Floristic composition and community analysis of woody species in Hereje Natural Forest, southwest Ethiopia

Abstract The floristic composition, diversity, and conservation status of woody plant species in Ethiopia are determined this study. Data on vegetation collected using a systematic random sampling method from 45 20 m × (400m 2 ) plots laid every 100 along four parallel transect lines running south to north. Flora Eritrea identification key (Volume I–VIII) is used identify the scientific names all species. Shannon–Wiener diversity index calculate whereas Sorensen's similarity coefficient assess similarities differences among communities. studied forest contains 44 29 families 40 genera. Fabaceae most dominant family, followed by Rubiaceae Combretaceae . In terms habit, consisted 30 (68.2%) trees 14 (31.8%) shrubs. two frequent Syzygium guineense (51.11%) Maytenus gracilipes (46.66%). Three community types identified Agglomerative Hierarchical Cluster Analysis. Most ( Calpurnia aurea-Combretum molle observed type two. study generally limited Therefore, thorough investigation species' population structure, regeneration status, ecological aspects recommended.