Role of Urban Zoological Park in Woody Species Conservation and Carbon Sequestration: Insight from Funaab Zoo Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria

Abstract

This study determines the role of FUNAAB zoo park Abeokuta, Ogun State in tree biodiversity conservation and carbon sequestration of Abeokuta city in Nigeria. A systematic sampling approach was used and the tree biodiversity inventory was conducted. Accordingly, the study identified 30 plant species and 15 families with Fabaceae as the dominant family (6 species).  Shannon diversity index (H) was 3.29 and Pielou’s evenness (J’) was 0.97 in the park. There were more native woody species (80%) than exotic (20%) in the park. Tree species were the dominant growth form in the park. Additionally, the trees with a diameter greater than 11 cm had the higher carbon sequestration potential with 1009776 kgCha-1, above-ground biomass of 2456.795 kg and below ground biomass of 272.33 kg. The study proved the role of the zoological park in woody plant conservation and carbon sequestration potential in a city under rapid urbanization and completes the effort of the city managers to determine the City Biodiversity Index. Consequently, the management of FUNAAB Zoo Park should consider native woody plants conservation and big size trees.