Woody Species Composition and Community Analysis in Managed and Community Used Forest Sites in Gelesha Kebele, Mejengir Forest, Gambella National Regional State

Abstract

Comparative analysis was undertaken, in managed and community used forest sites of Gelesha Kebele, Mejengir forest, southwest Ethiopia; with the objective to determine woody species diversity of both forest types. A total of 60 plots, with dimension of 20 x 20m were established for trees and shrub sampling following transect line at distance of 200m interval across gradient. For seedling, sapling and climber-woody, five subplots of 5x5m were established with in main plots. Information about number of individuals, number of seedlings and saplings, matured individuals for each species were collected from each plots including relative physical characteristics of the area. Various statistical tools and ecological software were used for the data analyses. A total of 71 species belonging to 56 genera and 30 families were identified. Community types (clusters) analysis indicated that three different community types were identified in each forest. For community used forest, diversity and evenness value of its communities indicated high value as compared to managed forest. The dissimilarity between managed and community used forest types indicates that each forest is unique and need conservation from biodiversity point of view.

Key words:community used forest, manage forest, Mejengir Forest, plant community, species diversity,