Tree diversity and carbon stock in University campuses in Sudan: a case study of the University of Khartoum’s Shambat campus

Abstract

This study examines tree species diversity, biomass, and carbon sequestration potential at the University of Khartoum – Shambat Campus (UKSC) in Khartoum, Sudan. A thorough inventory of trees was conducted, measuring and recording every tree on the campus. The collected data were then utilised to calculate species richness, Diversity Indices (Simpson’s Diversity Index and Shannon Index), Relative Abundance, and carbon potential using allometric equations. A total of 51 species were identified, encompassing 737 individual trees. The most abundant species was Azadirachta indica, which made up 18% of the total population and contributed 1.90 tons to the campus’s overall carbon stock. The total aboveground biomass was estimated at 10.64 m3, with an overall carbon stock of 5.32 tons, which includes both aboveground and belowground biomass. Rare species, such as Ceiba pentandra, despite being limited in number, exhibited significant carbon storage potential on an individual tree basis, highlighting their ecological importance. These findings emphasise the critical role of urban greenspaces in fostering a diverse range of tree species with carbon sequestration capabilities. Conservation strategies should prioritise drought-tolerant species like Azadirachta indica, while also safeguarding rare and native species to maintain functional diversity. This information can inform urban forestry practices and green infrastructure planning, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions.