Woody Fodder Species Diversity, Their Use, and Preferences in Agropastoral Areas of Gomole District, Borana Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Livestock production in the semiarid regions of Ethiopia is increasingly challenged by recurrent droughts and seasonal forage shortages, particularly during the dry season. Despite these constraints, certain indigenous woody fodder species serve as critical feed resources, supporting agropastoral livelihoods during periods of scarcity. However, there remains a substantial knowledge gap regarding the diversity, availability, and local preferences for these species among agropastoral communities. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the diversity, species preferences, and utilization of woody fodder plants in the Gomole district of Southern Ethiopia. Data were collected through a combination of household surveys, key informant interviews, and field-based vegetation inventory. A total of 328 households and 12 key informants from two kebeles participated in the interviews. For the vegetation survey, 36 plots were systematically placed using purposive sampling to ensure spatial and ecological representativeness. The collected data were analyzed using frequency, the Shannon Wiener index, and pairwise ranking methods. A total of 35 woody fodder species belonging to 17 plant families were documented in the study area. The study recorded a Shannon diversity index of H′ = 3.2 and an evenness value of 0.76. Of the documented species, 19 (54%) were available and utilized as livestock feed during both dry and rainy seasons, while 16 species (46%) were available and utilized only during the rainy season. The research indicated that 22 species were utilized as feed for cattle, while camels and goats consumed all species, with leaves being the most commonly used plant part (91%). Preferred species varied by livestock type: Olea europaea, Pappea capensis, and Phyllanthus leucanthus for cattle; Phyllanthus leucanthus, Senegalia brevispica, and Dalbergia microphylla for goats; and Senegalia brevispica, Vachellia tortilis, and Indigofera spinosa for camels. Beyond their primary role as livestock fodder, woody species were used for fuelwood, food, medicine, construction, and cultural ceremonies, making them critical resources. Despite their value, these species have faced growing threats from overexploitation, overgrazing, climate change, bush encroachment, and agricultural expansion. In conclusion, woody fodder species play a crucial role in supporting livestock, livelihoods, and biodiversity, underscoring the urgent need for their conservation. Therefore, effective conservation strategies are urgently needed to address the threats to woody fodder species by promoting alternative fuel sources, sustainable grazing practices, and reducing pressure on these species.