Structure and regeneration status of tulu lafto forest, Horo Guduru Wollega Zone, West Ethiopia

Abstract

Ethiopia, with its wide altitudinal gradient is known for its rich biodiversity. But the natural vegetation in the country is highly threatened by alarming deforestation rate. This study was conducted to examine tree population structure and the natural regeneration of indigenous tree species in Tulu Lafto Forest which is located in Horo Guduru Wollega Zone of Oromia National Regional State, Western Ethiopia. Seventy-five quadrats of 400 m2 were systematically laid following an altitudinal gradient. In all the quadrats, diameter at breast height (dbh) and height of all woody plants with a dbh of 2.5 cm and above were measured and recorded. Seedlings and saplings of all woody species were also counted. In the forest, 145 woody species in 118 genera and 55 families were recorded. Although the overall population structure of the forest is an inverted J pattern, some selected tree species revealed irregular population distribution patterns. Seedling and sapling density analysis also showed some tree species have poor regeneration. Hence, species with irregular population distribution patterns and those that are missing from the juvenile phase (seedlings and saplings) require urgent conservation measures.