Floristic Composition and Vegetation Analysis in Dinder National Park, Southeastern Sudan

Background and Objective: The scientific documentation of qualitative weed vegetation characteristics within a National park provides essential baseline data for informing conservation strategies and shaping biodiversity management policies. The present study aimed to investigate the floristic composition and quantitative analysis of the vegetation structure and distribution of the plant community in Dinder National Park, Southeastern Sudan. Materials and Methods: This study presents one of the most comprehensive qualitative and quantitative vegetation analyses conducted in the Dinder National Park, Southeastern Sudan. A random sampling technique was carried out to document the presence of plant species across the studied area and ecological community analysis to assess the structural and functional attributes of the ecosystem. Results: The relative frequencies (percentages) of each vegetation category were calculated by using mathematics (numerical analysis). A total of 72 (54% annuals and 46% perennials) weed plant species, distributed across 55 genera and 22 families, were recorded in the study area. The largest family was Poaceae (13 species), followed by Amaranthaceae (9 species). The other notable families included Asteraceae (6 species), Solanaceae, Fabaceae and Malvaceae (5 species each). Species distribution was nearly 60% of species belonging to just 6 families and 8 (36%) families being represented by only a single species. Therophytes were the most prevailing life forms (nearly 56%). Chronological analysis revealed that the Mediterranean (39 species) and Irano-Turanian (34 species) from the major components of the floristic structure. Cyperus giganteus, Sorghum sudanensis and Xanthium brasilicumappear to be the dominant species based on high values for IVI, density and cover. According to diversity indices, the natural forests of the area exhibited the highest values for Shannon’s and Simpson’s indices, indicating a rich and diverse ecosystem. Conclusion: The weed composition and diversity in Dinder National Park reflect the broader ecological dynamics of the region. Understanding these aspects is essential for effective Park management and conservation strategies.