College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism

Permanent URI for this communityhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/5

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 824

Above ground biomass, land cover change and regeneration of tree species under different grazing intensities in miombo woodlands,Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024) Rugambwa, Thadei Tarcis
Tanzania's livestock sector faces challenges due to overgrazing, threatening the ecological balance of critical habitats like Miombo woodlands. This study investigates the impact of grazing pressure on land cover changes, tree biomass, and regeneration potential in these woodlands of Kilosa, Kilombero, and Handeni districts. Despite existing research on the damaging effects of overgrazing, a comprehensive analysis specific to Tanzanian Miombo woodlands is lacking. We address this gap by analyzing high-resolution satellite imagery (Landsat 5 TM & 8 OLI) from 1995 to 2021 to quantify land cover changes across the study areas. Field surveys were conducted to assess grazing intensity, aboveground biomass (AGB), and tree regeneration within representative Miombo woodland sites. Allometric models estimated tree-level AGB, which was then scaled to calculate plot-level AGB (tonnes/ha). Statistical analyses explored relationships between grazing intensity and land cover change, biomass dynamics, and tree regeneration. Results reveal a negative impact of medium and high grazing intensities on AGB compared to light grazing. Satellite image analysis indicates higher tree cover loss under medium grazing (63.5%) compared to high (61.5%) and light grazing (23.2%) between 1995 and 2022. Additionally, grazing intensity significantly affects tree regeneration (number, species richness, diversity, and evenness) (p < 0.05). These findings show the damaging effects of overgrazing on Tanzanian Miombo woodlands. This knowledge can inform sustainable grazing practices, collaborative management strategies, and efforts to mitigate forest cover loss. Further research could explore optimal grazing levels and develop specific recommendations for policymakers and land managers.
Above- and belowground tree biomass models for three mangrove species in Tanzania: a nonlinear mixed effects modelling approach
(Springer, 2015-10) Njana, Marco Andrew; Bollandsås, Ole Martin; Eid, Tron; Malimbwi, Rogers Ernest; Zahabu, Eliakimu
& Key message Tested on data from Tanzania, both existing species-specific and common biomass models developed elsewhere revealed statistically significant large prediction errors. Species-specific and common above- and below- ground biomass models for three mangrove species were therefore developed. The species-specific models fitted bet- ter to data than the common models. The former models are recommended for accurate estimation of biomass stored in mangrove forests of Tanzania. & Context Mangroves are essential for climate change mitiga- tion through carbon storage and sequestration. Biomass models are important tools for quantifying biomass and car- bon stock. While numerous aboveground biomass models exist, very few studies have focused on belowground biomass, and among these, mangroves of Africa are hardly or not represented.
Aboveground biomass and carbon stock of Usambara tropical Rainforests in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Forestry and Nature Conservation, 2021) Mauya, E.W.; Madundo, S
Forest Above ground biomass (AGB) and carbon stock (AGC) estimation is important for carbon budget accounting, sustainable forest management as well as for understanding the role of forest ecosystem in the climate change mitigation. In the recent decade, there has been a growing global interest on quantifying AGB and AGC in the tropical countries. However, the information on AGB and AGC at local and subnational scales in most of the tropical forests is scattered and not consolidated. In this study, we reviewed the existing information on AGB and AGC for tropical rainforests of northern Tanzania. We used both data published in the peer-reviewed literature and data from unpublished sources provided by various sources. Our results showed that, there are three types of data sources and methods used for estimation of AGB and AGC. These included, field, geographical information system and remote sensing. Of all the methods, field based method was applied to a large extent. The average reported minimum values of AGB and AGC are 177.00 Mg ha -1 and 88.5 Mg ha -1 , and the maximum average values are 872 Mg ha -1 and 436 Mg ha -1 respectively. Overall, the average values of AGB and AGC in the Usambara tropical mountain forests (UTMFs) are 351.08 Mg ha -1 and 175.54 Mg ha -1 respectively. Forest structure parameters, particularly tree sizes and number of tree stems, were the major structure parameters reported to affect the amount of AGB and AGC. To conclude, the study revealed that there is a progressive trend in the estimation of AGB and AGC in the UTMFs. However, more update and effective forest survey data and methods are needed particularly in west Usambara mountain forests block.
Abundance, distribution and conservation threats of African wild dog (lycaon pictus) in the Loliondo game controlled area, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Masenga, Emmanuel Hosiana
Assessment of abundance, distribution and conservation threats to African wild dogs was conducted in Loliondo Game Controlled Area (LGCA), northern Tanzania. Specifically, the study focused on determining population size and structure, spatial distribution, attitudes of local people towards wild dogs and wild dog conservation and threats impacting the species. Semi-structured interviews, diurnal random searches, internal and external examinations of wild dogs carcasses examined and night transect surveys were employed. Eight packs with a total of 132 recognised individuals at an average pack size of 16.50 ± SD 7.50 individuals were recorded. Pack sizes 3 individuals were reported to be sighted mostly and of all respondents (n = 210), only 26% were able to recognise wild dog sexes. The density of both known and unknown wild dogs was 0.19 animals/km 2 , higher compared to other carnivores. In terms of distribution most of the packs were concentrated in the northern part as compared to the central and southern parts of LGCA. The species was observed to occur most in woodland type of vegetation. Interestingly, 55.30% of respondents showed a positive attitude towards wild dogs and wild dog conservation despite that 52.90% of respondents dismissed lack of any conservation action or strategy in place towards conserving the species. However, poisoning and Canine Distemper Virus were identified as the main threats. Therefore, conserving African wild dogs in LGCA requires mult-approach conservation efforts (i.e. awareness rising to community, fitting radio telemetry to the dogs and threats management interventions) due to nature of the species.
Activity patterns and fine-scale resource partitioning in the gregarious Kihansi spray toad Nectophrynoides asperginis in captivity
(Wiley & Sons, 2014-08-01) Rija, A. A.; Goboro, E. M.; Mwamende, K. A.; Saidi, A.; Kohi, E. M.; Shombe, H. N.
Understanding the behavior of species threatened with extinction is important for conservation planning and for solving problems facing species in captivity and the wild. We examined diurnal activity budgets and habitat use of the extinct in the wild Kihansi spray toad to provide insights into ongoing conservation initiatives for this species. Observations on eight target behaviors were made each morning and evening for 14 days, in two subpopulations at Kihansi and University of Dar es Salaam captive breeding centers. There were significantly more bouts of resting than calling, amplexing, hunting, walking, climbing, or feeding. There was no difference in mean time spent in each activity between the two subpopulations. The use of habitat was variable between age classes, subpopulations and sampling time. Young toads spent significantly more time resting at the top of vegetation and on walls while adults rested
Adaptive capacity to climate change of pastoralists in Kilosa District, Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Forestry and Nature Conservation, 2020) Kitasho, N; Abdallah, J.M; Zakayo, R.
A study was conducted to investigate the adaptive capacity of pastoralists in Kilosa district to climate change. Specifically, the study assessed the trend and impact of climate change in the area, adaptive elements of pastoral communities against climate change and determined the contribution of state agencies in enhancing pastoral system’s resilience to climate variability in the district. Data were collected using household questionnaire survey, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and field observation. The data was analysed using Excel and SPSS computer software programs. Results revealed that in the period 1972-1974, there was a significant shift of rainfall in the study area from bi-modal to unimodal. This trend has been consistent with climate change scenarios in recent decades of lower rainfall and more severe droughts. Most pastoralists were aware of climate change impacts namely water scarcity, increase of livestock diseases and increased distance to grazing lands. The capacity of pastoralists to adapt to climate change stress depends largely on the number of livestock. Pastoralists owning more livestock are more likely to adapt to climate change. This study recommends that the community should diversify to other sustainable economic activities rather than relying on livestock only while climatic conditions are not favourable for this economic activity. The Government should put more effort on supporting pastoralists in their adaptive strategies as well as make regular review of policies to favour adaptation measures.
Addressing pest and disease challenges in the national forest plantations: lessons learned from the National Forest Health Forum
(Tanzania Forestry Research Institute (TAFORI) and Tanzania Forest Fund (TaFF), 2018) Petro, R; Ndomba, O.A; Bakengesa, S; Chamshama, S.A.O; Chidege, M.
This paper presents the results of the work carried out by the National Forest Health Forum (NFHF), which covered five National Forest Plantations: Mbizi (Sumbawanga), Meru/Usa (Kilimanjaro), Meru (Arusha), Shume (Tanga) and Sao Hill (Iringa) for the period of five years (May, 2012 - July, 2017). The problems addressed are diseases caused by pathogens and those caused by inadequacies of various requirements from the soils. Many of the diseases have been soil-borne which gave rise to foliar symptoms, with Armillaria root rot being in the lead. Occasionally, the ravage by insect pests was encountered at Sao Hill and Meru Forest Plantations. These problems threaten the productivity of the plantations against the objective for the plantations of supporting the much needed industrialization process. To a large extent, these problems which were recorded in the visited plantations were noted to be accelerated by two phenomena namely; climate change and taungya. Therefore, this paper describes the problems addressed in the plantations; the steps adopted in addressing them, key findings and recommendations for achieving better plantations.
Adherence to Land use Zones in implementation of participatory Village Land use planning policy in Ulanga District in Tanzania
(AJEE, 2021) Naiposha, M. N.; Nzunda, E. F.
Proper implementation of land use planning may contribute to solving land use problems, including land use conflicts. Adherence to land plans depends on many factors which vary according to circumstances of a study area. The present study aims to contribute to knowledge needed to enhance adherence to zones in land use planning. Specifically, the study had two objectives, namely: (1) to examine extent of adherence to village land use plans and, (2) to assess factors that influence adherence to the village land use plans. Data were collected through household survey of 120 respondents from two villages, key informants, focus group discussions, field observation, review of guidelines for land use planning, village land use plans (VLUPs), district land use framework, books and journal articles. GPS points to examine adherence to VLUPs were analyzed using Kappa statistic. Factors influencing adherence to VLUPs were analysed using binary logistical regression and pair-wise ranking. There was moderate adherence with kappa coefficient of 0.47 and 0.49 for Iragua and Kichangani villages. Larger families with higher incomes were more likely not to adhere to land use plans. Immigrants were also more likely not to adhere to plans than residents. Corruption of village leaders, lack of follow up by village leaders on implementation, lack of awareness on land use plans and underestimated population growth were the key prioritised factors that resulted in non-adherence of land use plans. The study recommends a review of the zoning standards to enhance sufficiency of allocated zones; privatization of grazing land; establishment of communal grazing management plans; and involvement of communities in developing complete plans. The study also recommends close monitoring; reviewing of VLUPs; enforcement of good governance; establishing incentive schemes; offering continuous education and developing participatory implementation framework.
Adoption status and management of agroforestry systems and technologies by communities: a case study of Kasulu district, Kigoma, Tanzania
(2013) Chija, Mary Ndengahe
This study was done to assess and document the adoption status of Agroforestry systems and technologies in Kasulu District, Kigoma Region, Tanzania. Specifically, the study determined the current status of Agroforestry adoption by the communities in the district, identified agroforestry systems and technologies practiced, determined the factors influencing the adoption of agroforestry and the measures that would be required to improve its adoption in the district. Data collection methods involved reconnaissance, household and field surveys. Data collected were summarized and analysed using the SPSS and SAS Computer software. The findings show that by 2011, the adoption status of Agroforestry in Kasulu District was 91%. Three Agroforestry systems namely Agrosilviculture, Agrosilvopasture and Silvopasture are currently in use in the district with the Agrosilvicultural system (42%) being the most adopted system. Eight Agroforestry technologies were found to be adopted by the farmers of which the Homegardens (26%), Mixed intercropping (25%) and Integrated tree/pasture management (17%) technologies were the most adopted technologies. Brachystegia spiciforms and Pericopsis angolensis were the most preferred indigenous tree species whereas Senna siamea, Eucalyptus maidenii and Elais guinensis were the most preferred exotic species. Mangifera indica, Citrus sinensis and Persea americana were currently the most preferred fruit trees. Income generation, farmer’s awareness and access to extension services were some of the most critical factors that enhance farmers adoption of agroforestry, whereas lack of knowledge, land shortage and lack of monetary capital were the most limiting factors. Based on the results and discussion it was concluded that the extent of agroforestry adoption in the study area was high. It was then recommended to encourage farmers to maintain the existing agroforestry adoption reached, provide germplasm of the improved tree species, educate and sensitizing farmers to have individual or community tree nurseries that can be accessed easily by farmers.
The aftermath of environmental disturbance on the critically endangered Coffea kihansiensis in the Southern Udzungwa Mountains, Tanzania
(Sagepub.com, 2011-01-01) Rija, A. A.; Shombe, H. N.; Mwamende, K. A.
The endemic Coffea kihansiensis was monitored in the Kihansi gorge over a three year period following diversion of the Kihansi River underground for hydropower production and its associated catastrophic effect on the gorge biota. We assessed the growth status of the coffee population by measuring, along an altitudinal gradient, the height and diameter of 450 randomly selected coffee stems in 18 sampling plots covering ca 1800 m2. We also collected microclimatic data to compare with that collected prior to river diversion. Coffee infestation by parasites was examined by recording the number of stems with signs of infestation. There was no significant change in size of Coffea kihansiensis during the study period. However, the size for immature plants differed between the two sites; LWF and UCF. Parasite infestation differed between reproductive age classes and was greater at lower elevation (800 – 850 m a.s.l …
Agroforestry in reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+): Africa, where are you?
(Eckhard A. & Maxi D. (eds.), 2015) Andrew, S.
This paper highlights the position of agroforestry in post-Kyoto arrangements, particularly the mechanism for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+). It summarizes the prospects to mitigate global climate change and adaptation, especially in Africa, where the majority of agroforestry systems occur. Since long agroforestry is known as a management approach to sustain farms and landscapes, enhance livelihoods of smallholder farmers, and to promote biodiversity conservation, particularly in the tropics. This is possible by constant supply of multiple important goods and services, and by increasing land productivity and rural incomes. However, the importance of agroforestry has received recently high attention from both industrialized and developing countries. It provides sustainable and low-cost opportunities to mitigate climate change by reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs) concentrations in the atmosphere, and as natural adaptation measure to climate change effects. Current global prediction models show that area under agroforestry management will increase substantially. Thus, it reveals even more opportunity to capture and store CO 2 (C sequestration) and to enhance GHGs sinks. In conclusion, this paper highlighs efforts to incorporate agroforestry into national REDD+ strategies in Africa.
Allometric Biomass and Volume Models for Cashewnut Trees
(E&D Vision Publishing Ltd, 2018-05-12) Zahabu, E.; Mlagalila, H.; Katani, J. Z.
Allometric Biomass and Volume Models for Coconut Trees
(E&D Vision Publishing Ltd, 2018-05-12) Zahabu, E.; Mugasha, W. A.; Malimbwi, R. E.; Katani, J. Z.
Allometric Biomass and Volume Models for Tectona Grandis Plantations
(E&D Vision Publishing Ltd, 2018-05-12) Zahabu, E.; Mugasha, W. M.; Katani, J. Z.; Malimbwi, R. E.; Mwangi, J. R.; Chamshama, S. A. O.
Allometric models for estimating tree volume and aboveground biomass in lowland forests of Tanzania
(International Journal of Forestry Research, 2016) Mugasha, Wilson Ancelm; Mwakalukwa, Ezekiel Edward; Luoga, Emannuel; Malimbwi, Rogers Ernest; Zahabu, Eliakimu; Silayo, Dos Santos; Sola, Gael; Crete, Philippe; Henry, Matieu; Kashindye, Almas
Models to assist management of lowland forests in Tanzania are in most cases lacking. Using a sample of 60 trees which were destructively harvested from both dry and wet lowland forests of Dindili in Morogoro Region (30 trees) and Rondo in Lindi Region (30 trees), respectively, this study developed site specific and general models for estimating total tree volume and aboveground biomass. Specifically the study developed (i) height-diameter (ht-dbh) models for trees found in the two sites, (ii) total, merchantable, and branches volume models, and (iii) total and sectional aboveground biomass models of trees found in the two study sites. The findings show that site specific ht-dbh model appears to be suitable in estimating tree height since the tree allometry was found to differ significantly between studied forests. The developed general volume models yielded unbiased mean prediction error and hence can adequately be applied to estimate tree volume in dry and wet lowland forests in Tanzania. General aboveground biomass model appears to yield biased estimates; hence, it is not suitable when accurate results are required. In this case, site specific biomass allometric models are recommended. Biomass allometric models which include basic wood density are highly recommended for improved estimates accuracy when such information is available.
Allometric models for prediction of above- and belowground biomass of trees in the miombo woodlands of Tanzania
(Elservier, 2013-08-02) Mugasha, W. A.; Mugasha, W. A.; Eid, T.; Bollandsås, O. M.; Malimbwi, R. E.; Chamshama, S. A. O.; Zahabu, E.; Katani, J. Z.
Miombo woodland is a significant forest type occupying about 9% of the African land area and forms a dominant vegetation type in many southeastern African countries including Tanzania. Quantification of the amount of carbon stored in forests presently is an important component in the implementation of the emerging carbon credit market mechanisms. This calls for appropriate allometric models predicting biomass which currently are scarce. The aim of this study was to develop above- and belowground allometric general and site-specific models for trees in miombo woodland. The data were collected from four sites in Tanzania and covers a wide range of conditions and tree sizes (diameters at breast height from 1.1 to 110 cm). Above- and belowground biomass models were developed from 167 and 80 sample trees, respectively. The model fitting showed that large parts of the variation (up to 97%) in biomass were explained by diameter at breast height and tree height. Since including tree height only marginally increased the explanation of the biomass variation (from 95% to 96–97% for aboveground biomass), the general recommendation is to apply the models with diameter at breast height only as an independent variable. The results also showed that the general models can be applied over a wide range of conditions in Tanzania. The comparison with previously developed models revealed that these models can probably also be applied for miombo woodland elsewhere in southeastern Africa if not used beyond the tree size range of the model data.
Allometric tree biomass and volume models in Tanzania
(Department of Forest Mensuration and Management Faculty of Forestry and Nature Conservation Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Malimbwi, R.E.; Eid, T.; Chamshama, S.A.O.
None
Allometric tree biomass and volume models in Tanzania
(Department of Forest Mensuration and Management, Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Malimbwi, R. E.; Eid, T.; Chamshama, S. A. O.
The publication is one of outputs of the project on "Development of biomass estimation models for carbon monitoring in selected vegetation types of Tanzania” under the Climate Change Impacts, Adaptation and Mitigation (CCIAM) programme at Sokoine University of Agriculture(SUA), The publication has multiple contributors who participated in different different specializations. The main objective of the project was to develop models and methods for assessing and monitoring carbon stocks in Tanzania required for implementation of REDD+ at local as well as national levels. Vegetation types/tree species covered were miombo woodlands, lowland and humid montane forests, mangrove forests, thicket, Acacia-Commiphora woodlands, forest plantations (Pinus patula and Tectona grandis), and coconut, cashewnut and baobab trees. For some vegetation types, both biomass and volume models were developed while for others only biomass models have been covered. For some vegetation types, both biomass and volume models were developed while for others only biomass models have been covered. The book may be useful for scholars who wish to engage in tree allometric modelling. The developed models may also be used in REDD+ estimations and other iicarbon trade mechanisms. It may also be useful to the practicing forester for determination of forest stocking levels needed for forest planning.
Alternative pricing mechanism of teak forest plantation saw-logs in Tanzania
(Sokoine University Of Agriculture., 2007) Chamuya, Nuru-Kauye Athuman
The main objective of the study was to analyze the various pricing mechanisms that can be used in setting prices for teak saw-logs and the prevailing market characteristics influencing prices in Tanzania. Primary data on the factors influencing auctioning and stumpage appraisal and, teak saw-logs production and trading costs were collected through questionnaires and field observations from Mtibwa and Longuza teak forest plantations, FBD head offices and inners of the various auctions conducted between 1998/1999 and 2005/2006 in the country. The visited stakeholders also provided data on the royalty fee and ublic auctioning stumpage values of the teak saw-logs. Secondary data were obtained from various reports and documents. From the data collected, the appraisal stumpage values of the teak saw-logs were calculated and, ompassions were made between royalty fee, public auctioning and appraisal stumpage value pricing mechanisms to know which one among the three generates more revenues to the teak saw-logs producers and, what market structure favours each pricing mechanism. The results of the study indicate that the Tanzania government’s effort to generate more revenues through selling her teak saw-logs by public auctioning instead of royalty fee has significantly increased revenues. However, conditions that favour pure competitive market structure, in which public auctioning operates effectively are lacking. The study further found out that there is a significant difference among the stumpage values of the logs obtained through royalty fee, public auctioning and appraisal stumpage value pricing mechanisms. For example, in the last auctioning (2005/2006) conducted at Mtibwa plantation forest the royalty fee and public auction stumpage values of the teak saw-logs were TAS 55 759/m3 and TAS 108 000/m3 respectively; while, the appraisal stumpage value of the same logs was TAS 219,000/m3. This shows that the royalty fee stumpage value was 51% of the public auctioning stumpage value and only 25% of the appraisal stumpage value. The auctioning stumpage value was only 41% of the appraisal stumpage value. However, the appraisal stumpage value was 73% of the FOB price (TAS 300 000/m3) of the 2005/2006 auctioned teak saw-logs. This information shows that the appraisal stumpage value of the teak saw-logs has the highest value compared to royalty fee and public auctioning pricing mechanisms and, it estimates the timber value at production site closer to its market value. Therefore, in order to generate more income through timber selling the government of Tanzania could consider charging her timber by applying the appraisal stumpage value pricing mechanism. It is ommended to use the appraisal stumpage values as a floor price when auctioning publicly timber and, a review of the training syllabus for certificate and diploma courses to incorporate the application of stumpage appraisal timber pricing echanism, which many foresters are not conversant with.
Altitudinal distribution and damage of Cypress aphid (Cinara cupressivora; Homoptera: Aphidae) on Cupressus lusitanica (Pinales: Cupressaceae) in SUA training forest, Olmotonyi, Arusha
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Yakuti, Salum
Altitudinal distributionand damage intensity of Cypress aphidon Cupressuslusitanicaof different age classes was investigated at SUA Training Forest. Abundance of natural enemies of Cypress aphidat different age classes (young 1-10years, middle 11-25 and old >25years) and altitudinal ranges (lower 1700-1930 m.a.s.l, middle 1931-2125 m.a.s.l and upper 2126-2300 m.a.s.l) was also determined. Systematic sampling was used, whereby every 5 th tree along the row of the study plot/block was considered as a candidate. Five shoots in lower, middle and upper crown part of selected tree were randomly cut and put in labeled zipped plastic bags for laboratory assessment of the aphids and natural enemies. Results from this study indicated that Cypress aphid was un-equally distributed throughout the altitudinal ranges and age classes. The abundance of Cypress aphid per twig was 19.6, 24.9 and 33.7 individuals for lower, middle and higher altitude respectively and was significantlydifferent (p<0.05 and f=6.57). Also the abundance of Cypress aphid was 33.7, 16.6 and 18.8 per twig for young, middle and old age classes, respectively although the abundance was not significantlydifferent (p<0.05 and f=10.82). Mean damage intensity was 37.62%, 22.02% and 27.03% for young, middle and old trees respectively and the differences was significant (p<0.05 and f=7.04). Younger treesat higher altitude were more attacked by Cypress aphid. Three natural enemies namely Pauesiajuniperunum, Hoverfly larvae and Spider miteswere detected on the affected twigs but they were verylow in numbers. Therefore, in order to reduce the damage and spread of Cypress aphid in Olmotonyi, it is recommended that mature trees must be harvested and release Pauesiajuniperunum bio-control agent which has given positive results in Kenya and Malawi. Key words: Cinaracupressivora, Cupressuslusitanica,altitude, age classes and damage intensity.

Browse

Browsing College of Forestry, Wildlife and Tourism by Title