Abstract:
In a survey of the Bore–Anferara–Wadera forest to study the vegetation structure and
regeneration status of woody plant species, 112 quadrats were systematically sampled along
altitudinal transects to collect vegetation data. Nested sample plots of 30 m × 30 m and 5 m × 5 m
were laid for collecting data on abundance and some variables of tree and shrub size. The
regeneration status of woody species was assessed by counting all seedlings within the main
sample plot. Woody plant species taller than or equal to 3 m were counted and their height and
DBH measured. Density, frequency, basal area and importance value (IV) of woody plant
species were computed. A total of 136 vascular plant species belonging to 119 genera and 63
families were recorded. The overall Shannon—Wiener diversity value was 3.84 and evenness
was 0.78. Total density of trees and shrubs with DBH > 2 cm was 1047 ha−1. Size class
distribution of woody species across different DBH and height classes indicated a relatively high
proportion of individuals at lower classes, suggesting impacts of past anthropogenic
disturbances. Analysis of population structure and regeneration status of the forest revealed
various patterns of population dynamics where some species were represented by only a few
mature plants, suggesting that they are on the verge of local extinction and that immediate
conservation measures should be taken. The results highlight the need for joint management and
conservation measures by the government, local people and other stakeholders to abate the rapid
rate of deforestation and promote sustainable utilization of the forest resources in this forest in
southern Ethiopia.
