Analysis of Diversity and Distribution of Tree Species in Urban Landscape: A Case Study of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, India

Urbanization significantly alters ecological dynamics, often compromising biodiversity and essential ecosystem services. Urban green spaces, particularly tree cover, play a pivotal role in mitigating the negative impacts of urban expansion by improving air quality, regulating temperature and supporting local biodiversity. This study investigates the diversity, richness and spatial distribution of tree species in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar (formerly known Aurangabad), across 20 sites with total area of 10.84 sq. km surveyed using the line transect method between September and December 2024. Results indicate that urban parks exhibit the highest species richness 36.8 species average, while dumping sites had the lowest 9 species average. Nehru udyan recorded the highest tree diversity H' = 3.29, followed by Himayat bagh and Siddharth garden. Whereas, Naregaon dumpsite showed the lowest tree diversity H' = 0.81. High species evenness was observed in Sawangi lake 0.9316, while Walmi lake recorded the lowest. Azadirachta indica and Cassia fistula were the most dominant species across all locations. The study highlights the need for habitat specific conservation efforts, particularly in ecologically degraded sites aimed at enhancing green cover and promoting sustainable urban ecosystem in the city.