the higher number of individual trees encountered in NMUI, the H' value was very low,
indicating the dominance of a few tree species within the area. From E
H
values obtained in the study, it can be
concluded that trees species are most evenly distributed in IPC, followed by IRC, AG, IGC and lastly by
NUMI.
Keywords: biodiversity; conservation; environmental protection; human well-being; tree species
AcademicPres Notulae Scientia Biologicae
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
101
Introduction
Urban forests are affected by urbanization due to the increase in human population. Nigeria is one of
the most densely populated countries in the world and is affected by urbanization which has resultant effect on
forest cover (Fuwape and Onyekwelu, 2011). Urban forestry is one of the strategies for addressing the problems
associated with urbanization (Agbelade et al., 2016a). Urban forestry is defined as the art, science and
technology of managing trees and forest resources in and around urban community ecosystems for the
physiological, sociological, economic and aesthetic benefits that trees provide to the society (Konijnendijk et
al., 2006).
Urban trees are seen as a forest or collection of trees that grows within a city, town, or a suburb. In a
wider sense, these groups of trees may include any kind of woody plants, vegetation growing in and around
human settlements (FAO, 2006; Canno-purt, 2012). The benefit of urban trees and shrubs are numerous,
among which beautification, reduction of urban heat and cooling, reduction of storm water run-off, reduction
of air pollution, reduction of energy costs through increased shade over buildings, enhancement of property
valves, improved wildlife habitat and overall urban environment impact (FAO, 2006; Wilson, 2011) are worth
mentioning.
Recreation centers include facilities, buildings, areas that are opened to the public, where meetings are
held, sports are played, people of all ages can work out and have different activities. Recreation is an activity of
leisure, leisure being discretionary time (Cushman and Laidler, 1990). The need to do something for recreation
is an essential element of human biology and psychology (Bruce, 1995). Recreation activities are often done for
enjoyment, amusement, or pleasure and are considered to be fun. Recreation is an essential part of human life
and finds many different forms which are shaped naturally by individual interests, but also by the surrounding
social constructions (Bruce, 1995).
Ibadan metropolis, being the largest city in West Africa, has different recreation centers with little or no
information available on the different tree species present in these areas. There is no baseline information/ data
on the tree species that can be found in these centers for biodiversity conservation. Hence, the present study
assessed the tree species’ diversity and their benefits in five selected recreation centers in Ibadan metropolis,
Nigeria, in regard with biodiversity conservation.
Materials and Methods
Study area
The study was carried out in five representative recreation centers in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria,
namely: Agodi Gardens, Ibadan Recreation Club, National Museum of Unity, Ibadan Golf Club and Ibadan
Polo Club (Figure 1).
Agodi gardens (AG)
Agodi Garden is a recreational center located in Ibadan Oyo province in Nigeria. Ibadan is the third
largest city by population in the country and also the third largest city in Africa. The garden is situated near the
center of the sprawling Ibadan metropolis, near the Oyo State Secretariat Complex. It stands out as a green
lung in the surrounding urban landscape with a great recreational potential. It is located on latitude 7°
24ʹ 20ʹʹ
N and longitude 3° 54ʹ 11ʺ E and altitude 193 m. Agodi Garden has been completely renovated to contain a
Botanical Garden, Zoo, swimming pool, guest house bar and a restaurant. Agodi Garden has a lot of other
attractions enclosed in it such as playground areas for children, water park and animal enclosure. Agodi Garden
is a place set for locals and tourists who love natural and cosmopolitan environment.
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
102
National Museum of Unity (NMUI)
The National Museum of Unity is located at Aleshinloye in Ibadan North West local government area
of Oyo state. It is located on latitude 3°
52ʹ 7. 66ʺ E and longitude 7°
23ʹ 5.64ʺ N. It has annual rainfall of 24.0
mm to 708.0 mm, with the average temperature ranges from 21.15 °C to 34.8 °C. The premier museum in
Ibadan is the Museum of National Unity. It is classified into four distinct galleries: The Unity Gallery, Yoruba
Gallery, Masquerade Gallery and Pottery Gallery. The Unit Gallery is a compilation of a wide variety of musical
instrument from all over Nigeria. The objects consist of drums, gongs, rattles and several types of xylophones.
The Yoruba Gallery gives insight into the nation’s transitory past, faith and the numerous archaeological
findings. It also homes in on a fleeting history of the race, symbols of their indigenous religions and excavations
from their lands in Southwestern Nigeria, among others. Pottery Gallery displays a unique collection of
ceramics vessels that served different purposes. The object displayed there are cleared indication of the
workmanship that existed around 3,000 BC. Masquerade Gallery is dedicated to various departed spirits that
are an integral part of Nigeria tradition. This segment of the museum also displays a wide range of exotic masks
and several musical devices.
Figure 1. Map showing study areas
Ibadan Recreation Club (IRC)
Ibadan Recreational Club was formerly known to be Ibadan European Club which was established in
the year 1902. The European Club became Ibadan Recreation center in 1950. Ibadan Recreational Club is
located at Sabo area, Onireke GRA, Ibadan North, Oyo province. It is located on latitude 7° 23ʹ 56ʺ N and
longitude 3° 52ʹ 57ʺ E and altitude 189 m. It mostly rain from March to September, it is dry from October to
February. The average day time temperature is 27 °C and the night time temperature is 22 °C. The recreation
club is equipped with bar, tennis courts, basketball courts, a large swimming pool furnished with pool-beds, an
indoor squash court and a billiard table.
Ibadan Golf Club (IGC)
Ibadan Golf Club is located at Onireke Reservation Area, Ibadan North, Oyo State. The club was
established in 1990. It is located on latitude 7°
23ʹ 56ʺ N and longitude 3°
52ʹ 57ʺ E and altitude 189 m. It rains
from March to September and the weather is dry from October to February. The average day time temperature
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
103
is 27 °C and the night time temperature is 22 °C. One thing that marks the ancient city of Ibadan as a
converging spot is the grand-scale golf club. It offers the ability to find a quiet space to relax or get work done
and escape the hectic work, with amenities like free Wi-Fi, full business facilities, lounge, restaurant, conference
rooms, etc.
Ibadan Polo Club (IPC)
Ibadan Polo Club is located along Eleyele Road, Eleyele, Ibadan North West. It is located on latitude 7°
23ʹ 56ʺ N and longitude 3° 52ʹ 57ʺ E and altitude 189 m. Ibadan Polo Club was declared open in 2016. It
mostly rain from March to September, it is dry from October to February. The average day time temperature
is 27 °C and the night time temperature is 22 °C. The polo club is equipped with a bar and restaurant for
members only and is visited usually on weekends.
Plant enumeration and data analysis
Total enumeration of the five selected recreation centers was carried out. In each study area, detailed
information about all the tree species present were recorded through complete enumeration of plant resources.
A taxonomist from Forest Herbarium Ibadan (FHI), Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN) with the
knowledge of plant identification was involved in the study, to identify all the tree species encountered. In
addition to the above, the frequency and diversity of all tree species in the selected recreation centers were
recorded. Leaves, barks and fruits were collected from the trees that could not be identified on the field and
taken to the FHI in FRIN for identification.
Data collected on total number of tree species, frequency of occurrence and families were subjected to
descriptive analysis. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain information on the environmental
benefits of trees present in the recreation centers. Ten (10) respondents were noted in each recreation centers
which translated to a total of fifty (50) questionnaires for this study. Administration of questionnaires was
done using simple random sampling. Respondents were represented by staff members and tourists in the
recreation centers. These questionnaires were administered in form of interview guide, such that respondents
were requested to complete and return them immediately, thus resulting in 100 % retrieval.
Data analysis for biodiversity indices
Species diversity index was computed using the Shannon-Wiener diversity index (equation 1); (Kent
and Kent and Coker, 1992; Guo et al., 2003).
H =−∑ln()
…..(1)
Where: H' = Shannon-Wiener diversity index; S = total number of species in the community; pi =
proportion of S made up of the ith species; ln = natural logarithm.
Shannon’s maximum diversity index was calculated using equation (2) (Guo et al., 2003)
Hmax = ln (S)….. (2)
Where: Hmax = Shannon’s maximum diversity index; S= total number of species in the community.
Species evenness in each recreation center was determined using Shannon's equitability (EH), which
was obtained using equation (3) (Kent and Coker, 1992).
EH =
=
∑()
()
….. (3)
Data collected on total number of tree species, frequency of occurrence and families were subjected to
descriptive analysis. Data on biodiversity indices were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Duncan
Multiple Range Test (DMRT) was used to test for level of significance between the recreation centers.
Statistical analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS 20.0).
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
104
Results
Biodiversity indices for the investigated recreation centers
From Agodi Gardens, a total of 537 trees were recorded, whereas 25 families were represented, with
Verbenaceae having the highest occurrence. The results revealed that Tectona grandis had the highest frequency
and was followed by Eucalyptus torelliana and Terminalia catappa, while Newbouldia leavis, Senna sesame, Ficus
lutea and Ficus exasperata had the least frequency (Table 1).
A total of 148 tree species were identified, belonging to 22 families with Fabaceae having the highest
occurrence, in Ibadan Recreation Center. The results revealed that S. sesame had the highest frequency, was
followed by Vernonia amygdalina, Casuarina equisetifolia and T. grandis. Afzelia Africana and Azadirachia
indica had the least frequency (Table 2) in the investigated area.
A total of 23 species of trees were recorded, while 17 families were represented, with Fabaceae having
the highest frequency in National Museum of Unity, Ibadan. The results revealed that S. sesame had the highest
frequency; it was followed by T. grandis, while Blighia sapida, Chrysophyllum albidum and Bombax
buonopozense had the least frequency (Table 3).
A total of 20 species of trees were recorded and assign to 15 families among which Fabaceae had the
highest occurrence in Ibadan Polo Club. The results revealed that Albizia lebbeck had the highest frequency
and was followed by Cedrela odorata, T. grandis, while Spondias mombin, N. leavis and C. equisetifolia had the
least frequency (Table 4).
Table 5 shows the number of species present in Ibadan Golf Club. A total of 31 trees species were
recorded, while 9 families were represented, with Fabaceae having the highest occurrence. The results revealed
that Delonix regia had the highest frequency which was followed by Eucalyptus globules. Roystonea regia and
Ceiba pentandra had the least frequency in the investigated area.
Table 1. Taxonomy and frequency distribution of tree species in Agodi Gardens
No. Species Common/Local Names Family Freq. Percent
(%)
1 Terminalia catappa Almond tree Combretaceae 47 8.7
2 Anthocephalus cadamba Kadam Rubiaceae 13 2.4
3 Newbouldia leavis Ewe akoko Bignaniaceae 1 0.2
4 Delonix regia Flame of the forest Fabaceae 3 0.6
5 Tectona grandis Teak Verbenaceae 154 28.5
6 Eucalyptus torelliana Cadaghi Myrtaceae 82 15.2
7 Senna sesame Kassod tree Fabaceae 1 0.2
8 Ceiba pentandra Kapok tree Malvaceae 5 0.9
9 Khaya senegalensis Africa mahogany Meliaceae 3 0.6
10 Ficus exasperata Sand paper Moraceae 1 0.2
11 Ficus mucuso Obobo Moraceae 3 0.6
12 Gmelina arborea White teak Lamiaceae 26 4.8
13 Spondias mombin Iyeye Anacardiaceae 3 0.6
14 Lagerstroemia speciosa Banaba Lythraceae 19 3.5
15 Samanea saman Money pod Fabaceae 1 0.2
16 Dracaena manni Dragon tree Asparagaceae 1 0.2
17 Mangifera indica Mango Anacardiaceae 2 0.4
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
105
18 Terminalia ivorensis Black afara Combretaceae 13 2.4
19 Mansonia altissima Mansonia Sterculiaceae 8 1.5
20 Albizia lebbeck Flea tree Fabaceae 1 0.2
21 Triplochiton scleroxylon Obeche/arere Sterculiaceae 42 7.8
22 Canthium spp - Rubiaceae 2 0.4
23 Gliricidia sepum Quick stick Fabaceae 1 0.2
24 Melaleuca leucadendron White paper bark Myrtaceae 43 7.9
25 Lecaniodiscus cupanioides Akika Sapindaceae 4 0.7
26 Cleistopholis patens Salt and oil tree Annonaceae 5 0.9
27 Dacryodes edulis Butter tree Burseraceae 1 0.2
28 Ficus vogeliana Ficus Moraceae 1 0.2
29 Casuarina equisetifolia Iron wood Casuarinaceae 2 0.4
30 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River redgum Myrtaceae 3 0.6
31 Ficus lutea Rubber tree Moraceae 1 0.2
32 Bambusa vulgaris Bamboo Poaceae 1 0.7
33 Blighia sapida Akee apple Sapindaceae 2 0.2
34 Pterocarpus santalinoides Mututi Fabaceae 2 0.4
35 Chrysophyllum albidum Star apple/agbalumo Sapotaceae 1 0.4
36 Trema orientalis Charcoal tree Ulmaceae 1 0.2
37 Cedrela odorata Spanish cedar Meliaceae 4 0.2
38 Borassus aethiopum African fan palm Arecaceae 2 0.7
39 Elaeis guineensis African oil palm Arecaceae 11 0.4
40 Musanga cecropioides Umbrella tree Urticaceae 2 2
41 Malacantha alnifolia Soft flower Sapotaceae 1 0.4
42 Ficus thonningii Ficus Moraceae 1 0.2
43 Bombax buonopozense Bombax Malvaceae 1 0.2
44 Peltophorum pterophorum Yellow flame tree Fabaceae 14 0.2
45 Melia azeachdarach Bead tree Meliaceae 1 2.6
46 Alstonia boonei Stool wood/awun Apocynaceae 1 0.2
TOTAL 537 100
Table 2. Taxonomy and frequency distribution of tree species in Ibadan Recreation Club
No. Species Common/Local Names Family Freq. Percent
(%)
1 Terminalia catappa Almond tree Combretaceae 6 4.1
2 Senna sesame Kassod tree Fabaceae 33 22.3
3 Cocos nucifera Coconut palm Arecaceae 7 4.7
4 Psidium guajava Common guava Myrtaceae 1 0.7
5 Alexandra palm King palm Arecaceae 1 0.7
6 Delonix regia Flame of the forest Fabaceae 6 4.1
7 Citrus sinensis Sweet orange Rutaceae 3 2
8 Ficus benjamina Ficus tree Moraceae 3 0.7
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
106
9 Tecoma stans Yellow trumpet bush Bignoniaceae 7 4.7
10 Lagerstroemia indica Crape myrtle Lythraceae 1 0.7
11 Moringa oleifera Drum stick tree Moringaceae 1 3.4
12 Morinda lucida Ugiga Rubiaceae 5 0.7
13 Vernonia amygdalina Bitter leaf Asteraceae 16 2
14 Gliricidia sepium Quick stick Fabaceae 7 0.7
15 Casuarina equisetifolia Iron wood Casuarinaceae 11 10.8
16 Mangifera indica Mango Anacardiaceae 1 4.7
17 Calotropis procera Sodom apple Apocynaceae 2 7.4
18 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River red gum Myrtaceae 5 0.7
19 Eucalyptus torelliana Cadaghi Myrtaceae 8 1.4
20 Azadirachia indica Neem tree Meliaceae 1 1.4
21 Carica papaya Pawpaw Caricaceae 1 3.4
22 Ficus spp Ficus Moraceae 2 5.4
23 Pinus caribaea Caribbean pine Pinaceae 7 0.7
24 Ceiba petandra Kapok tree Malvaceae 3 0.7
25 Ficus exasperate Sand paper Moraceae 2 1.4
26 Terminalia spp Terminalia Combretaceae 1 4.7
27 Leucaena leucocephala Leucaena Fabaceae 1 2
28 Tectona grandis Teak Lamiaceae 1 1.4
29
Afzelia Africana
African mahogany/ oak Fabaceae 1 0.7
30
Plumeria alba
Nosegay Apocynaceae 1 0.7
31 Callitris intratropica Cypress pine Cupressaceae 2 0.7
32 Polyalthia longiflora False ashoka Annonaceae 1 0.7
TOTAL 148 100
Table 3. Taxonomy and frequency distribution of tree species in National Museum of Unity, Ibadan
No. Species Common/Local
Names Family Freq. Percent
(%)
1 Leucaena leucocephala Leucaena Fabaceae 4 0.5
2 Tectona grandis Teak Verbenaceae 29 3.8
3 Senna siamea Kassod tree Fabaceae 664 86.2
4 Mangifera indica Mango Anacardiacee 6 0.8
5 Albizia lebbeck Flea tree Fabaceae 8 1
6 Psidium guajava Guava Myrtaceae 7 0.9
7 Delonix regia Flame of the forest Fabaceae 3 0.4
8 Pinus caribaea Caribbean pine Pinaceae 1 0.1
9 Elaeis guineensis African oil palm Arecaceae 4 0.5
10 Anacardium occidentale Cashew Anacardiacee 1 0.1
11 Terminalia catappa Almond tree Combretaceae 2 0.3
12 Persea Americana Avocado Lauraceae 5 0.7
13 Chrysophyllum albidum Starapple/agbalumo Sapotaceae 1 0.1
14 Azadirachta indica Neem tree Meliaceae 2 0.3
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
107
15 Morinda lucida Oruwo Rubiaceae 3 0.4
16 Albizia adianthifola Flat crown Fabaceae 1 0.1
17 Blighia sapida Ishin/Akee apple Sapindaceae 1 0.1
18 Bombax buonopozense Bombax Malvaceae 1 0.1
19 Citrus sinensis Sweet orange Rutaceae 4 0.5
20 Thuja occidentalis White cedar Cupressaceae 1 0.1
21 Terminalia randii Cameroun tree Combretaceae 1 0.1
22 Strombosia pustulata Oliv Strombosia 1 0.1
23 Carica papaya Pawpaw Caricaceae 20 2.6
TOTAL 770 100
Table 4. Taxonomy and frequency distribution of tree species in Ibadan Polo Club
No. Species Common/Local
Names Family Freq. Percent
(%)
1 Terminalia catappa Almond tree Combretaceae 6 6.2
2 Cedrela odorata Spanish cedar Meliaceae 14 14.4
3 Terminalia ivorensis Black afara Combretaceae 5 5.2
4 Eucalyptus globules Blue gum oil Myrtaceae 6 6.2
5 Spondias mombin Iyeye Anacardiaceae 1 1
6 Leucaena leucophala Leucaena Fabaceae 3 3.1
7 Morinda lucida Oruwo Rubiaceae 2 2.1
8 Hevea brasiliensis Rubber tree Euphorbiaceae 6 6.2
9 Gmelina arborea White teak Lamiaceae 6 6.2
10 Albizia lebbeck Flea tree Fabaceae 19 19.6
11 Gliricidia sepium Quick stick Fabaceae 9 9.3
12 Bombax buonopozense Bombax Malvaceae 1 1
13 Irvingia wombolu Ogbono Irvingiaceae 1 1
14 Irvingia gabonensis Ogbono Irvingiaceae 1 1
15 Azadirachta indica Neem tree Meliaceae 3 3.1
16 Tectona grandis Teak Verbenaceae 9 9.3
17 Ficus exasperate Sand paper tree Moraceae 2 2.1
18 Newbouldia leavis Ewe akoko Bignoniaceae 1 1
19 Casuarinas equisetifolia Iron wood Casuarinaceae 1 1
20 Persea americana Avocado Lauraceae 1 1
TOTAL 97 100
Table 5. Taxonomy and frequency distribution of tree species in in Ibadan Golf Club
No. Species
Common/Locals
Names Family Freq.
Percent
(%)
1
Delonix regia
Flame of the forest Fabaceae 259 28.3
2 Albizia lebbeck Flea tree Fabaceae 89 9.7
3 Terminalia randii Cameroon tree Combretaceae 34 3.7
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
108
4 Eucalyptus camaldulensis River redgum Myrtaceae 37 4
5 Eucalyptus globules Blue gum oil Myrtaceae 196 21.4
6
Gmelia arborea
White teak Lamiaceae 19 2.1
7
Bombax buonopozense
Bombax Malvaceae 8 0.8
8 Newbouldia leavis Ewe akoko Bignanaiaceae 10 1.1
9 Gliricida sepium Quick stick Fabaceae 42 4.6
10 Terminalia superb Afara Combretaceae 10 1.1
11 Terminalia catapa Almond tree Combretaceae 17 1.9
12 Mangifera indica Mango Anacardiaceae 32 3.5
13 Pinus caribaea Caribbean pine Pinaceae 23 2.5
14 Cocos nucifera Coconut palm Arecaceae 4 0.4
15 Tectona grandis Teak Verbenaceae 41 4.5
16 Leucaena leucocephala Leucaena Fabaceae 19 2.1
17 Azadirachta indica Neem tree Meliaceae 9 0.9
18 Cassia senna Senna Fabaceae 12 1.3
19 Cassia fistula Golden shower tree Fabaceae 11 1.2
20 Anthiaris toxicaria False iroko Moraceae 1 0.1
21 Albizia adianthifolia Flat crown Fabaceae 4 0.4
22 Plumeria alba Nosegay Apocynaceae 1 0.1
23 Spondias mombin Iyeye Anacardiaceae 2 0.2
24 Ceiba pentandra Kapok tree Malvaceae 1 0.1
25 Nauclea diderrichii Opepe Rubiaceae 2 0.2
26 Alexandra palm King palm Arecaceae 2 0.2
27 Elaeis guineensis African oil palm Arecaceae 12 1.3
28 Roystonea regia Royal palm Arecaceae 1 0.1
29 Polyalthia longifolia False ashoka Annonaceae 14 1.5
30 Piptadeniastrum africanum African greenheart Fabaceae 11 1.2
31 Strombosia pustulata Oliv Strombosiaceae 1 0.1
TOTAL 915 100
Biodiversity indices of the investigated recreation centers are shown in Table 6. The results show that
Ibadan Golf Club had the highest population of trees, with 915 trees, followed by National Museum of Unity
with 770 trees. Agodi Gardens had 537 trees, followed by Ibadan Recreation Club with 148 trees, while Ibadan
Polo Club had the least population of trees, with 97 trees. However, Agodi Gardens had the highest number
of tree species, with 46 species represented, followed by Ibadan Recreation Club with 32 tree species. Ibadan
Golf Club had 31 tree species, followed by National Museum of Unity, Ibadan with 23 tree species, while
Ibadan Polo Club had the least number of tree species, with 20 species. Moreover, Agodi Gardens had the
highest number of families of tree species, with 25 families represented and followed by Ibadan Recreation Club
with 22 families. National Museum of Unity had 17 families, followed by Ibadan Golf Club with 16 families,
while Ibadan Polo Club had the least number of families of tree species, with 15 families represented.
The result of Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H) for AG, IRC, NMUI, IPC and IGC areas were 2.60,
2.90, 0.76, 2.98 and 2.47 respectively, while Shannon’s maximum diversity index was 6.29, 5.00, 6.65, 4.57 and
6.83 respectively. The result of tree species evenness (Shannon’s equitability (EH) index) in AG, IRC, NMUI,
IPC and IGC were 0.41, 0.58, 0.11, 0.65 and 0.36 respectively. The results of the analysis of variance (ANOVA)
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
109
for comparing tree species diversity in the different recreation centers investigated are presented in Table 6.
Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H') and Shannon maximum diversity index (H
max
) was found to be
significantly different in the selected recreation centers.
The results of mean separation revealed that H' was significantly higher in the recreation centers except
in NUMI that had lower H'. Shannon-Wiener diversity index in AG, IRC, IPC and IGC were not significantly
different from each other but significantly different from the H' in NUMI. Shannon maximum diversity index
was significantly higher in AG, NUMI and IGC compared to other recreation centers. Species evenness
(Shannon’s equitability (E
H
) index) was significantly different from each other.
Table 6. Summary of biodiversity indices of the investigated recreation centers
Biodiversity Indices AG IRC NMUI IPC IGC
No. of individual trees 537
c
148
d
770
b
97
e
924
a
No. of tree species 46
a
32
b
23
c
20
c
31
b
No. of families 25
a
22
a
17
b
15
b
16
b
Shannon Diversity Index (H') 2.60
a
2.90
a
0.74
b
2.98
a
2.47
a
Shannon Maximum Diversity Index (H
max
) 6.29
a
5.00
b
6.65
a
4.57
c
6.83
a
Species evenness (E
H
) 0.41
b
0.58
a
0.11
c
0.65
a
0.36
b
Note: AG = Agodi Garden, IRC = Ibadan Recreation Club, NMU = National Museum of Unity, IPC = Ibadan Polo
Club, IGC = Ibadan Golf Club
Benefits derived from different tree species in the investigated recreation centers
The effects that can be related with urban trees are multiple, all with an increase of the physical,
emotional and ecological state. Table 7 below shows the benefits derived from the tree species present in the
recreation centers studied. The results indicate that respondents are aware of the various benefits derived from
the existence of trees in an urban setting. From the five recreations centers selected, a high percentage of 60 to
80% of the respondents submitted that the trees reduce the heat perception in the recreation areas. Among 30
to 50% of the respondents stated that the trees serve as a wind break. The percentage of respondents that
identified that the trees present in the recreation areas are used for shade were between 50 to 70%. Higher
percentage (from 60 to 80%) of the respondents submitted that the trees are used for beautification purposes
in the recreation centers; likewise, higher percentage (between 70 to 85%) of the respondents derive fresh air
from trees in the recreation centers. Concerning water conservation, between 15 to 70% of the respondents
opined that the trees help in the conservation of water in the recreation centers. Between 50 to 85% of the
respondents submitted that the trees in the recreation centers help in soil conservation, while between 70 to
85% of the respondents identified that they use the trees’ presence for relaxation. Lastly, between 50 to 70% of
the respondents stated that the trees are used for research purposes (Table 7).
Table 7. Benefits derived from tree species present in the studied recreation centers
Benefits derived AG (%) IRC (%) NMUI (%) IPC (%) IGC (%)
Reduction of heat 65 60 80 70 65
Wind break 30 50 30 40 50
Shade 70 50 50 65 70
Beautification 60 70 75 80 70
Provision of quality air 85 75 70 70 65
Conservation of water 70 30 35 10 15
Soil conservation 50 65 50 60 85
Relaxation 75 85 75 70 70
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
110
Edible fruit/ Medicine (Herbs) 50 70 55 60 65
Research purposes 65 55 70 50 55
Note: AG = Agodi Garden, IRC = Ibadan Recreation Club, NMU = National Museum of Unity, IPC = Ibadan Polo
Club, IGC = Ibadan Golf Club
Discussion
The total number of tree species identified in the selected recreation centers is a representation of good
compendium of various tree species and their diversity, which in turn could serve as educational purpose for
locals and tourist, as well as heritage for Oyo State. The results corroborate the assertion of Diouf (1997) who
reported that forest trees species are the most important terrestrial gene banks on Earth that must be conserved.
Ibadan Golf Club had the highest total number of trees, which could be due to the large expanse of the land
used for the golf course. Lower number of trees encountered in Ibadan Polo Club might be due to the relatively
small space available for polo games, which could not accommodate more trees as compared with the land size
of other recreation centers. Agodi Gardens had the highest total number of tree species and families, which
might be due to the ecological attributes including horticulture, botanical conservation, zoo, natural and semi-
natural bodies of water. This corroborates the assertion of Agbeja and Akindele (2016) who reported that the
presence of different tree species and landscape have provided huge attraction to people in and outside Ibadan,
which is the renowned largest city in West Africa. Lower number of tree species and families were observed in
Ibadan Polo Club which can be correlated to the lower number of total trees encountered in the location.
The high number of tree species recorded in some of the recreation centers of the hereby study indicate
a high structural diversity in urban areas of Ibadan. Exotic tree species were found to occur the most in the
different study locations compared to the occurrence of indigenous tree species in recreation centers of urban
settlements of Ibadan metropolis. This might be due to the fast growing nature of the exotic species, which
inform the choice of some tree species planted in the recreation centers. Such a state has encouraged a higher
level of conservation of exotic tree species than the indigenous tree species (Sarrailh and Ayrault, 2001). The
more rapid growth rate of exotic tree species have led to them being favoured for planting, rather than the
indigenous ones (Emtage, 2004). Despite the high occurrence of exotic tree species in the recreation centers,
the studied areas still harbor some number of indigenous tree species that have been reported to be endangered.
The family dominance (fam. Fabaceae) of the tree species in the recreation centers investigated is in
correlation with what has been reported within other tropical rainforest ecosystems. Previous studies on
rainforest ecosystems in Nigeria have reported that Fabaceae is one of the most dominant family of tree species
in such forests (Adekunle et al., 2013; Olajuyigbe and Adaja, 2014; Olusola and Oyeleke, 2015; Olajuyigbe and
Jeminiwa, 2018; Olajuyigbe and Akwarandu, 2019). Even more, Agbelade et al. (2016a) recorded Fabaceae as
the family that dominated the most in-urban and peri-urban areas of Abuja, which is noted as savanna and not
rain forest. This shows the wide spread of Fabaceae family across Nigeria. However, Onyekwelu et al. (2008)
did not encounter Fabaceae family in the Queen’s forest, Oluwa forest and Elephant forest in tropical rainforest
ecosystems. Fabaceae is the third largest plant family and also the most common in the tropical rainforest,
comprising trees, shrubs, lianas and herbs species (Mahbubur-Rahman and Ismot-Ara-Parvin, 2014;
Olajuyigbe and Akwarandu, 2019). The dominance and abundance of species from the Fabaceae family could
be attributed to their invasive nature. These are tree species that are able to survive, reproduce and spread,
unaided, and sometimes at alarming rates, across the landscape (van Wilgen et al., 2001).
Biodiversity indices are produced to bring the diversity and abundance of the species in different habitats
to alike scale for comparison and when the richness of the species is high, it shows that the diversity value is also
high (IIRS, 2002). The Shannon Wiener diversity index (H') has been used for characterizing community
diversity in tropical forest ecosystems in urban and rural settings (Onyekwelu et al., 2008; Agbelade et al.,
2016b; Olajuyigbe and Jeminiwa, 2018; Olajuyigbe and Akwarandu, 2019). The trend of H' in the present
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
111
study showed that Ibadan Polo Club (IPC) was the most diverse of the five recreation centers ibvestigated,
followed by Ibadan Recreation Center (IRC), Agodi Gardens (AG), Ibadan Golf Club (IGC) and lastly by
National Museum of Unity Ibadan (NMUI). Despite the higher number of individual trees encountered in
NMUI, the H' value was very low, indicating the dominance of a few tree species. It was observed that Senna
siamea occurred 664 times out of the 770 number of individual trees in NMUI. The result corroborates the
very low H' value obtained for NMUI. Values for H' for the study locations were lower than their maximum
diversity indices, which is an indication that all species in these locations did not have equal area abundance.
From E
H
values obtained in the study, it can be concluded that trees species are most evenly distributed in IPC,
followed by IRC, AG, IGC and lastly by NUMI. The H' of the recreation centers of the study are within the
range of mean of 3.00 obtained by Rao et al. (2011) for scared groves in Southeastern Ghats, India and also
within the range of 2.94 – 3.99 reported by Agbelade et al. (2016b) for urban forest and peri-urban areas of
Ibadan city in Southwestern Nigeria. Also, H' for IPC and IRC was higher than the value obtained for Elephant
forest in south western Nigeria by Onyekwelu et al. (2008).
Tree species in recreation centers found in urban settings have different benefits that they provide to
people such as food (edible fruits), medicine (herbs), soil and water conservation, relaxation etc. (Agbelade et
al. 2016b). The trees in Ibadan Golf Club help to prevent the soil from erosion, thereby helping in the smooth
play of sport, which in turn increased the number of trees in the location. Ibadan Golf course has helped to
reduced carbon emission in the area due to the larger number of trees. Even more, the trees species in the
recreation centers provide several services such as beautification of car parks, provision of quality air,
conservation of water, clone of trees providing shade, fountains protected with trees, protection of swimming
pools, protection of animals hosted within and so on (Agbeja and Akindele, 2016).
Conclusions
The results of the present study revealed the basic information on the tree diversity in five selected
recreation centers, data that can be used for the development of tree species database for Ibadan metropolis.
The potentials of these recreation centers in conserving biodiversity, providing necessary services towards social
value and environmental management of the city was revealed within the investigation. The study provided
baseline information on the contributions and benefits of trees present in recreation centers in Ibadan
metropolis. The five selected areas have helped in the conservation of different timber tree species and fruit
trees. Exotic tree species are more abundant than indigenous tree species, showing the level of their
regeneration. Fabaceae was found to occur most in the selected recreation centers, revealing the invasive nature
of these species in tropical environment. The studied centers serve as ex-situ urban centers/parks that still
maintain and conserve various tree species for enjoyment of the locals and tourists on daily basis. However, the
management of the areas should be such that it will remain a heritage that must be preserved. These recreation
centers serve as an avenue where research activities can always be carried out. The government at all levels
should create measures which will involve planting and conservation of trees in recreation centers during
construction and development of infrastructure in urban settlements.
Acknowledgements
We want to thank the officer (Mr Chukwuma Emmanuel) in Forest Herbarium, Forestry Research
Institute of Nigeria, who helped in the identification of some of the tree species encountered during the course
of this study.
Bolanle-Ojo OT et al. (2020). Not Sci Biol 12(1):100-113.
112
Conflict of Interests
The authors declare that there are no conflicts of interest related to this article.
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