Juniperus Procera Research Articles

Revealing suitable habitats for Juniperus procera and Olea europaea tree species in the remnant dry Afromontane forests of Ethiopia: Insights from ensemble species distribution modeling approach.

Human activities and climate change pose a significant threat to the dry Afromontane forests in Ethiopia, which are essential for millions of people both economically and ecologically. In Ethiopia, trees are planted elsewhere even if they are not likely to be well suited to the area. This study aims to identify the suitable habitat for the most exploited Juniperus procera (J. procera) and Olea europaea (O. europaea) tree species in northern Ethiopia. As inputs, least correlated temperature, moisture, soil, and topographic variables were selected through a stepwise procedure. The study evaluated five individual and ensemble models using the area under the curve (AUC) and true skill statistic (TSS) values. The ensemble model outperformed with mean AUC of 0.95 and TSS of 0.78 for J. procera, while securing the second position for O. europaea with an AUC of 0.88 and TSS of 0.71. Climatic factors emerged as the most influential, followed by soil and topography. Suitable areas for both species were found when Isothermality (Bio3) values range from 52% to 62%, temperature seasonality (Bio4) of 16-29°C. Moreover, well drained soils with soil texture not heavier than sandy clay, and soil organic carbon ranging from 5 to 42 g kg-1 were found suitable. The optimal suitable altitude for J. procera and O. europaea was determined to be 2200-2600 and 2100-2500 m.a.s.l., respectively. The suitable areas for J. procera and O. europaea were estimated to be 3130 and 3946 km2, respectively. Furthermore, potential plantation areas were identified beyond Desa'a and Hugumbirda Grat-Kahsu protected forests, covering 2721 km2 (86.9%) for J. procera and 3576 km2 (90.6%) for O. europaea. These findings hold significance for the conservation and sustainable management of these valuable tree species in northern Ethiopia. We recommend implementing a similar approach for other locally restricted dry Afromontane tree species with wider potential distribution.

Influence of wildfires severity on tree composition and structure in Aberdare Afromontane Forest Ranges, Kenya

Wildfires strongly impacts on the forest ecosystems, with poorly understood consequences on the composition, diversity and structure within Afromontane forests of Eastern Africa. The impacts of wildfire on vegetation were investigated one year after the fire occurrence season. The burn severity was evaluated using Sentinel-2 satellite derived spectral index known as dNBR (difference Normalized Burn Ratio). This was used to delineate wildfire into low and high severity classes. We investigated the effects of wildfires using 36 plots of 15m radius distributed in high and low burn severities while others were laid in unburnt areas. Our findings indicated that tree height, basal area and density were significantly different along severity classes (p = 0.003, p=0.007 and p<0.000 respectively). However, diameter at breast Height was not significant along severity classes (p=0.185). The most ecologically important species based on Important Value Index (IVI) within the fire affected areas were Juniperus procera, Nuxia congesta, Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, Protea kilimandscharicum and Scurtia myrtina. Among the five dominant tree species, the density of Protea kilimandscharicum and Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata were significant along the fire severities (p<0.05). Interaction of vegetation zones and wildfire severity indicated that only height was significant (p= 0.000) while all the other tree variables and species diversity index were insignificant; DBH (p=0.053), basal area (p=0.606), tree density (p=0.389), Shannon Weiner diversity index (p=0.843), Simpson dominance index (p=0.490) and Pielou's evenness index (p=0.248). Whereas this study was on a short-term post-fire effects on vegetation, it has shown remarkable findings which can guide restoration and management of fire affected landscapes. The study recommends evaluation of long-term regeneration and recovery to guide integrated fire management within Afromontane Forest Ecosystems.

Exploring the role of canopy cover and environmental factors in shaping carbon storage in Desa’a forest, Ethiopia

BackgroundDry Afromontane forests play a vital role in mitigating climate change by sequestering and storing carbon, as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Despite previous research highlighting the importance of carbon stocks in these ecosystems, the influence of canopy cover and environmental factors on carbon storage in dry Afromontane forests has been barely assessed. This study addresses this knowledge gap by investigating the effects of environmental factors and vegetation cover on carbon stocks in Desa’a forest, a unique and threatened Afromontane dry forest ecosystem in northern Ethiopia. Data on woody vegetation, dead litter, grass biomass, and soil samples were collected from 57 plots. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed at a 95% confidence level (α = 0.05) to examine the influence of canopy cover and environmental factors on the carbon stocks of various pools.ResultsAmong the 35 woody species identified, Juniperus procera was the most dominant, while Carissa edulis Vahl and Eucalyptus globulus were the least dominant. The average total carbon stock was 92.89 Mg ha−1, with contributions from aboveground carbon, below-ground carbon, litter carbon, grass carbon, and soil organic carbon. Among the carbon pools, soil organic carbon had the highest carbon stock, accounting for 76.8% of the total, followed by above-ground biomass carbon at 17.7%. Significant variations in carbon stocks were found across altitude class and canopy level but not slope and aspect factors.ConclusionsIn summary, altitude and canopy level were found to significantly influence carbon stocks in Desa’a forest, providing valuable insights for conservation and climate change mitigation efforts in dry Afromontane forests. Forest intervention planning and management strategies should consider the influence of different environmental variables and tree canopy levels.

Land use and land cover changes, and woody vegetation status of the Tsimur Gebriel Monastery in Northern Ethiopia

Ethiopian Orthodox churches are significant habitats for endemic and threatened plant species, yet their vegetation status and the land use systems impacting them, are little known. Therefore, this study assessed the land use and land cover changes (LULCC) within a 3 km buffer area and the woody vegetation status of the Tsimur Gebriel Monastery in the Tigray region, Northern Ethiopia. The United States Geological Survey's multi-dated (1986, 1999, and 2018) Landsat imagery was used for LULCC analysis. A supervised classification technique was employed for image classification using a maximum likelihood algorithm. Systematic sampling techniques were used to collect vegetation data (tree species, height, and DBH), using 20 sample plots (20 × 20 m) distanced 100 m apart. The results highlighted that among the five identified LULCC types in the buffer zone of the monastery, the farmland area has expanded from 56 to 78 % at the expense of shrublands between 1986 and 2018. At the monastery, 19 woody tree species from 13 families were identified, with an evenness of 0.5 and a Shannon diversity index of 2.4. The stem density was 336 stems per hectare, and the forest cover was approximately 65 %. Olea europaea was the dominant tree species, while Juniperus procera showed a lack of regeneration at the monastery. Despite the fair natural regeneration, the monastery exhibited lower species diversity, richness, and evenness. However, the monastery remains an important habitat for rare and threatened tree species and may supply seeds for the restoration of degraded lands. Therefore, establishing exclosures in the buffer zone, strengthening stone walls and enrichment planting of degraded tree species should be implemented to ensure the sustainable conservation of valuable tree species.

Woody species diversity, structure and regeneration status of the church forests in West Gojjam Zone, Northwestern Ethiopia

Ethiopia's diverse ecology faces challenges from significant deforestation. Church forests are relatively protected although under pressure from agricultural expansion, grave house construction and climate related factors. The present study was aimed to assess the woody species composition, structure and regeneration status of church forests in the West Gojjam Zone. Twenty-six church forests were selected using stratified random sampling based on agroecology, elevation, forest size, and distance from population centers. A total of 175 main plots of 20 m × 20 m (400 m2) for trees, 875 subplots of 5 m × 5 m (25 m2) for saplings, and 875 subplots of 1 m × 1 m (1 m2) for seedlings were laid down. Diameter at breast height (DBH) was measured for woody plants with a DBH ≥2.5 cm and also height ≥ 2.5 m. Diversity and structural analysis of the woody species were carried out using appropriate tools. The regeneration status of the study forests was evaluated based on the number of seedlings, sapling and matured plants. A total of 111 woody species that belong to 95 genera and 51 families with 72 (64.86 %) trees, 23 (20.72 %) shrubs, 8 (7.2 %) shrubs/trees and 8 (7.2) lianas were identified. In the study sites, the woody plant species consist of 82.88 % indigenous, 15.32 % exotic, and 1.8 % endemic species. Fabaceae was the dominant family in West Gojjam zone church forests. The Shannon diversity ranged from 0.99 to 3.47, with an average of 2.55, and evenness varied from 0.5 to 0.96 (average 0.82). Species richness ranged from 7 to 45 with the average value of 23.81, and a total stem density of 5880 individuals per hectare. Additionally, 5923 saplings and 6136 seedlings per hectare were recorded. The most abundant species include Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Calpurnia aurea, and Juniperus procera. The average basal area was 29.268 m²/ha for the studied church forests, with Ficus vasta having the highest basal area. Juniperus procera and Rhus vulgaris exhibited the highest Importance Value index (IVI), while Premna schimperi, and Myrtus communis had the lowest IVI. The overall regeneration status of west Gojjam church forests was found to be good. Significant differences in woody species composition and diversity were observed between church forests. The study revealed the importance of church forests in the West Gojjam Zone for plant diversity conservation, revealing their resilience and potential for sustainable protection of forests despite the challenges like deforestation and climate change, and their potential for sustainable maintenance. As we have already seen, some of the church's forests were converted to agriculture as a source of income for the church. This practice is dangerous for the survival of the endemic plants in the church forests and leads to deforestation. Therefore, it is recommended to form an alternative source of income for the church.

Composition and Structural Diversity of Woody Species in the Wof Ayzurish Forests, the Dry Afromontane Forest of the Northern EthiopiaI

Dry Afromontane Forest (DAF) is the largest Afromontane section and plays a fundamental role in preservation of species biodiversity. Despite its biodiversity, DAF is the most altered and threatened in the Ethiopian ecosystem. With the exception of a few isolated pockets left in some sacred places and protected areas of the country, most of forests are inaccessible. The scenario is not different for the present study forest. Therefore, the objective of the present study is to investigate woody species diversity, structure and regeneration status of Wof Ayzurish Forest, which is a dry Afromonatane in North Shewa of Ethiopia. A systematic method was employed whereby 67 quadrats set in 8 parallel lines transecting at 300-meter intervals and quadrats at 150-m distance. All trees and shrubs with diameters of breast height > 2.5 cm and height > 2 m were measured. The results revealed that Wof Ayzurish Forest harbors 76 species of woody plants that belong to 68 genera and 47 families, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae, and Solanaceae displaying the highest diversity. Shrubs had the highest composition than trees. The most abundant plants were Dodonaea viscosa subsp. angustifolia, Carissa spinarum, Juniperus procera, Olinia rochetiana and Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata. Dodonaea viscosa subsp. angustifolia was the most prominent plant, occurring in 98.5 % of all sample plots. The DBH and height classification pattern exhibited that the forest had a classic inverted J-shape, dominated by smaller trees and shrubs, indicating a secondary stage of regeneration. Total basal area (BA) for trees and shrubs DBH > 2.5 cm was 18.03 m2 ha−1. Remarkably, five species accounted for 57.45 % of the basal area, indicating that higher numbers of individuals concentrated in lower DBH classes. By using R software, agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis and Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) has done to identify plant community types and examine the relationship between plant community types and environmental variables, respectively. Three significantly different (p < 0.05) plant community types were identified. The CCA results showed that species diversity and community composition among community types were significantly influenced by altitude and human disturbance such as expansion of agriculture, cuttings, and grazing. Therefore, it is recommended that community-based methods and awareness creation should be devised in order to implement sustainable forest conservation.

The impact of chemical and hormonal treatments to improve seed germination and seedling growth of Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endi.

Juniper (Juniperus procera) is a common forest tree species in Saudi Arabia. The decline in many populations of J. procera in Saudi Arabia is mainly due to seed dormancy and loss of natural regeneration. This study assessed the effects of chemical and hormonal treatments on seed germination and seedling growth in juniper plants. The seeds were subjected to either chemical scarification with 90% sulfuric acid and 20% acetic acid for 6 min or hormonal treatment by seed soaking in two concentrations (50 and 100 ppm) of three growth regulators, namely, indole acetic acid (IAA), gibberellins (GA3), and kinetin, for 72 h. A control group without any seed treatment was also prepared. The experiments were performed in an incubator maintained at room temperature and under a light and dark period of 12 h for 6 w. The germinated seeds for each treatment were counted and removed from the dishes. The selected germinated seeds from different treatments were planted in a greenhouse and irrigated with tap water for another 6 weeks. The hormone-treated seedlings were sprayed with their corresponding hormone concentrations 1 w after planting. The highest percentage of seed germination was significantly recorded after seed soaking in 50 ppm GA3, whereas treatment with IAA (100 ppm) resulted in the best seedling growth. Seedlings treated with the three phytohormones showed a significant increase in photosynthetic pigments, total soluble sugars, proteins, percentage of oil, IAA, GA3, and kinetin contents of juniper seedlings compared with the control value, whereas abscisic acid content was decreased compared with chemical treatments. The investigated different treatments had an effective role in breaking seed dormancy and improving seedling growth of J. procera, which is facing a notable decline in its population worldwide. Moreover, such an effect was more pronounced in the three phytohormones that succeeded in breaking dormancy and growth of the Juniperus plant than in the other treatments.

Comparing genetic differentiation and variation using ISSR and SCoT among Juniper plant markers in Saudi Arabia.

Juniperus, a genus of fragrant evergreen trees in the Cupressaceae family, encompasses up to 67 distinct species distributed globally. Among these, Juniperus procera, also known as the East African pencil cedar or African Juniper, stands out for its notable medicinal properties. Due to the well-recognized therapeutic benefits of Juniper species, assessing genetic diversity is essential for various breeding initiatives. Thus, in this work, six ISSR and six SCoT primers were utilized to evaluate the genetic diversity between 23 Juniper genotypes collected from different locations in Saudi Arabia. 29 out of 103 and 26 out of 105 amplified bands, respectively, were found to be polymorphic markers using the ISSR and SCoT studies. With the help of 120 genotype-specific markers, including 60 for ISSR and 60 for SCoT, several varieties of Juniper were discovered. In addition, the polymorphism information content (PIC) was computed to assess the effectiveness of the markers. The findings of this study highlight the importance of conserving the genetic diversity of Juniperus procera, as it holds immense potential for developing new medicinal products. Additionally, the results provide valuable insights into the genetic structure of Juniper populations in western Saudi Arabia, which can inform future conservation and management efforts. However, all of the techniques utilized to profile the genotypes of Juniper can be regarded as useful techniques for long-term fingerprinting and diagnostic markers.

Mixed-Effects Height Prediction Model for Juniperus procera Trees from a Dry Afromontane Forest in Ethiopia

Tree height is a crucial variable in forestry science. In the current study, an accurate height prediction model for Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endl. trees were developed, using a nonlinear mixed-effects modeling approach on 1215 observations from 101 randomly established plots in the Chilimo Dry Afromontane Forest in Ethiopia. After comparing 14 nonlinear models, the most appropriate base model was selected and expanded as a mixed-effects model, using the sample plot as a grouping factor, and adding stand-level variables to increase the model’s prediction ability. Using a completely independent dataset of observations, the best sampling alternative for calibration was determined using goodness-of-fit criteria. Our findings revealed that the Michaelis–Menten model outperformed the other models, while the expansion to the mixed-effects model significantly improved the height prediction. On the other hand, incorporating the quadratic mean diameter and the stem density slightly improved the model’s prediction ability. The fixed-effects of the selected model can also be used to predict the mean height of Juniperus procera trees as a marginal solution. The calibration response revealed that a systematic selection of the three largest-diameter trees at the plot level is the most effective for random effect estimation across new plots or stands.

Ethnoveterinary medicinal plants and their utilization by the people of Soro District, Hadiya Zone, southern Ethiopia

BackgroundEthnoveterinary studies are important to maintain the sustainability of livestock health and support people’s livelihoods through the provision of food, maintaining livestock health, and other biological resources. This study was carried out in Soro District, southern Ethiopia, to identify, document and analyse plant species with ethnoveterinary uses along with the associated indigenous and local knowledge.Materials and methodsInformants were selected using purposive (key informants) and systematic random sampling (general informants) methods. Data on ethnoveterinary plants and their uses were collected through semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions with five to seven members in each and participant observation. Informant consensus factor and fidelity level were computed to identify the most common livestock ailment categories and the best plant species with ethnoveterinary use, respectively. Preference ranking methods were used to identify the potentially effective ethnoveterinary medicinal plants for the most frequently reported livestock ailments. The use diversity of multipurpose plants with ethnoveterinary importance was analysed using the analytical methods of ethnobotany including priority ranking, comparisons and important indices. The T-test statistic was used to compare knowledge differences among different social groups.ResultsA total of 132 plant species in 120 genera and 61 families were reported by informants as having ethnoveterinary uses. The plants are said to be used by the local communities in various ways to treat 50 livestock health problems. Higher number of informants (23.77%) cited Momordica foetida for the treatment of 16 livestock ailments. The highest informant consensus value for this species is associated with its use for treating blackleg in cattle; Nicotiana tabacum was cited for the treatment of 15 livestock ailments mainly recommended for the Lumpy Skin Disease/Ailment of bovines; Croton macrostachyus for treatment of 13 livestock ailments including wooden tongue, FMD in bovines; and Gymnanthemum amygdalinum for nine ailments mainly diarrhoea of all livestock types. Achyranthes aspera is claimed to provide the most effective treatment for Aspiration pneumonia (severe coughing in bovines, sheep and goats) alone, while Croton macrostachyus, Ximenia americana, Allium sativum and Juniperus procera were indicated as potential plant species to treat Lumpy Skin Disease in bovines in the order given. The fidelity level analysis showed that Datura stramonium, Dodonaea viscosa subsp. angustifolia and Asparagus africanus were potential medicinal plant species to treat the respective ailments of rabies, Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) and evil eye/spirit. Multipurpose plant species including Prunus africanus, Combretum molle and Afrocarpus falcatus have been highly threatened as indicated by direct matrix ranking mainly due to collection of fuel wood, construction materials and making household utensils, and farm implements rather than for other uses.ConclusionSoro District has rich and diversified livestock herbal medicinal resources, and indigenous knowledge of remedy preparations and applications is transmitted through generation lines. This resource faces anthropogenic threats with deforestation being the leading factor. Consequently, ethnoveterinary medicinal plants continue to decline before adequate and proper scientific documentation and testing are made. There is a dire need for planning and implementation of appropriate in situ and ex situ conservation strategies and to strive towards ensuring the survival and sustainable utilization of such important plant resources of Soro District. This must be supported by further documentation of the associated indigenous knowledge and pharmacological testing of the key promising species including Balanites aegyptiaca (novel species/NS to treat specific ailment), Brugmansia suaveolens (novel species/NS reported first to treat Livestock ailments/LsAs), Euclea divinorum (NS to treat specific ailments), Grevillea robusta (NS), Hagenia abyssinica (NS for the reported specific ailment), Pentanema confertiflorum (NS), Juniperus procera (NS), Maesa lanceolata (NS), Millettia ferruginea (NS for reported specific ailments), Schrebera alata/NS, Securidaca longepedunculata, Spiniluma oxyacantha/NS, Vepris nobilis (novel species reported first to treat LsAs), Zanthoxylum asiaticum /NS and Ximenia americana (NS for specific ailments). This ethnoveterinary study attempted to fill part of the gaps concerning the prevalent livestock health problems and the associated indigenous and local knowledge in the area.

Effect of provenances on growth and stem form of 16-year Juniperus procera plantation in Injibara, Northwestern Ethiopia

Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endl. is an evergreen highland tree species reaching 30–40 m high and restricted to some mountainous areas. This tree is a species of great ecological and economic significance in supporting biodiversity, preventing soil erosion, and providing valuable resources. The study aimed at comparing the provenances effect on growth and yield performance of a 16-years-old J. procera plantation. This long-term experiment included eleven provenances from different regions of Ethiopia. It was laid out in a randomized complete block design with four replicates. The plot size was 100 m2 with 2.5 m by 2.5 m spacing. Growth parameters such as height and diameter over a 1-m interval of standing trees were measured for sample trees. The results showed that the overall mean of basal area for 11 provenances was ranging from 4.4 ± 0.29 to 5.2 ± 0.33 m2 ha⁻1. The biggest (11.3 ± 0.14 m) and smallest (9.8 ± 0.16 m) mean height was obtained in the provenances of Kolobo and Dikisis, respectively. The mean volume of the stem ranges from 12.3 ± 0.93 to 17.9 ± 1.1 m3 ha⁻1. The highest and lowest form factor was obtained in the provenances of Gaynt (0.43 ± 0.02) and Hirna (0.32 ± 0.02), respectively. The generic form factor is 0.4 ± 0.01. Provenance Kolobo had the best growth rate in all growth stages with 1.4 m height greater than the poorest provenance Dikisis and 23% greater than the overall average volume (14.5 m3 ha⁻1) at age of 16 years. The variations in growth and yield performance among the provenances could be attributed to genetic differences and adaptation to the local environment. Provenances originating from similar altitude such as Kolobo's provenances showed better growth and yield performance, possibly due to their adaptation to the cooler and wetter conditions prevailing in the study area. Choosing provenances that are well-adapted to the local site conditions can lead to improved productivity and economic returns.

Evaluation of Saudi Juniperus procera Extracts Cytotoxicity and Regulatory Mechanisms of Tumorigenesis Against Two Breast Cancer Cell Lines

Background Breast cancer poses a major threat to female health worldwide. One of the medicinal plants used in traditional Saudi medicine is the Juniperus procera (Arar) plant, which is used to cure various illnesses, including cancer. Objectives The cytotoxic properties of Saudi J. procera extracts and their regulatory mechanisms against tumorigenesis in breast cancer were investigated. Methods The antioxidant capacities of the fruit and leaf extracts were detected by the 2,2′-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay and 2,2-diphenyl-1-1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The cell viability of the extracts was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazoyl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide assay. The cell migration was detected by a wound healing assay. The cell cycle and cell apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. The reactive oxygen species (ROS) was evaluated using a DCFDA-cellular (the cell permeant reagent 2',7' –dichlorofluorescein diacetate) reactive oxygen species detection assay. The protein and gene expression levels were estimated by western blotting and Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. Results Phytochemical analysis revealed a high content of phenolic and flavonoids in fruit and leaf extracts. Relative to leaf extract, the fruit extract showed higher antioxidant activities and exhibited more potent cytotoxic effects against two breast cancer cell lines: MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. The fruit extract arrested the cell cycle of the tested cancer cell lines in S phase and G1 phase, and downregulated PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase-protein kinase)/Akt (protein kinase B)/mTOR (Mammalian target of rapamycin) pathway. It also suppressed aromatase expression in MCF-7 but upregulated it in MDA-MB-231. Conclusion J procera fruit and leaf extracts have significant antitumor activities against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines.

Aromatase inhibition using Juniperus procera phytochemical constituents: molecular docking study

The key step in the biosynthesis of estrogen is the enzyme activity of aromatase. Several malignancies, including breast cancer, have been linked to the initiation and progression of estrogen overexpression. Exemestane, Arimidex and Femara are the most common aromatase inhibitors used to treat hormone-dependent breast cancers. Drug resistance and side effects are commonly associated with these treatments. The purpose of this in silico study was to list the chemical compounds of Juniperus procera that have been published in scientific papers. The second goal was to evaluate the inhibitory activity of 124 phytochemicals of Juniperus procera compared to known aromatase inhibitors such as Exemestane, Arimidex and Femara. The 3D structure of aromatase (PDB id: 3s7s) employed for docking studies using AutoDock Tools as well as normal mode analysis studies utilizing the NMSim web server. Juniperolide, Kaurenoic acid and Isocupressic acid were identified as competitive aromatase inhibitors compared to FDA approved anti-cancer drugs, specifically Exemestane, Arimidex and Femara. The stability of the ligand–protein interface was studied to support the docking findings. To our knowledge, this is the first study that investigates the possible inhibition roles of some compounds of Juniperus procera on the aromatase enzyme.

Response of plant species to impact of climate change in Hugumbrda Grat-Kahsu forest, Tigray, Ethiopia: Implications for domestication and climate change mitigation

This study aimed to predict distribution and Total Carbon Stock (TCS) dynamics of Acacia abyssinica, Carissa edulis, and Juniperus procera in the Hugumbrda Grat-Kahsu National Forest in current (1970–2000) and future climate scenarios (2021–2100). Bioclimatic, soil, and elevation data were used for modeling using Maxent, with model accuracy evaluated using Area Under the Curve (AUC), Kappa test and True Skill Statistic (TSS). Significant differences were observed in distribution of species between current and future periods under Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs) of SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 scenarios. The main contributing predictors of the species distribution were temperature seasonality, altitude, and precipitation of the warmest quarter. All species were projected to shift to higher altitudes in the future. Acacia abyssinica’s current potential distribution (42.9 %) could expand to 77.1–99.2 % (SSP2-4.5) and 63.8–72.9 % (SSP5-8.5). Carissa edulis could extend from 54.2 % to 89.5–100 % (SSP2-4.5) and 77.1–87.9 % (SSP5-8.5). Juniperus procera’s might increase from 63.8 % to 91.8-99.7 % (SSP2-4.5) and 78–88.1 % (SSP5-8.5). The projected future climate is expected to result in an expansion of new suitable areas for all three species. The TCS estimates per km2 were 169 (Acacia abyssinica), 46 (Carissa edulis), and 1381 ton (Juniperus procera). In SSP2-4.5, Acacia abyssinica’s TCS could rise from 25,688 to 59,319 tons, Carissa edulis from 8,832 to 16,284 tons, and Juniperus procera from 312,106 to 487,493 tons. In SSP5-8.5, projections indicated 43,602 tons (Acacia abyssinica), 14,306 tons (Carissa edulis), and 430,872 tons (Juniperus procera). The study concludes by recommending the strategic planting of these species in both current and future suitable areas to enhance ecosystem services and ensure their sustained existence in the face of changing climates.

Floristic Composition, Diversity, and Regeneration of Woody Plant Species of Dabal Forest in Southeastern Ethiopia: Implication for Conservation.

Floristic composition, population structure, and regeneration status of woody species of Dabal forest found in East Hararghe zone of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, were studied. Vegetation data were obtained from 52 main plots of 20 × 20 m for mature woody species and 5 subplots of 5 × 5 m for seedlings and saplings. Density and dbh of each live woody plant species found in each sample plot were recorded. Frequency, basal area, importance value, and Shannon-Wiener diversity indices were also computed. Totally 59 woody plant species distributed in 33 families were documented. Of these, 45.80, 44.10, and 5.08% were shrubs, trees, and lianas, respectively. Species diversity and evenness indices were 3.56 and 0.87, respectively. Stem count of all woody species was 3379 stems ha-1. Out of this, 44.6, 30.8, and 24.59% were seedlings (dbh <3.5 cm), saplings (dbh between 3.5 and 10 cm), and mature (dbh >10 cm) individuals, respectively. Total basal area of all individuals with dbh ≥3.5 cm was 29.88 m2 ha-1. Juniperus procera, Cupressus lusitanica, Eucalyptus globulus, Afrocarpus falcatus, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Myrsine africana, Maytenus undata, Hagenia abyssinica, Ekebergia capensis, and Cordia africana were species with top ten IVI. Most of these species were top densest, dominant, and frequent. Analysis of population structure based on pooled densities of all species in each dbh class showed that density of seedling > sapling > mature individuals, signifying healthy population structure with good natural regeneration potential. On individual basis, however, 35.6 and 8.5% of species showed fair and poor regeneration statuses, respectively, that deserve attention for conservation.

The Potential Role of Phytochemicals of Juniperus procera in the Treatment of Ovarian Cancer and the Inhibition of Human Topoisomerase II Alpha Activity.

A variety of active chemicals found in medicinal plants can be used to develop new medications with few adverse effects. In vitro and in silico analyses were used to evaluate the anticancer properties of Juniperus procera fruit and leaf extracts. Here, we show that the methanolic extract from J procera fruit and leaf extracts inhibits 2 human ovarian cancer cell lines, A2780CP and SKOV-3. The leaf extract demonstrated strong cytotoxicity against A2780CP with an IC50 of 1.2 μg/mL, almost matching the IC50 of the anticancer medication doxorubicin (0.9 μg/mL). Higher antioxidant activity was observed in the fruit than leaf extract. The molecular docking results showed that the active component, podocarpusflavone A, was the best-docked chemical with the human topoisomerase II alpha enzyme. According to our knowledge, this is the first in vitro study to show the cytotoxicity of J procera extracts against the 2 previously described human ovarian cancer cell lines. The fact that the podocarpusflavone A molecule may have an inhibitory effect on the human topoisomerase II alpha enzyme was also revealed by this first in silico analysis. Our findings imply that the J procera fruit and leaf methanolic extract has anticancer characteristics that may guide future in vivo studies.

Species diversity and vegetation structure of woody plants in regenerating Juniperus forest replacing Eucalyptus in the conservation area of Gullele Botanic Garden, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

The Gullele Botanic Garden (GBG) adjoins the north-western limit of the city of Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia. The floristic composition, species diversity and vegetative structure of the woody plant species in the conservation area of the garden are presented from 81 plots (20 m x 20 m). A total of 104 woody plant species (90% indigenous, the rest planted or naturalised) of 83 genera and 47 families were recorded. The dominant families were Fabaceae and Asteraceae. The number of individuals of the most dominant species, Juniperus procera, decreases with increasing DBH and height class, which indicates a good and healthy reproduction potential of the species in the conservation area. No statistically meaningful plant communities could be identified in the conservation area. Many of the species present in the dry forests of the central Ethiopian plateau occur in GBG. The species richness appears to be relatively high in comparison with what other researchers have found in natural forests on the highland plateau; 87 native woody species (of which 11 are planted) in GBG, 57-97 (cumulatively 127) in Wof-Washa, 32-85 (cumulatively 113) in Menagesha and 41-77 (cumulatively 81) in Chilimo, 34-67 (cumulatively 69) in Entoto, though the definitions for woody species have varied between studies. Clustering on the floristic data gives four partly overlapping clusters with the lowest p-values for indicator species, but the distribution of the plots on clusters changes notably if information on Eucalyptus is in- or excluded. Ordination graphs with partly overlapping groups of species are presented. The findings in this paper can serve as a baseline to follow the regeneration of the conservation area towards natural forest. This is needed for future management and sustainable utilization of the forest species at local and national levels.

Conservation Threats to Ethnomedicinal plants in Kore District, South Eastern, Ethiopia

The study aimed to investigate the threats to the biodiversity of ethnomedicinal plants and to find consensus information on conservation and management practices of ethnomedicinal plants to contribute sustainable utilization of ethnomedicinal plants in Kore district, Southeastern Ethiopia. The result of the survey revealed that sixty-one medicinal plants were reported by the informants from the study area. These plants are distributed in 59 genera and 37 families. Family Lamiaceae and Asteraceae were represented by 5 (8.2%) species for each family and this is the highest number of species and followed by 4 (6.5%) species of Solanaceae and Fabaceae for each family. Preference ranking analysis shows that Eucalyptus globulus scored 47, indicating that it is the most used plant for firewood in the community, followed by Olea europaea (45) and the least used plant for firewood is Juniperus procera scored 36. Paired comparison analysis showed that Olea Europeae ranked first followed by Podocarpus falcatus for the use of charcoal production in the study area. The major purposes of plant species in the study area were construction, Charcoal, Firewood, Furniture, and Fences as well as for medicinal uses. Based on direct matrix ranking analysis Juniperus procera, Eucalyptus globulus, Podocarpus falactus, Olea europaea, Hagenia abyssinica, Croton macrostachyus, and Cordia africana were the most preferred medicinal plants by local people in the study area. The analysis's findings indicated that anthropogenic influences are endangering medicinal plants. In this study area, only about 13% of medicinal plants are collected from home gardens. This shows that the effort made by the community to conserve medicinal plants is not satisfactory. Therefore, encouraging NGOs and Government offices to participate in the conservation of medicinal plants to encourage the local people to plant indigenous trees for domestic use is necessary.

Assessment of Farmer’s Tree Preferences and Their Seasonal Frost Management Practices in Frost-Affected Highlands of Eastern Ethiopia

Deforestation, land degradation, and low survival of planted seedlings are serious problems in highland Ethiopia. To address these problems, different land management practices such as afforestation and conservation program have been implemented; however, the success to date limited due to environmental stress and insufficient post-planting care. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate farmer’s tree needs and their traditional knowledge of seasonal frost management practices in selected frost-affected highlands of Eastern, Ethiopia. A total of 111 households were randomly selected for interviews on farmer’s tree species preference, frost management practices, and the causes of seedling mortality in the study area. Furthermore, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data. The results confirm that season frost (55.6%) followed by free grazing (22.2%), inappropriate species site match (11.1%), and inappropriate planting time (5.6%) were major causes of seedling mortality in the study area. Organic mulch, plant cover, smoking, watering, and manuring were seasonal frost management practices applied by farmer’s to enhance seedlings’ survival in the study areas. However, this indigenous knowledge should be encouraged by the government through improved research, and extension services, to enhance seedlings’ survival in the study areas as well as to introduce it in different frost-prone highlands of Ethiopia. Moreover, species such as Eucalyptus globulus’ Labill, Cupressus lusitanica Mill., Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endl., Hagenia abyssinica a (Bruce) J.F.Gmel, and Podocarpus falcatus (Thunb.) Mirb. (syn. P. gracilior Pilg.), were suggested as frost-tolerant species in the study area. Therefore, it is recommended that planting these tree species through research and campaign is essential to reduce land degradation in the frost-affected highlands area of the country, particularly in the study area.

Feeding Habits and Activity Patterns of Grivet Monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops L.) in Batiero Church Forest, Northern Ethiopia

Grivet monkeys (Chlorocebus aethiops) are restricted to fragmented forests where food and space are limiting factors. The study investigated the feeding and activity patterns of grivet monkeys in Batiero Church Forest, northern Ethiopia, using focal and scan sampling techniques. Both focal and scan animal sessions lasted 15 min, with 5 min rest intervals between sessions. During the early dry season, grivet monkeys mainly fed on Acacia sieberiana (26.5%) and Juniperus procera (17.5%). Dry season food selection was significantly different, J. procera (20.5%), Acacia mearnsii (15.6%), A. sieberiana (14.2%), and Cyperus bulbosus (12.7%). The predominant plant parts eaten were seeds (42.6% and 33.3% in early dry and dry seasons, respectively) followed by leaves (34.5% and 22.5% in early dry and dry seasons, respectively). The activity patterns showed no significant seasonal variation, and the most frequent activity was feeding (33.3% and 32.6%, in early dry and dry seasons, respectively). The preferred food source tree species are threatened, and the survival of the grivet monkeys depends on the conservation of indigenous plants and trees.