By: Adegoke M. O.; Onyekwelu J. C.; OKUNLOLA A. B.;
Abstract:
Urban trees are essential in modifying local climate and improving environmental quality. This study evaluated the influence of selected tree species on micro-climatic conditions at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Nigeria. Four tree species—Delonix regia, Gmelina arborea, Terminalia catappa, and Terminalia mantaly were assessed for their effects on temperature, and relative humidity. Tree growth characteristics data (diameter, crown width, and height) were taken from four individual trees of each species while climatic variable measurements (temperature and relative humidity) were made at varying distances from each individual trees and different times of day. Climatic variable mmeasurements were made at three positions from the tree (under the crown, crown edge, and 3 meters away from the crown) and four times of the day (9 am, 12 pm, 3 pm, and 6 pm) for 21 days. Results revealed significant micro-climatic differences between tree species. T. mantaly recorded the lowest temperature (30.03°C) and highest relative humidity (75.81%), followed by T. catappa, D. regia, and G. arborea, the control has the highest temperature (30.97°C) and lowest relative humidity (72.62%). The temperature was cooler under tree canopies (mean: 29.43°C) and increased as one moves away from the canopy (mean: 31.08°C). Relative humidity showed an inverse trend, peaking under the canopy (mean: 75.76%) and decreasing as one move away from the canopy (mean: 72.3%). This study gives an insight into the importance of urban trees in reducing heat and improving climate resilience.
Keywords: Avenue trees; Microclimate; Relative humidity; Temperature regulation; Tree canopy
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