Abundance and use of <i>Vepris dainellii</i> (Pichi-Serm.) Kokwaro, an Ethiopian endemic plant, in Melokoza woreda, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

The study on abundance, distribution and use of Vepris dainellii was undertaken in Melokoza woreda (administrative unit) in GamoGofa Zone of Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples Region (SNNPR). The objective of this study was to assess the use of this species by local communities and its current population status in its natural habitat in south-west Ethiopia where it is poorly known. The study approach was categorized into three 1) market survey, 2) informant interview and 3) species population inventory in the surrounding natural habitat. Market survey was mainly focused on market observation to estimate the amount of fruits sold in the market and its frequency compared to other food crops. Informant interview was focused on the uses of the species and its availability in the surrounding forest fragments. The adult tree species abundance and regeneration status in the existing forest fragments was estimated. The result indicates that the species is used as additives to coffee drink because of its aromatic character. Local communities supplement their livelihood by selling wild collected ripe fruit of this species for consumption. In conclusion, Vepris dainellii is locally very useful plant that needs attention for future research that benefits communities. Current over harvesting of mature fruit from parent-tree influenced the regeneration of this species. If this unsustainable harvesting by local people continues, the capacity of the species to maintain its wild population is significantly reduced. Therefore, management and conservation strategies that incorporate this factor is required.

Key words: Vepris dainellii, Melokoza, additive to coffee drink