Journal of Academic Biology and Biology Education
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): June

Urban Forests as Green Infrastructure: Linking Vegetation Composition, Spatial Distribution, and Environmental Functions

Riska Amanda (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sumatera Barat)
Joumaa Abdulwahab (Idlib University)
Dang Thi Thanh Tam (Vietnam National University of Agriculture)
Darmina Niță (University of Bucharest)



Article Info

Publish Date
02 Jun 2026

Abstract

Purpose of the study: This study aimed to analyze the species composition, vegetation structure, spatial distribution patterns, and ecological functions of urban forest vegetation in supporting environmental quality improvement and sustainable urban development. Methodology: A field survey using a complete census approach was conducted to inventory all tree and pole vegetation. Data collection included species identification, diameter measurement, and GPS coordinate recording. Vegetation structure was analyzed using density, dominance, and Importance Value Index, while spatial distribution patterns were mapped using GIS and ArcGIS 10.1. Ecological functions were evaluated based on carbon sequestration and air pollution mitigation capacities of dominant species. Main Findings: The study recorded 35 vegetation species with 1,389 individuals, consisting of 1,250 trees and 139 poles. Swietenia macrophylla was identified as the dominant species with the highest density and IVI values. Spatial analysis revealed a heterogeneous distribution pattern with high-density clusters dominated by Swietenia macrophylla and Terminalia catappa. Dominant species significantly contributed to ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, pollution reduction, microclimate regulation, and ecosystem stability. Samanea saman, Swietenia macrophylla, and Pometia pinnata were identified as key species supporting environmental quality improvement. Novelty/Originality of this study: This study integrates vegetation inventory, stand structure analysis, ecological importance assessment, and GIS-based spatial distribution mapping within a single framework, providing comprehensive scientific evidence to support sustainable urban forest management, biodiversity conservation, and environmental planning.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

JOUABE

Publisher

Subject

Biochemistry, Genetics & Molecular Biology Education Veterinary Other

Description

Focus and scope: Journal of Academic Biology and Biology Education is a double-blind peer-reviewed journal published by Cahaya Ilmu Ilmu Scholar, dedicated to disseminating advances in science and research in the field of biology education both in Indonesia and in the global context in other ...