Floristic, Structure, and Regeneration of Woody Species in Bola Wanche Forest of Humbo Carbon Project, Wolaita, Ethiopia

Abstract BackgroundThe forest resources of the Humbo Carbon Project have ecological and environmental problems such as soil degradation, soil erosion and alteration of natural resources are some of the negative effects resulting from the destruction of forests Our present study was carried out to investigate regeneration status and dynamics of populations of woody species in Bola Wanche forest of Humbo Carbon Project Wolaita zone, Ethiopia. Methods and ResultsThirty-two (20m x 20m) plots were laid at an interval of 100m to collect vegetation data. In each plot, five 1m 2 quadrats were laid to assess regeneration status. DBH (Diameter at Breast Height) of each woody species with DBH ≥2.5cm was measured. Altitude, aspect and slope of each plot were recorded. Among 61 woody species representing 56 genera and 35 families, Syzygium guineense and Dodonaea angustifolia were the most dominant. There was significant difference in the dominance (p < 0.0001) of species between plots. Inverted J-shape and bell-shape population distribution patterns were recognized. The regeneration phase was dominated by D. angustifolia. Only 36% of the species in matured vegetation was represented in seedling phase. Environmental factors considered in this study were not influenced abundance of species and individuals between plots. But when dominant species evaluated separately, altitude had significant influence on abundance of S. guineense and Combretum molle while aspect on C. molle and Terminalia schimperiana. But no factor had influenced abundance of D. angustifolia. ConclusionThe study concluded the abundance and dominance of few families and species, prevalence of small size populations and fair regeneration of forest. This may indicate that the forest is in its early secondary successional stage and need high intention of conservation and management.