The species composition, diversity and regeneration status of Alamata woodlands, Tigray Regional State Northern Ethiopia–a descriptive analysis

Abstract

Woody species composition, diversity and regeneration of Alamata woodland forest were evaluated and sampled using systematic random sampling techniques. Fifteen temporary sample plots of 20m x 20m (400 m2) each were established in the sampled woodland forest along altitudinal gradients 100m along plots. Three subplots, 5m x 5m were situated diagonally inside the 20m*20m one in the centre and edges for saplings, shrubs and seedlings data collection. Diameter at breast height (DBH) (cm) and height (m) were measured using a diameter tape and Haglöf Vertex IV Hypsometer. Woody species diversity, structure, important value index (IVI) and regeneration analyzed using appropriate formulas. Four tree species were found in the studied woodland forest. Most abundant tree species were Acacia seyal, Acacia etabaica and Balanites aegyptica, while the least abundant tree species was: - Acacia tortilis. The basal area (m2 ha-1) per plot basis (20m*20m) was ranged from 1.38 to 13.62, while the basal area for the sampled trees was ranged from 2.41 to 9.25. The volume for the sampled plots and trees were ranged from 5.91 to 46.11 and 10.58 to 41.25 m3 ha-1. The highest number of stems was recorded for Acacia seyal followed by Acacia etbaica. The lowest number of stems 43 N ha-1 were recorded for Acacia tortilis followed by Balanites aegyptica. The overall population distribution pattern of the targeted forest exhibited an inverted J - shaped distribution. Among the four sampled woody species in Alamata dry woodland forest regeneration was recorded for only two species Acacia etbaica and Balanites aegyptiaca, while others had no regeneration potential of seedlings and saplings. Better attention of development practitioners, policy makers and church communities may help to improve the woody species composition of this woodland forest and conservation role of Ethiopian dry woodland for carbon sequestration.