Structure, Reproductive Biology, and Regeneration Status of Podocarpus falcatus (Thunb.) R. B. ex Mirb. In Bale Mountains, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

This study was carried out in the Dodola forest, Southern Ethiopia, to investigate the structure, reproductive biology, and regeneration status of Podocarpus falcatus. Based on their disturbance status, two blocks each having an area of 16 ha (400 m × 400 m) were laid in the forest to collect vegetation data. 16 plots (100 m × 100 m) and 256 subplots (25 m × 25 m) were established in each block. The population status of Podocarpus falcatus (dbh ≥ 5 cm) was assessed in the 256 subplots. The regeneration status of Podocarpus falcatus was also assessed around 40 randomly selected female trees isolated at least 10 m from any other female tree in each block. A total of 1363 Podocarpus falcatus individuals were recorded, with an average distribution of 43 individuals ha-1 and a higher proportion of small-sized individuals. The population structures of Podocarpus falcatus in the two blocks were a typical inverted J-shape pattern, indicating good regeneration and recruitment status of the study species. Podocarpus falcatus had a good regeneration status in Dodola forest and also larger quantities of its seedlings were recorded under canopy shades suggesting that the species is shade tolerant. The density of seedlings and saplings was small within 4 m radius from the seed source (female trees) compared to that observed greater than 4 m distance. Thus, poor regeneration is observed within a 4 m radius around the female trees compared to distances greater than 4 m. Therefore, the local community and other responsible stakeholders should work together to stop and/or reduce the selective cutting of this ecologically and economically important tree species in the forest.