Sustainability Science and Resources
Vol. 10 (2026): Sustainable Science and Resources

Woody Species Diversity In Coffee Based Home Garden Agroforestry In Dello Menna District Of Bale Zone, Southeastern Ethiopia

Alemayehu Hordofa (Madda Walabu University, Bale Robe, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.)
Solomon Estifanos (Haramaya University, Haramaya, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia)
Getu Tulu (Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute)



Article Info

Publish Date
03 Sep 2026

Abstract

Agroforestry accompanies different varieties of plants. This study assessed woody species diversity in coffee-based home garden agroforestry systems in the Dello Menna District of Bale Zone, Ethiopia. Three kebeles were purposively selected, with two randomly chosen sites in each. Forty-eight 10 × 10 m plots were established for trees and shrubs (>1.5 m height, DBH >2.5 cm), and five 2 × 2 m subplots within each plot were used for seedlings and saplings (<1.5 m height, DBH <2.5 cm). Therefore, the diameter and heights were measured by using diameter tape and a hypsometer, respectively. Trees, saplings, and seedlings encountered in the plots were recorded and identified using the standard procedure. Data were analyzed using GenStat (18th edition), and diversity was assessed through Shannon and evenness indices. A total of 39 woody species from 24 families were recorded, with 71.9% trees and shrubs and 28.1% seedlings and saplings. Shannon diversity ranged from 1.68 to 2.50, and evenness from 0.64 to 0.79, showing significant variation (p < 0.05) among plots. Coffee-based home gardens enhance ecological stability and species diversity, though the dominance of fruit trees reduces overall diversity. Introducing a wider range of species is recommended to enhance sustainability and biodiversity.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ssr

Publisher

Subject

Agriculture, Biological Sciences & Forestry Environmental Science Social Sciences

Description

The journal aims to provide a scholarly forum for the dissemination and exchange of research and developments in biological, physical, and social sciences pertinent to sustainability and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It encourages an interdisciplinary approach to sciences that advances our ...