rbcL-based dataset on intra-specific diversity and conservation of Adansonia digitata L. (Malvaceae) in the savannah belt of Nigeria

Abstract

The African baobab species belong to the family Malvaceae and the genus Adansonia. The disjointed tree thrives in arid or semi-arid regions, is native to the thorn woodlands of Africa, along tracks, and is associated with human-populated forest areas. It is considered indigenous to Central and West Africa and has been introduced to the Arabian Peninsula, South-East Asia, the Indian sub-continent, and the Caribbeans. Adansonia digitata is a multifunctional tree with a long lifespan of over 1000 years old. The leaves, roots, flowers, fruit pulp, seeds and barks are used for food, medicine, or other ethnic-practices. The utilisation level and distribution are significantly undermined by climate change and poor use practices. The data set offers insight into the distribution pattern and genetic diversity of Adansonia digitata across the savannah belt of Nigeria using the rbcL gene.

Keywords

• Adansonia digitata
• Baobab
• Genetic diversity
• Evolution
• Conservation
• Phylogeny