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Ethiopian Journal of Biodiversity - EthJBD
Vol 1 - No 1
The main objective of this study was to assess the conservation status of Boginda forest and identify the endangered woody plant species for recommending appropriate genetic conservation approaches in the area. Systematic sampling was employed with a total of three parallel transects. A total of 29 sample quadrats were established and duly investigated. These sample quadrats were distributed within specified location fixed at regular intervals of 50m drop of altitude. The stand structure was enumerated in the 10x50m quadrats. All woody species were recorded and analysed. In setting the priority rank, the Important Value Index (IVI), population structure of species and regeneration status criteria were considered. Using these criteria, the woody species Canthium oligocarpum, Cassipourea malosana, Ficus exasperate and Schefflera volkensi were found to be the top priorities to be considered for conservation. Boginda forest was also found to be highly threatened by human pressure and needs attention for its conservation and sustainable utilization. From this research, an easy and manageable woody species prioritization and conservation approach is presented for threatened forests.
Keywords: Boginda Forest; Density; Floristic; Frequency; Important Value Index.
The study was conducted in Shashemenne-Munessa Natural Forest in West Arsi Zone, Oromia Regional National State. It was to determine floristic composition, population structure and regeneration status of indigenous woody species. Data was collected in 2003 from 33 sample plots of 500 m2 established at every 50 m drop in altitude for sloppy or at 200m interval for flat terrain. All woody species rooted within the sample plots were recorded and their Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) was measured for each. A total of 97 woody species belonging to 44 families and 76 genera were identified. Based on species richness, Fabaceae, Moraceae and Celastraceae were the most important families. The most diverse genera were Ficus, Maytenus, and Acacia. The total tree/shrub density was 446 per hectare with a total dominance of 57.3 m2ha-1. Species with lower Importance Value Index and therefore, that need high conservation attention included Pittosporum viridiflorum, Pavetta sp, Discopodium penninervium, Rhus natalensis, Hypericum revolutum, Ehretia abyssinica, Rhus ruspolii, Apodytes dimidiata, Juniperus procera, Strychnos henningsii, Vepris dainellii and Phoenix reclinata. Woody species with bad reproduction and recruitment were Podocarpus [alcatus, Mimusops kummel, Ficus sycomorus, Cordia africana, Prunus africana, Chionanthus mildbraedii and Ficus sur. These species should be given priority both in planning and implementation of conservation activities. It was concluded that there is a high need to conserve those identified priority species using both in situ and ex situ conservation methods.
Keywords: Density, Importance value index, Species diversity, Regeneration.
A study on woody species composition and structure was conducted in Arba Minch Riverine Forest. The objective was to investigate the floristic composition, structure, regeneration status and prioritize the threatened woody species for conservation. Sixty two sample plots, each measuring 50 m by 10 m were laid in an interval of a 100 m horizontal distance. Ninety six species were identified. Diameter and height were measured for all trees and shrubs having a diameter at breast height above 2.5 cm. The analysis of vertical structure using IUFRO classification scheme revealed that highest density of individuals and high number of species was found in the lower layer. Ecologically important and dominant species were identified based on basal area, m2.ha-1 and IVI values independently and the two parameters showed 80% correlation for the first 10 dominant species. The current conservation status of each species was evaluated using general criteria, combining: Importance Value Index (IVI), population structure of species (based on stand diameter and height profiles) and regeneration status. A total of thirty two species were identified as threatened and hence, recommended for in situ conservation.
Keywords: Basal Area, Conservation, Important Value Index, Population structure status, Priority species regeneration.