Article (Scientific journals)
Exploring Floristic Diversity, Propagation Patterns, and Plant Functions in Domestic Gardens across Urban Planning Gradient in Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Useni Sikuzani, Yannick; Kisangani Kalonda, Bernard; Mpanda Mukenza, Médard et al.
2024In Ecologies, 5 (4), p. 512 - 537
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Keywords :
domestic gardens; ecological imbalance; exotic species; plant diversity; socio-economic impact; urbanization; Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics; Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology (miscellaneous); Ecology
Abstract :
[en] Urbanization degrades natural habitats and creates new urban ecosystems like domestic gardens. The plant composition of these gardens varies with socio-economic factors and urban planning levels. However, the diversity and impact of introduced species are often poorly assessed, causing potential ecological imbalances (disruptions in the natural functioning and stability of ecosystems), particularly in Lubumbashi (DR Congo). The objective was to analyze the spatial structure, plant diversity, propagation strategies, and ecological functions of domestic gardens. Three distinct neighborhoods were selected: a planned, unplanned, and residential neighborhood. Twenty avenues (with five plots per avenue) were chosen to represent the diversity within each neighborhood, and stratified random sampling of plots was conducted to analyze gardening practices. Gardens were classified into types, and their vegetation was evaluated based on species origin and ecological impact. The analysis of domestic gardens in Lubumbashi reveals significant variations across different neighborhood types. Residential neighborhoods exhibit larger average garden sizes (315.1 m2), higher species richness (22 species), and larger plot sizes (1032 m2) compared to unplanned and planned neighborhoods, where garden areas and species richness are notably lower. Rectangular gardens dominate in unplanned areas, while planned neighborhoods feature more intentional landscaping elements, such as flowerbeds and hedges. The use of gardens for food production is prominent in planned areas (40.7%), whereas residential neighborhoods prioritize ornamentation (51.4%). The study identified 232 taxa across 68 families, with a predominance of exotic species (80%) in all neighborhoods, particularly in unplanned areas (82.25%). The data revealed that Mangifera indica and Persea americana are abundant in all neighborhoods, illustrating their adaptability to different urban contexts. Herbaceous species are most common, followed by woody plants, with vines being sparse. Species dispersal is primarily driven by human activities (anthropochory), accounting for over 85% in all neighborhoods. These findings highlight the strong human influence on the composition and structure of domestic gardens in Lubumbashi, emphasizing the dominance of exotic species and the importance of anthropogenic factors in shaping urban green spaces. Urban policies should incorporate strategies to minimize the negative impacts of exotic species on native flora.
Disciplines :
Environmental sciences & ecology
Author, co-author :
Useni Sikuzani, Yannick ;  Ecology, Ecological Restoration and Landscape Unit, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic Congo
Kisangani Kalonda, Bernard;  Laboratory of Biofortification, Defense, and Crop Valorization, Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic Congo
Mpanda Mukenza, Médard  ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech > Form. doct. sc. agro. & ingé. biol. (paysage) ; Department of Renewable Natural Resources Management, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, Katumba Mwanke University of Technology, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic Congo
Yona Mleci, Jonas;  Ecology, Ecological Restoration and Landscape Unit, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic Congo
Mpibwe Kalenga, Alex;  Ecology, Ecological Restoration and Landscape Unit, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic Congo
Malaisse, François  ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département GxABT > Biodiversité, Ecosystème et Paysage (BEP)
Bogaert, Jan  ;  Université de Liège - ULiège > Département GxABT > Biodiversité, Ecosystème et Paysage (BEP)
Language :
English
Title :
Exploring Floristic Diversity, Propagation Patterns, and Plant Functions in Domestic Gardens across Urban Planning Gradient in Lubumbashi, DR Congo
Publication date :
December 2024
Journal title :
Ecologies
eISSN :
2673-4133
Publisher :
MDPI
Volume :
5
Issue :
4
Pages :
512 - 537
Peer reviewed :
Peer Reviewed verified by ORBi
Funders :
ARES CCD - Academy for Research and Higher Education. Development Cooperation Committee
Funding text :
This work is supported by the Academy for Research and Higher Education, Commission for Development Cooperation-CONV-21-519 (Belgium).
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