No abstract

Sustainable management of economically and ecologically important tree species such as Faurea rochetiana merely depend on acquiring reliable information on growth dynamics and structure in response to the changing climate. Formation of the growth ring boundaries is pre-requisite for conducting several denroclimatology studies. Hence, the objective was to verify the formation of growth ring boundaries of F. rochetiana. Fifteen sample discs were examined for macroscopic and microscopic wood anatomy features and compared with IAWA list of microscopic features of hardwood identification for wood anatomy characterization. The result revealed that the studied tree had indistinct growth ring boundaries. Consequently, the studied tree is not a potential candidate for further denderoclimate studies.

Aloes are a multi-functional perennial with or without woody trunks. It is extensively distributed in sub-Saharan Africa, Madagascar and other South Africa nearly islands. Forty six aloes species were recognized in Ethiopia out of which 24 species are endemic. Multi-stage sampling was employed to select representative Kebeles for both bio-physical and socio-economic surveys. Transect lines and square quadrants were laid out between 1Km and 600 meters respectively. Six aloe species were found in Hammer district of the southern Ethiopia. Their multi-functionality was assessed through conducting focus group discussions with different members of the pastoral and agro-pastoral communities at six discrete kebeles of the district.The pastoral and agro-pastoral communities were inhabited in this arid and semi-arid areas were often considered as communities with fewer livelihood options. Thus, sustainable utilizations of multi-purpose perennials such as: aloes is playing very crucial role for widening the livelihood options. Fewer studies regarding distribution, ecology and benefits have been conducted so far in Ethiopia and it is highly recognizable. However, as the potential of the resource and expected outputs for nearby communities still further research and adoption of proven technologies are needed to conduct so as to devise successful utilization strategies.