Diversity of Tree Flora in Homegardens in Urban Proximity of Anuradhapura City, Sri Lanka

A comparative analysis of tree flora diversity in homegardens near Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, reveals significant differences between inherited and settled lands. Inherited lands exhibit a higher mean harvestable tree density (54.5 trees/acre) compared to settled lands (40.3 trees/acre), with exotic timber species like Tectona grandis and Berrya cordifolia dominating the latter due to economic incentives. In contrast, inherited lands show greater abundance of multipurpose trees such as Artocarpus heterophyllus, Azadirachta indica, and Mangifera indica, contributing to food security. Cocos nucifera is the most abundant species across both categories, accounting for over 40% of tree populations. The study also highlights potential for carbon crediting programs, offering a dual benefit for forestry and farming under shifting climatic conditions.

Egodawatta, C. (2014). Diversity of Tree Flora in Homegardens in Urban Proximity of Anuradhapura City, Sri Lanka. Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, 3(1), 34. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.aff.20140301.17