Trees Diversity and Species with High Ecological Importance for a Resilient Urban Area: Evidence from Cotonou City (West Africa)

Rapid urbanization and climate change effects may cause dramatic changes in ecosystem functions cities, thereby inevitably affecting the growth performance of old trees. Few studies have explored species diversity spatial differentiation Benin urban areas. This study aims to explore this dimension ecology order build resilience city Cotonou. Its objective was determine predominant level tree city’s land use units. The green frame subdivided into six units, namely, establishments, residences, spaces, commercial areas, administrative roads. forest inventories were carried out 149 plots with surfaces evaluated at 2500 m2 each. IVI, an index that highlights relative density, dominance, frequency species, has been used characterize place occupied by each relation all ecosystems. shows ecological importance through quality ecosystems, communities, species. A total 62 55 genera 27 families recorded. results show flora Cotonou is characterized a strong preponderance exotic some differences presence. most abundant high (IVI) different types are Terminalia catappa (IVI = 121.47%), mantaly 90.50%), Mangifera indica 64.06%), Khaya senegalensis 151.16%). As services recommended tackle hazards, direct development vegetation could improve life hazards provision services, potential infrastructure foundations, nature-based solutions.