Carbon sequestration potentials of selected tree species in University of Maiduguri campus, Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

This study evaluated the carbon and carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration potential of three species (Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Khaya senegalensis, and Syzygium cumini) at the University of Maiduguri Campus, using systematic random sampling across six transects. Data were collected using non-destructive methods to estimate biomass accumulation and carbon sequestration. Data on diameter, stem height, and age were compared with ANOVA. The annual CO₂ sequestration was correlated with DBH, height, and age. Results revealed significant interspecies variation: Khaya senegalensis sequestered the most carbon (359.69 kg) and CO₂ (1318.70 kg), whereas Syzygium cumini sequestered 94.54kg of carbon and 34.66 kg of CO₂/year as against Eucalyptus camaldulensis, which captured 161.70 kg of carbon and 16.94 kg of CO₂/year. Correlation analysis showed diameter as the strongest predictor of biomass and carbon sequestration, followed by stem height; tree age exhibited no consistent relationship. These findings highlight the critical role of species selection and structural traits in optimizing carbon capture while positioning Khaya senegalensis as a key species for climate mitigation in semi-arid regions. Further investigation into age-related sequestration dynamics is recommended to enhance long-term agroforestry strategies.