Changes in the Spatial Pattern and Ecological Functionalities of Green Spaces in Lubumbashi (the Democratic Republic of Congo) in Relation With the Degree of Urbanization

• DOI: 10.1177/1940082918771325
• Publication Date: 2018-05-04T07:12:58Z
• Authors: Yannick Useni Sik...; Raoul Sambiéni Ko...; Justine Maréchal; Edouard Ilunga wa...; François Malaisse; Jan Bogaert; François Munyemba...
• Keywords: 11. Sustainability; 15. Life on land; 01 natural sciences; 0105 earth and related environmental sciences

An accurate description of spatial urban growth is a prerequisite step in order to implement appropriated policies improve the ecosystem service performance green spaces city. Such information is, however, absent Lubumbashi, second metropolis Democratic Republic Congo, despite its high demographic rate and an unplanned growth. This study was designed characterize pattern extent changes driven by urbanization along urban–rural gradient using combination landscape metrics floristic plots. Our results revealed that number patches directly proportional degree city, whereas area index largest patch showed inverse relationship with degree. Urban were dominated attached roadside are more equipped present higher occurrence cultivated plants. By contrast, peri-urban characterized buffer zones, fields, abandoned areas, informal spaces, elevated proportion invasive species natural vegetation. Moreover, it found exotic increased urbanization, reaching values considered threat indigenous flora. The current underline need for urgent measures oriented both toward increasing connectivity between (e.g., creating new planted species) while reducing spread