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Assessment of plant species and biodiversity in SUST Campus—a peri urban area.
* 1 , 1 , 2
1  Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet-3114
2  Bangladesh National Herbarium, Dhaka
Academic Editor: Giovanna Battipaglia

Abstract:

This study provides extensive taxonomic data on the floristic composition and assessment of the biodiversity that exists on the semi-natural Shahjalal University of Science & Technology campus. Using statistical information gathered through surveys carried out over a one-year period, this study presents a thorough analysis of the relationship between stakeholder perceptions of the biodiversity and composition of herbs, shrubs, and climbers on the campus. In total, 55 students, 15 teachers, and 10 staff from the campus took part in the survey. Most respondents are not entirely satisfied with the campus' biodiversity. They value green spaces and see them as critical to the campus' atmosphere as well as to the university's reputation. A total of 181 species under 160 genera and 84 families were identified with the help of Bangladesh National Herbarium. Moreover, the local names of some species were also found by the local people. This study demonstrated that out of 181 plant species, 66% of them were herbaceous, followed by 29% of shrubs and 5% of climbers. Axonopus compressus was the species that was most prevalent on the campus. Asteraceae, which had 18 species, was the most numerous family, followed by Poaceae (17 species) and Leguminosae, which had 13 species. As a result, when compared to other areas, the study area is floristically rich in climbers, shrubs, and herbs due to the sheer quantity of distinct plant species it contains. One globally vulnerable (VU) (Araucaria heterophylla) and one near-threatened (NT) (Platycladus orientalis) shrub were found in this campus area. All species have value in terms of the economy or the environment, but they are mostly used as grasses, weeds, ornamentals, medicinal plants, forage, fodder, and vegetables. By improving the current management and implementing the essential policies and methods, this region might become a superb campus-based center for the protection of biodiversity.

Keywords: biodiversity; taxonomy; semi-urban area

 
 
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