Epiphyte diversity on phorophytes in Ambrose Alli University main campus, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed epiphyte diversity on phorophytes across seven faculties at Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria. Data collected included phorophyte species, individual counts, height, diameter at breast height (dbh), types and quantities of epiphytes,  growth habits and attachment locations. Eight epiphyte species from six families were identified, showcasing significant ecological  diversity. The Faculty of Environmental Sciences exhibited the highest diversity (Simpson 1-D = 1; H = 1.1), followed by Engineering  (Simpson 1-D = 0.68; H = 1.13) and Management Sciences (Simpson 1-D = 0.6; H = 0.69). The Faculty of Agriculture displayed moderate  diversity, while the Faculties of Physical and Life Sciences showed no diversity. Species richness was highest in Faculty of Law (five  species) and lowest in Physical Sciences (one species). Families Polypodiaceae, Moraceae and Polytrichaceae were the most prominent,  reflecting adaptability to campus microhabitats. Ficus aurea (Moraceae) was abundant in a single faculty, while Platycerium bifurcatum  and Polytrichum commune were prevalent across multiple faculties. Epiphytes were classified as non-stranglers or stranglers, with stranglers like Ficus audrey potentially overtaking hosts. This research underscores the ecological role of epiphytes in urban  environments and highlights the importance of conservation strategies to maintain biodiversity on university campuses.