Toward Healthy Urban Streets: Richness of Roadside Tree Species in Industrial Area of Shah Alam, Selangor

Abstract

Roadside trees are distinct component of urban forests, providing benefits to reduce radiation heat and air pollution. However, urban settlements due to overpopulation might affect the abundance of roadside trees. Hence, this study was conducted to assess the species richness and diversity of roadside trees in Shah Alam. All trees with 1-metre height and above in Section 15 and 16 were measured and identified as referred to the Landscape Department of Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) computerised database. The data was analysed for their taxonomic composition and species diversity. A total of 5,523 trees were recorded where 4,087 trees in Section 15 and 1,426 trees in Section 16. Fabaceae was the most dominant family in both sections where their three leading species such as Peltophorum pterocarpum, Pterocarpus indicus, Roystonea regia accounted for 14.7% of the planted trees. Section 15 was relatively higher in taxonomic composition with 11 families and 25 species than Section 16, with 8 families and 18 species. The values for Species Diversity Index are considered high in both sections with 8.37 despite the environmental impact from the industrial activities. Thus, it is suggested that future research should include the potential risks of biodiversity loss for proper management practices in urban settings.