Abstract :
A microhabitat distribution of Allamanda cathartica Linn and Pandiaka involucrata (Moq.) Jackson was studied. The plants belong to the families Apocynaceae and Amaranthaceae, respectively. This study was carried out in Uyo municipality, Akwa Ibom State. At each site random sampling method was used in sampling the vegetation within 2m x 2m quadrates and the vegetation components were enumerated and identified to species level. One soil samples was collected from each quadrant to the depth of 20cm using the soil auger. Thus, a total of 20 soil samples were taken and analyzed for soil properties. Results showed that 32 plant species were indentified in the vegetation containing Allamanda cathartica and Pandiaka involucrata both species had 100% frequency. Their densities were 3.6 ± 0.34 and
10.0 + 1.71 stems/ha2, respectively height, crown cover. The soils where these plants grew were strongly acidic with low organic carbon content, high phosphorus and iron content. The soils were sandy loam in nature. The soils had sand particles ranking highest (75.20 ± 1.96 and 75.74 ± 2.63%), followed by clay (13.66 ± 1.96 and 10.40 ± 0.45%) and silt texture being sandy loam. Regression analysis between Allamanda cathartica Linn and Pandiaka involucrata, and soil properties revealed that edaphic factors had minor effect on the growth and distribution of these plant species. This showed that Allamanda cathartica Linn and Pandiaka involucrata are not randomly distributed but found in specific areas of soil rich in iron (Fe), Manganese (Mn) and Phosphorus contents.
Keyword :
Akwa Ibom State, Allamanda cathartica, Microhabitat, Pandiaka involucrate.