SPECIES COMPOSITION AND TREE HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF ORNAMENTAL PALMS IN NIFOR PALMETUM

This study assessed the species composition, health status, and anthropogenic disturbances of ornamental palms in NIFOR Palmetum, Nigeria, using standard techniques. The survey of 231 individual trees from 22 genera and 26 species revealed a concerning trend of low species diversity, termite infestation, and anthropogenic damage, posing significant threats to the palms' survival. The most common species were Elaeis guineensis, Caryota mitis, Borassus flabellifer, and Livistona rotunidifolia, while Carpentaria acuminata, Phoenix acaulis, and Prtichardia pacifica were represented by only one tree each. Health status assessment showed that 34.8% of species were in good health, while 53.8% were in poor health, raising concerns for ecosystem sustainability. Termite damage affected 80.0% of species, particularly Elaeis guineensis and Caryota mitis, while 29.7% were impacted by anthropogenic damage, with Borassus flabellifer showing the highest damage. This study highlights the need for effective conservation and management strategies to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Palmetum, especially during its ongoing rehabilitation.