Plant species diversity, structure, and regeneration status of Dengago Mountain in Eastern Hararghe Zone, Ethiopia

The study was conducted at Dengago Mountain in Eastern Ethiopia to identify and analyze species' diversity, population structure, and regeneration status along altitudinal gradients. A systematic sampling procedure was employed with 6 transect lines and 45 quadrats established along the transect lines. Data were collected on the tree, shrubs, climbers, and herbaceous plants along altitudinal gradients. The vegetation data were statistically analyzed in one-way ANOVA using R software (version 4.0.5). A total of 49 species within 23 families and 34 genera were identified of which 42.8% were shrubs, 40.8% trees, 10.2% climbers, and 6.1% tree/shrubs. Tiliaceae was the dominant and Lower Altitude had significantly higher plant density than MA and UA. On the other hand, Middle altitude had a significantly higher Shannon's diversity index value and the Jaccard's similarities index showed the highest species similarity between MA and UA. The diameter and height class distribution of the population exhibited an inverted J-shape and the regeneration status of the forest was in fair condition. The study identified the presence of anthropologic disturbances and suggest the conservation the of Dengego mountain.