Work

Woody Plant Species Diversity in Haramaya University Main Campus, Eastern Ethiopia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Quantifying woody species diversity is essential for managing anthropogenically modified landscapes in the Ethiopian highlands. This study evaluated the floristic composition and structural diversity of woody plant species at Haramaya University, Eastern Ethiopia. Vegetation data were collected from 16 quadrats (1600 m 2 ) across two distinct managed zones: the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (Site A) and the Haramaya University Model School (Site B). A total of 569 individuals representing 29 unique woody species were identified. Site B recorded a higher Shannon–Wiener Diversity Index ( H ′ = 2.78) and an Evenness Index ( J ′ = 0.928). In contrast, Site A exhibited lower diversity ( H ′ = 2.31) and an Evenness Index ( J ′ = 0.815) and a significantly higher Simpson’s Dominance Index ( D = 0.1465), which was double that of Site B ( D = 0.0752). An independent sample t ‐test performed on per‐plot diversity values confirmed that the higher structural diversity in Site B was statistically significant (t(14) = 2.45, p = 0.028). Celtis africana emerged as a major structural driver across both sites, reaching a relative density of 29.7% and a modified two‐component Importance Value Index (IVI) of 35.80% in Site A. A Jaccard Similarity Index of 27.59% indicated high beta‐diversity between the study sites, heavily influenced by the uneven introduction of exotic species. Notably, Lantana camara (IVI = 33.7%) and Jacaranda mimosifolia (IVI = 19.5%) have established substantial ecological presence, while indigenous target timber species such as Podocarpus falcatus (5.5%) and Juniperus procera (12%) exhibited lower IVIs. These findings indicate that the campus is transitioning toward a “novel ecosystem” structure. Strategic management, including the targeted suppression of invasive species and enrichment planting of native hardwoods such as Hagenia abyssinica , is recommended to maintain the historical Afromontane character of the landscape.

Source: International Journal of Forestry Research

DOI: 10.1155/ijfr/4886338

Authors: Zelalem Nurlign Getahun, Anteneh Belayneh Desta, Hussen Yimer Abate

Institutions: Ethiopian Forestry Development, Haramaya University

Language: English

Topic: Botany and Plant Ecology Studies

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $860