Interfaces of regeneration, structure, diversity and uses of some plant species in Bonga Forest: a reservoir for wild coffee gene pool

Abstract

Studies on the diversity, regeneration, structure and uses of some woody species in the Bonga Forest, one of the Afromontane forests of Ethiopia were made. A 900 m 2 (30 m x 30 m) quadrat was laid following the homogeneity of vegetation in order to collect vegetation data. Investigation of the seedling density and regeneration of target species has been carried out using the same quadrat size. In each of these quadrats, the numbers of all seedlings that are up to the height of 150 cm were recorded. Individuals attaining 150 cm and above in height but less than 10 cm in diameter at breast height (dbh) were considered as sapling and counted. dbh and height of all woody species that are above 150 cm high and more than 10 cm thick were also recorded. Interviews were conducted to collect data on various human pressures exerted on different species. A total of 243 plant species belonging to 85 families were recorded from the Bonga Forest. Of these, 66 families were angiosperms, 2 gymnosperms and 17 monilophytes (ferns). Studies on the structure and regeneration of some woody species indicated that there are species that require urgent conservation measures. Sound management and monitoring, as well as maintenance of biodiversity, cultural and economic values of the forest require conservation activities that promote sustainable uses of the forest and its products.