Angiosperm flora of Federal University Oye-Ekiti, Oye Campus – A preliminary checklist

Abstract

This study investigated and documented the diversity of angiosperms found within the main campus of Federal University, Oye-Ekiti, Nigeria. Given the numerous and continuous threat to species availability through infrastructural development, the study was aimed at preparing a checklist of all plant species existing within the campus prior to complete development of the University area. Species enumeration was carried out using conventional methods as described by authors of related studies. A total of 150 species distributed in 47 families and 112 genera was recorded, comprising herbs, creepers, climbers, geophytes, lianas, shrubs and trees. The shrubs dominated the list, with a total of fifty-five species (36.7%). The families Euphorbiaceae and Asteraceae were the most represented with 10.7% and 9.3% occurrence, followed by Fabaceae (Papilionoideae) with 7.3% (11 species). Twenty-one (21) families were represented with 1 species each, an indication of their importance in ecosystem balancing and habitat restoration. With the current pace of infrastructural development within the University Campus, we suggest the immediate establishment of arboretum or botanical garden for ex-situ conservation of the plant genetic resources within the study area.