Comparative analyses of the conservation status of forest patches in the northwestern region of Ethiopia

Ethiopia has gained recognition in Africa for its biological diversity. Sadly, the destructive actions of humans for centuries have resulted in fragmented forests, causing them to be scattered in patches. The Central Gondar Zone, located in northwestern Ethiopia, is known for its diverse forest patches that are crucial for conservation. The objective of this work was to evaluate the conservation status of a sample of these forest patches distributed across government managed and church managed forests. Data on woody species were collected, systematically, in 520 nested plots (20 m × 20 m) across 65 transects distributed in the 10 sampled forest patches. A total of 146 woody plant species (63 families, 6 endemics) were recorded, with Fabaceae being the most dominant (16.7%).The inverted J-shape pattern of trees in the forest patches suggests healthy conditions with active regeneration and recruitment of forest species. Comparative analyses of the forest patches revealed significant differences in species richness, similarity, structure, and regeneration among the three growth forms. Targeted conservation strategies should prioritize species with low IVI, threatened endemics, and poor regeneration, while engaging local communities and religious institutions as key stakeholders to enhance ecological integrity and sustainable management of these forest patches.