The Role of Botanical Gardens in the Conservation of Ethiopia’s Plant Diversity: A Case Study of GBG, SBG, and DUBEG

Botanical gardens serve as crucial ex-situ conservation sites, safeguarding plant diversity while supporting research, education, and sustainable development. This study evaluates the taxonomic diversity, species richness, conservation status, and ethnobotanical significance of plants in three major Ethiopian botanical gardens: Gullele Botanical Garden (GBG), Dilla University Botanical and Ecotourism Garden (DUBEG), and Shashemene Botanical Garden (SBG). A total of 1,355 plant species were recorded, representing 4 classes, 44 orders, 229 families, and 699 genera, with Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Poaceae, and Lamiaceae being the most diverse families. Species richness analysis revealed GBG harbored the highest diversity (928 species), followed by DUBEG (533 species) and SBG (221 species). Beta diversity analysis indicated moderate species turnover (β = 2.42), with each garden hosting unique plant assemblages. The study further assessed the conservation status of species, revealing that 10 species were threatened, including 2 critically endangered species (Commiphora monoica and Euphorbia burger) recorded exclusively at GBG. Invasive and weedy species were also documented, with DUBEG harboring the highest number of invasive plants (10), followed by GBG (6) and SBG (5). Additionally, the ethnobotanical analysis indicated that botanical gardens house a wide range of plants with medicinal, fuel, timber, ornamental, and agroforestry uses, underscoring their importance in traditional and economic practices. These findings highlight the critical role of botanical gardens in plant conservation and biodiversity management. However, challenges such as limited resources, invasive species, and the need for enhanced collaboration must be addressed. Strengthening ex-situ conservation strategies, increasing research efforts, and integrating botanical gardens into national biodiversity conservation policies are recommended to enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of these conservation centers.