Floristic composition,structure and regeneration status of Masha forest,south‐west Ethiopia

The natural forest of Masha was studied to determine the species composition and population structure of woody species in the area. A total of 130 plant species belonging 61 families were recorded, in which family Acanthaceae was represented by 11 species followed by Rubiaceae (10) and Asteraceae (9). The composition and population structure of woody species, with diameter at breast height (DBH) >2.5 cm and height >2 m, and their regeneration were assessed in 65 sample plots of 400 m² each. The density for trees and shrubs with DBH >2.5 cm was 1681 ind.ha^?1, and the basal area of the study area was 142.6 m² ha^?1. Four community types were recognized. This forest is of international and national conservation importance given its high biodiversity. Managing the remaining forest would be an appropriate option for sustainable management of biodiversity.