Collection and Analysis of Data on Plant Diversity and Tree Carbon Stocks in Urban Areas in Cameroon:The Cases of Biyem-Assi South-West and Elig Efffa West
Tchomcheni AJ*, Kenfack Voukeng SN, Tumenta PF, Amougou Manga LF and Ghogue JP
ABSTRACT
In Cameroonian cities, urban trees play a vital role in the well-being of residents but face increasing pressure from urbanization. Effective reforestation should prioritize species with high carbon sequestration potential and strong social acceptance. This study, conducted in Biyem-Assi South-West and Elig-Effa West within the Yaoundé 6 municipality, assesses tree species diversity and carbon stock in urban areas. Floristic inventories were carried out using systematic surveys and quadrats, identifying 234 woody individuals across 20 species and 14 families, with Mangifera indica being the most dominant. Diversity indices (Shannon (2.65), Pielou (0.86), and Simpson (0.89)) indicate moderate diversity, with a relatively balanced distribution but dominance by a few species. Carbon stock, estimated through allometric equations, reached 16.08 tC over 68.9 ha in Elig-Effa (0.2334 tC/ha) and 20.10 tC over 69 ha in Biyem-Assi (0.2792 tC/ha). Most species are fruit trees, though the forest species Alstonia boonei is also well tolerated. The low levels of sequestered carbon are attributed to the limited tree density. This study offers strategic guidance for urban reforestation in Cameroon by identifying species best suited to local ecological and social conditions.
