article · Trends in Biological Sciences
An assessment of palm trees belonging to the Arecaceae family investigated their taxonomic diversity and interactions with epiphyte species across two locations at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University in Makurdi, Nigeria. Using non-destructive sampling across measured transect plots, qualitative and quantitative macromorphological traits of foliage and flowers were recorded alongside carbon storage and density metrics. The findings show that Elaeis guineensis was the most dominant and richest palm species observed, whilst Cocos nucifera displayed the highest diversity index. Assessments of inter-specific interactions indicated that epiphytic plants primarily favoured Elaeis guineensis as a host, with Polysticlium munitum identified as the most dominant, diverse, and richest epiphyte present. In addition, phylogenetic evaluations highlighted close relationships between Cocos nucifera, Elaeis guineensis, and Cycas revoluta, clarifying ecological dynamics and host relationships within the local palm ecosystem.
Palm trees are central to both human nutrition and environmental sustainability. Understanding which palm varieties support diverse epiphyte communities and store carbon helps land managers and conservationists protect local biodiversity. Clarifying how specific palms act as vital host species provides empirical ecological baseline data for managing botanical diversity, maintaining forest health, and supporting stable habitats across tropical ecosystems.
This early-stage ecological research provides baseline data on palm species distribution, carbon storage, and epiphyte host dynamics. While it could inform sustainable agroforestry practices, environmental monitoring programmes, or conservation planning conducted by forestry managers and agricultural planners, the abstract does not indicate a direct pathway to commercialisation or immediate product development.
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Background and Objective: Palm trees are most significant in the nutrition and ecological sustainability of man.This study aimed to evaluate the significance of taxonomic diversity and species interactions (epiphytes) among members of the Arecaceae family.Materials and Methods: Two study locations (South-Core and North-Core) at Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria, were considered.A simple random sampling technique based on standard procedures for ecological and taxonomic assessments was employed.A transect distance of 100 by 100 m was measured in five plots in each of the study locations following the utilization of a non-destructive method of harvest.Studied species displayed varied foliar and floral macromorphological characteristics, which were qualitatively and quantitatively measured.Results: Elaeis guineensis was the most dominant (Simpson, 0.43), and richest (Magalef, 28.84) species evaluated.Cocos nucifera was the most diverse (Shannon-Weiner, 0.37) in both locations.Also, inter-specific interactions evaluated suggested most epiphytes preferred Elaeis guineensis.The most dominant, diverse, and richest epiphyte in this study was Polysticlium munitum.Analysis for carbon storage and species density showcased the ecology of species.Phylogenetic relationship revealed Cocos nucifera, Elaeis guineensis, and Cycas revoluta are closely related.Conclusion: The ecological and taxonomic significance of palm species is negligible but of great impact on the ecosystem.
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DOI: 10.21124/tbs.2025.227.248
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