Woody species diversity, structure, and regeneration status of Gole Community Managed Forest, Gamo Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

Forests are critical for maintaining biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and supporting local livelihoods. The Gole Community Managed Forest (GCMF) in the Kamba district of the Gamo Zone, southwest Ethiopia, plays a crucial role for ecological health and the community vague. However, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding the floristic composition, species diversity, and structural characteristics of this forest, necessitating comprehensive study. This research aimed to inventory and classifies woody species within the GCMF, assess their structural attributes, analyze species diversity, and evaluate the regeneration status of the species to inform sustainable management practices. A systematic grid sampling method was utilized within a nested plot design across 765 hectares of the forest. Diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height, frequency, and density data were collected for all woody species. A total of 47 plots were established to record and document the plant species. Relevant ecological parameters were assessed using established indices including the Shannon-Wiener diversity Index and Importance Value Index (IVI).  Quantitative analyses were subsequently conducted with SPSS version 25.0 statistical software The study identified 52 woody species across 46 genera and 39 families, with Euphorbiaceae and Celasteraceae being the most dominant families. A total basal area of 168.15 m²/ ha was recorded. The regeneration analysis revealed a promising status with a high density of seedlings (17,622/ha) and saplings (4,127/ha) compared to mature trees (385/ha), indicative of robust regeneration potential. The GCMF demonstrates high floral species richness, a well-structured vegetation profile (seedlings, saplings, and mature trees), and strong natural regeneration capacity, indicating a relatively stable and resilient forest ecosystem. However, the forest is increasingly threatened by anthropogenic pressures such as agricultural expansion, fuel-wood collection, illegal logging, and grazing, which are accelerating deforestation and degrading habitat quality. The findings underscore the importance of implementing effective and community-oriented management strategies to ensure the sustainable utilization and preservation of forest resources.

Keywords: Biodiversity; Importance value index; Species regeneration dynamics