ANTICIPATED PERFORMANCE INDEX OF URBAN TREE SPECIES IN MAKURDI, NIGERIA

Abstract

The study investigated the anticipated performance index of urban tree 
species in Makurdi, Nigeria. The objectives were to determine the air 
pollution tolerance and anticipated performance indices. Multistage and 
purposive sampling methods were used to select five (5) plots measuring 
400 m × 30 m. All the individual trees within the sampled plots were 
identified and counted. A 30% sample intensity was purposively used to 
select six (6) tree species that were most frequently found. Fresh mature 
leaves were randomly picked in triplicates from each tree species and 
transported to the laboratory for analysis. The APTI and API values were 
calculated by the application of quantitative parameters of biochemical 
analysis. Descriptive statistics (percentage, frequency, bar chart) and 
inferential statistics (correlation) were also used to analyze the data. The 
results showed that Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale were 
considered to have high levels of all biochemical concentrations. Similarly, 
Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale were found to have the highest APTI and API values. This implies that these species were sensitive to air pollution. Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale showed good API 
gradation, in contrast to poor performance recorded by Albizia lebbeck, 
Polyalthia longifolia, Eleais guineensis, and Delonix regia. The findings of this study conclude that Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale are better suited for urban settings compared to other species in the study area. Therefore, concerned stakeholders should ensure that these species are planted and managed around settlements, routes, and other urban 
landscapes of Makurdi city.