Ethno-taxonomy and potential uses of highland bamboo (Oldeania alpina) landraces in Ethiopia

Highland bamboo (Oldeania alpina) (K. Schum.) Stapleton (syn: Yushania alpina), is a naturally distributed and cultivated species in the south, south-west, central and north-western highlands of Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess and describe bamboo landraces in Ethiopia based on their dendrometric and morphological traits, and also to understand their potential uses in a local context and identify and recommend potential landraces for wider industrial application. It was carried out in potential highland bamboo growing areas of four regional states of Ethiopia, viz., Amhara, Oromia, Sidama, and Southern Nations, Nationalities and People’s Regions. An extensive field survey was conducted using “transect walk for direct observation” across bamboo stands to collect technical information on identifiable characteristics for ethno-taxonomy, potential household uses, and workability of the culms of the different highland bamboo landraces. The study revealed about 24 landraces with some distinct morphological differences and traditional uses. A cladistic method also exposed some hierarchical dissimilarity among clusters of highland bamboo landraces. In the principal component analysis, nodal area contributed the highest variability among the landraces. The study also found the existence of differences in the preference and utilization of different highland bamboo landraces for various products and purposes based on the properties of the landraces. Based on the preferences of knowledgeable local bamboo processors and quality features observed on the landraces in each of the specific sites, we conclude that landraces such as Lala, Lodo, Tsarzo, Hinkonokita, Sella, Midasho, Ganticha, Shimiti, Demamo, Tikuro and Agade be widely promoted in new areas in the highlands. This would enable wood-based industries to produce quality end products while maintaining the diversity of landraces in the landscape.