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Proceedings of the International Academy of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, 2023, 13(1): 44-65
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Article

Investigating the floristic structure and composition of woodland forests in Godebe National Park, northwestern highlands of Ethiopia

Muhabaw Taju1, Adamsew Marelign1, Derbabaw Fentie1, Asmamaw Alemu1, Ebrahim Esa2
1College of Agriculture and Environmental Science, University of Gondar, Ethiopia
2College of Social Science, University of Gondar, Ethiopia

Received 5 November 2022;Accepted 15 December 2022;Published online 25 January 2023;Published 1 March 2023
IAEES

Abstract
Ethiopia is endowed with diversity of flora and fauna associated with its diverse topographical and climatic features. Protected areas have a great potential in preserving important flora and fauna resources. This study was conducted in Godebe National Park which is located in the dry lands of northwestern Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to investigate the woody species composition, diversity structure and regeneration status of Godebe National Park forest. Systematic random sampling technique was used to collect data following six line transects which were laid along vegetation types. The vegetation data were collected from 44 square plots each with a size of 400 m2 (20 m ¡Á 20 m) for tree/shrub while subplots of size 100 m2 (10 m ¡Á 10 m) and 25 m2 (5 m ¡Á 5 m) for sapling and seedling respectively, were established in the main plots. Individual tree and shrub diameter at breast height (DBH) ¡Ý 2.5 cm and height ¡Ý 2 m were measured using caliper and hypsometer, respectively. DBH, frequency, density, and basal area were used for vegetation structure description while the density of mature trees, sapling, and seedling was used for analysis of regeneration. Microsoft Excel spread sheet programme and Shannon diversity and evenness indexes were used to analyze the vegetation data. Result revealed thata total of 59 woody species were identified; the total basal area and density of woody species were 47.16 m2/ha and 6237 stems/ha, respectively. The structure of the study forest shows an inverted 'J' shape pattern which is an indication of its healthiness. The regeneration status of the study forest has also showed high regeneration capacity having higher density of seedlings and saplings than matured trees. Therefore, owing to strong potential of the park in terms of biodiversity conservation and tourism; preparation of management plan and promotion are needed; thereby sustainable park management can be ensured.

Keywords DBH;IVI;basal area;Godebe;diversity;structure;regeneration capacity;sustainable park management.


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