Zoological Sciences

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Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Banja Woreda Awi Zone, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Ayalew Kassahun; Ermias Lulekal
Ethiopia has a rich history of utilizing traditional medicinal plants to address a broad spectrum of human and livestock ailments. The current research on medicinal plants was carried out to record indigenous and local plant-based medicinal knowledge of local communities, preservation techniques, and the dangers that jeopardize these medicinal plants in Banja- Woreda, Western Ethiopia, Amhara Regional State. A total of 137 respondents (ranging from 20 to 80 years old) were chosen to provide information on medicinal plant usage from 9 sampled kebeles. Out of these, 6 male key informants were purposefully selected based on suggestions obtained from elders members of the communities. Other participants (64 males and 67 females) were randomly chosen. Semi-structured interviews, field observations, and group discussions were utilized to gather data. The data were analyzed using preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, and the informant consensus factor. Additionally, fidelity level calculations were conducted to evaluate the significance of a specific medicinal plant for the intended purpose. A total of 57 distinct medicinal plant species were gathered and identified. 49 species (85.96%) were utilized for treating human ailments, 3 species (5.26%) for treating livestock ailments, and the remaining 5 species (8.77%) for both human and livestock ailments. Among all the medicinal plant species, the majority of them (33.33%) were, herbs and the least of them (7.02%) were climber species. The most commonly used parts of the plants were the leaves (35.53%) followed by roots (27.63%). The primary method of preparation was crushing (55.06%), followed by squeezing (13.48%) of different plant parts. Oral administration 42(57.53%) was the most popular route of administration, followed by dermal administration 29(39.72). Most of the medicinal plants (49.12%) were harvested from the wild, and the efforts of local people to conserve them were limited. To address the rapid loss of medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge, we recommend urgent measures to be taken by concerned government institutions. A strategic approach should include systematic awareness creation through schools, local institutions, and community leaders. Awareness creation should be supported by concrete conservation and development activities, such as providing technical support for selecting, domesticating, propagating, and cultivating threatened medicinal plants.
Ethnobotanical Study of Traditional Medicinal Plants in Siyadebr and Wayu Woreda, North Shewa Zone, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Assefa Belachew; Ermias Lulekal
This research was carried out to record and document medicinal plants and associated indigenous plant use knowledge of the local community in Siyadebr and Wayu Woreda, of Amhara Reginal State, Ethiopia. The ethnobotanical data were collected by conducting prepared semi-structured interview items with 96 informants. In the district of these informants, 62 were males and 34 were females. Of these, 8 key informants were selected purposively. The data were also collected by using field observation, group discussion, and specimen collection. Determination of Informant Consensus Factor, Preference Ranking, Direct Matrix, and Fidelity Level were performed. A total of 87 medicinal plant species distributed in 78 genera and 40 families were documented. Out of these 87 plants were used to treat 58 species human ailments, 11 species livestock ailments and 18 species both human and livestock ailments. 45.98% of medicinal plants were harvested from the wild environments. Of the total medicinal plant species, 35 were herbs. The family Asteraceae and Fabaceae occupied the first rank with 8 species. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves 34.16%. Freshly harvested plant parts 61% preparations were mostly used for remedy preparation. The most widely used method of preparation was crushing 20.87%. The common route of administration recorded was oral 58.79% followed by dermal 26.92%. Agricultural expansion, fire wood, fence, and construction were the major threats to medicinal plants of the study area. Thus, a coordinated in-situ and ex-situ conservation measure is mandatory to save the fast-declining medicinal plants of the study area.
Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Alefa District, Central Gondar Zone ,Amhara Regional State,Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Meiraf Getahun; Ermias Lulekal
An Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants was conducted to document and identify medicinal plant based indigenous knowledge of people in Alefa District, Central Gondar Zone, Amhara Regional State, Ethiopia. A total of 140 informants were selected to collect Ethnobotanical data. Out of these 26 key informants were selected purposively while general informants were selected randomly. Data were collected by using semi-structured interviews, group discussion, field observation and guided field walk and market serveys. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentage and frequency: informant consensus factor, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking and fidelity level.The results show that a total of 108 medicinal plants species belonging to 94 genera and 53 families were collected and identified. Family Solanaceae and Poaaceae were contributed the highest number of species. A total of 74 human and livestock ailments were recoreded. From the total of 108 medicinal plants species (70.37%) were used to treat only human ailments.(11.11%) were used to treat livestock ailments only and (18.51%) for treating both human and livestock ailments. The most frequently used plant parts were leaves (39.15%).From the total of 108 medicinal plants specie (38.88%) were herbs,(30.55%) were shrubs,(22.22%) were trees and (8.33%) were climbers.The most widely used method of remedy preparation was crashing (38.16%).The most commonly reported route of administration was oral constituting (59.11%). Disease categories with relatively higher ICF values were dermatology ailments (0.81). The most serious threats to medcinal plant species were agricultural expansion. Therefor prior and special attention to preserving highly threatened medicinal plants is recommended.
Modelling on the Distribution, Habitat Ecology, Suitability and Abundance of Djaffa Mountains Guereza (Colobus Guereza Gallarum, Neumann, 1902) from Ahmar Mountains, Eastern Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Chala Adugna; Afework Bekele
Understanding the distribution, abundance, niche use and habitat suitability of little-known primate species in the human dominated landscape is key to guide the conservation and management efforts. Djaffa Mountains guereza (C. g. gallarum) is endemic primate of Ethiopia with little information on its ecology and distribution. This study aims to provide the most basic ecological aspects of C. g. gallarum focusing on its distribution pattern, population size, habitat suitability and conservation risks. The field study was conducted between 2020 and 2021 both during wet and dry seasons. Population estimate was carried out using line transects method covering a distance of 75.9 km in four forests with varied ecologies. Ecological niche modelling was developed by multiple algorithms. Projected climate of the Representative Concentration Pathways in two scenarios and periods was used. The potential suitable habitats for C. g. guereza and C. g. gallarum were modelled, identified anthropogenic refugia, analyzed protected anthropogenic refugia, and computed niche overlap. During the surveys, 73 guereza clusters were encountered, resulting in 20,061 individuals (109.6 individuals/km2). The habitat suitability modelled using MaxEnt for C. g. gallarum predicted about 1,336 km2 within its range. The predicted climate niche for C. g. guereza was 168,731 km2, and for C. g. gallarum, it was, 69,542 km2 as predicted using weighted mean ensemble models. However, closely related taxa of Ethiopia‘s Guereza exhibit divergent niches. Of the anthropogenic refugia calculated, 53.70% and 39.76% were found within Ethiopia‘s protected area network for C. g. gallarum and C. g. guereza, respectively. Habitat ecology analysis showed that height of the trees, variation of tree height and importance value influenced C. g. gallarum occupancy. The conservation of C. g. gallarum is crucial due to its fragmented habitat and population, necessitating further monitoring and habitat restoration efforts. The study suggests determining C. g. gallarum's geographic distribution and collecting data along the common distribution border between it and other Guereza taxa to check for sympatry and hybridization.
Assessment of Soil and Water Conservation Practices and Challenges in Case of Meta Robi Woreda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-02) Hundessa Tolera; Habte Jebessa
Due to a combination of human and natural factors, there has been a global increase in the severity of land degradation. The purpose of this study is to assess soil and water conservation practices and challenges in Oromia Regional State, “Meta Robi Woreda”. The research was conducted from November 2022 to July 2023. Both qualitative and quantitative research approaches were used in this descriptively designed study. Questionnaires, focus group discussions, and personal and field observation were the main data collection tools. A total of 181 questionnaires were given to the farmers in Kimo Dima, Baka, and Baka Koricha Kebeles using a systematic random selection technique. Because of their extremely vulnerable ecological sites to soil erosion, the three kebeles were purposefully chosen. For DA experts, stakeholders, educated people, and other experienced individuals, purposeful sampling was employed. SPSS was used to analyze the data. Descriptive analyses were performed on the collected data. Of the farmers in the sample, 33.1% thought that deforestation was the main factor causing soil erosion, whereas only 12.2% thought that overpopulation was the main factor. The result indicated that 44.8% of the respondent farmers rated erosion as high in their farmland and 4.4% of them rated erosion as low in their farmland. Training of soil and water conservation structures in the study sites was primarily done by NGOs, particularly „SLM‟. In the study area, farmers use a number of traditional and improved soil and water conservation structures on the farmland, which was statistically significant (P = 0.000). Among the major factors, the majority of the sampled farmers repeatedly mentioned household size, age, gender, topography, deforestation, overgrazing, educational status of farmers, and land size as the major problems in the study area. Destroying built terraces by various farmers was the other series issue. Generally, these problems and challenges hinder the effectiveness of soil and water conservation in the study area. To maintain soil and water conservation structures, farmers should not have to release their livestock freely to grazing lands, and stakeholders should have to check and look after the constructed soil and water conservation structures.
Diversity and Distribution of Traditional Medicinal Plants in Hadero Tunto Zuria Woreda, Kembata Zone of Central Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-07) Desta Abebe; Awol Assefa
Medicinal Plants has long history of use in Ethiopian and in the world for treatment of different kinds of human and livestock diseases and by its effectiveness of healing ability. 80% of Ethiopian peoples of rural area depend on traditional medicine. As reported in many studies approximately 800 species grown in Ethiopia are used to relief about medicinal conditions. The study was carried out in Hadero Tunto Zuria Woreda, Kembata zone, Central Ethiopia. The study was conducted from March 13 to June 30 2023 G.C. Three kebeles namely ( Ha Chacho, Mendoye and Galbe) were selected purposively . The main objective of this study was to document list and use of medicinal plants, distribution and indigenous knowledge of the people in the study area. The purposive and random sampling methods were used to select the three selected kebeles and informants, semi- structured interview was used to collect information from informants. There was diversity of MP from herb up to large trees i.e shrubs were used by (28%) and herbs by (42%) are more dominantly used when compared to trees (19%) and grasses. Also from plant parts leaves and root were used (42%) and (24%) other plants. There was no even distribution of medicinal plants in the different climatic zones, the major plant distribution were seen in high land, mid land and low land (50%) followed by mid land and low land together, high land and mid land (17%).Majority of medicinal plants were mainly found in the forest habitat and in cultivated areas as well as in market places. From 100 medicinal plants identified 72% were used to treat human ailment followed by 16% were used to treat livestock and 12% for both. Some medicinal plants were used to treat both livestock and human disease. The reason to select the area’s were, the potential wealth for the presence of many medicinal plants reported to use the MP to alleviate many human and livestock aliments. Descriptive statics, graphs, tables methods were used to analyse the results. The result was different from kebele to kebele because of conservation habit difference of MP in each kebeles, attitude difference and chance of key healer presence in each kebeles, attitude difference to acquire the knowledge from parent and other, this was the matter for result difference in age group, gender. There is a need for to enhancing the conservation of medicinal plants and bring attitudinal change of young generation to use medicinal plants and interest to learn the knowledge of medicinal plant from elders. The government bodies need to give prior attention in the study area towards Exsitu and insitu conservation of medicinal plants and bring attitudinal change of youth generation for continuity of the knowledge across generations.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Hiv/Aids and Voluntary Counseling and Testing Among Sayint General Secondary School Students, South Wollo, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Tilahun Adugna; Asnake Desalegn
Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic infections disease caused by HIV virus. AIDS is a pandemic disease that occurs worldwide. The major mode of transmission of HIV/AIDS worldwide is through sexual contacts. Other routes of transmission include transfusion of infected blood and blood products, occupational transmission, prenatal transfusion and others. The objective of this research was to assess knowledge, attitude and practice towards HIV/AIDS and VCT among Sayint general secondary school students, South Wollo Ethiopia. The study was an institutional based cross-sectional study conducted on 377 study participants recruited using stratified random sampling techniques. Pre-tested structured questionnaires were used to collect data on KAP from the study participants. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Prior to data analysis data were entered into Epi info, double checked for completeness and exported to SPSS. From the binary logistic regression model fitted, residence and grade level significantly predicted the outcome variable (knowledge). Participants from urban areas had six times more knowledge than those from rural areas (AOR, 6.52; CI, 2.22 – 19.12; p = 0.001), and as grade level increased the knowledge about HIV/AIDS also increased (Grade 10, AOR, 2.7; CI, 1.15 – 6.36; p = 0.023), Grade 11 (AOR, 3.69; CI, 1.47 – 9.30; p = 0.005) and Grade 12 (AOR, 8.55; CI, 2.41 – 30.27; p = 0.001). The odds of having positive attitudes towards HIV/AIDS was significantly lower among study participants who obtained information from their parents was significantly lower than those that obtain information from other sources ( p = 0.02). Married individuals had three times more positive attitude towards HIV/AIDS than those who were single (AOR, 3.98; CI, 1.10 – 14.56; p= 0.037). Study participants from urban areas had better knowledge towards VCT than those from rural areas (AOR, 8.476; CI, 2.598 – 27.658; p = 0.0001). As age increased by one year the odds of having positive attitude towards VCT also increased (AOR, 1.266; CI, 1.027 – 1.560; p= 0.027). Similarly, married individuals had positive attitude towards VCT compared to single individuals (AOR, 3.985; CI, 1.851 – 8.579; p = 0.0001). But, females didn’t have positive attitude towards VCT compared to males (AOR, 0.407; CI, 0.240 – 0.692; p= 0.027). Proper practice towards VCT increased with increasing age (AOR, 1.279; CI, 1.044 – 1.568; p = 0.018). Proper practice towards VCT was higher for participants who obtained information through literature than those who obtained information though radio (AOR, 2.069; CI, 1.143 – 3.747; p = 0.016). Generally, practice towards HIV/AIDS and VCT in this study was low despite better knowledge about the diseases. Creation of awareness on practice towards HIV/AIDS and VCT is recommended.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasitic Infections (IPIs) and Associated Risk Factors Among Patients Attending Health Care at Dejen Primary Hospital, Dejen Town, East Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-06) Simachew Demissie; Fitsum Tigu
The prevalence of IPIs is high in poor and developing countries, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa including Ethiopia. The study was conducted at Dejen primary hospital located in Dejen town, East Gojjam Zone; Amhara Region, Ethiopia aimed to assess the prevalence of IPIs and associated risk factors among patients attending health care at the Hospital. A cross sectional study was carried out at Dejen primary hospital from December, 2022 to June, 2023. A total of 414 patients with clear symptoms of IPIs and visited in the hospital as an outpatient department during the study period were involved. Socio-demographic data were collected from the study participants through face-to-face interviews by well-structured questionnaires and stool samples were taken by medical laboratory experts. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 25 software and Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to identify the associated risk factors with IPs identified by stool examination. The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites in the study area was 43.3%. The protozoan parasites E.histolytica and G.lamblia with 26.1% and 9.2% respectively were the leading parasites identified in the district. Soil helminthes parasites were also identified among the study participants. Among the soil helminthes Hookworm, Taenia spp. and Strongyloides stercoralis were identified. The intestinal parasites were strongly associated with occupation, the habit of eating raw vegetables, swimming in river and the source of water they drink. Unemployed and daily labors [AOR:2.942;CI:1.167-7.416] and [AOR:4.254; CI:1.023-17.69] respectively; swimming in rivers [AOR:0.315;CI: 0.111-0.895], eating raw vegetable with [AOR:2.64;CI: 1.02-6.79] and source of drink water with [AOR:2.35;CI: 1.055-5.236] were significant risk factors. Based on the study findings the researcher recommended that the concerned bodies should create awareness about personal hygiene and intestinal parasites, mode of transmission, control and prevention; create awareness about the associated risk factors among the society.
Studies on Fish Market Chains and Livelihoods of Fishers for Sustainable Fish Stocks:the Cases of Lake Tana and three Other Rift Valley Lakes in Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-04) Kidanie Misganaw; Brook Lemma
The fishing subsector in Ethiopia is one of the potential intervention areas to increase employment, ensure food security with quality protein supply and alternative sources of income generation to improve the livelihoods of rural communities in a sustainable way. However, the natural stocks of the fishes in Ethiopian waters are depleted by illegal and unregistered fishing practices that use undefined market chains. As a result, this project was designed to study the contemporary status of the fishing industry in Ethiopia along with the market chains and to find out how this is related to the depletion of stocks (overexploitation). For this purpose, the study areas were purposefully selected based on their high fishery productions, accessibility to market outlets (big cities like Addis Ababa and Bahir Dar) and the general fishing operations, as these systems reflect what is practiced in other minor fishing operations systems. In the primary data collection of this study 597 individuals were involved. The study examined and analyzed the fish market value chains from 2018 to 2020. The data were gathered through fish catch analyses, field observations, structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, key informants, and other secondary data sources that examined numerous published and unpublished but official reports of regional fishery offices and those found in the archives of the fishery section of the Ministry of Agriculture. These were analyzed using both descriptive and econometric analytical methods that employed ordinary least squares (OLS) estimation method and others. It was found out that fishing is the first major source of income accounting for 59.3%, 67%, 68.9% and 73%, of fishers in Lakes Chamo, Tana, Hawassa and Ziway, respectively. Monthly incomes from fishing fluctuated from 350 to 15,000 Birr per month, with an average income of 2,039 ETB per month (equivalent to 45 USD). The average for all the study lakes is just a little less than 5,000 ETB. However, there is a significant difference (P<0.001) in the level of mean monthly income from fish in the ETB. Linear OLS regression analyses showed that the number of reed boats, gillnets, land owned for crop productionand fishing trips were the determinant factors significantly influencing the volume of fish produced. All fishers and assemblers engaged in the study did not have fishing licenses, and 65.2% of market actors were not licensed in fish trading, which probably contributed to unhealthy competition in the fish market. Transportation of fish from the collection points to registered storage sites has shown a clear association with licensed fish traders (P<0.005), while a considerable amount of catch entered the market using illegal and unregistered routes bypassing standard storage facilities. Fishers shared financial benefits rated 46.82%, 3.18%, and 50% from assemblers, cooperatives, and retailers, respectively. Fish retailers and assemblers obtained the highest gross profits of 1,620 and 1,572 ETB/Qt (quintal), respectively, whereas fishers and cooperatives obtained lower gross profits of 1,514 and 1,050 ETB/Qt, respectively. Fishers, assemblers, retailers, cooperatives, wholesalers, hotels, and consumers were important fish market intermediaries. Members of the fish market channel clearly indicated that the chain is predominantly traditionally split and that there are too many market networks. Illegal fishing gear and practices are the most serious barriers constraining fish value addition among fishers. Other constraints included agricultural land expansion all the way to the shorelines in Lakes Tana between 1986 and 2018 (1954km2), Ziway 1990 to 2020 (1308.42km2), Hawassa 1987 to 2019 (121.7km2), and Chamo 1990 to 2019 (30.65km2); meanwhile in the same year, degradation of fish breeding habitats (bushes and wetlands) decreased in Lakes Tana by -1480km2, Ziway by -1201km2, Hawassa by -47.7km2 and Chamo by -247.67 km2 Based on the findings, it is recommended that the policy of free-for-all should be scraped off and be replaced by agreed-upon management system, all stakeholders from fishers to administrators should take part in awareness programs, alternative fish productions technologies should be developed (e.g., aquaculture), re-structuring the market chains with the authorization of regulated and licensed operators must be put in place.
Growth and Yield Related Performances of Faba Bean(Vicia Faba L.) Varites Towards to Drought Stress
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-07) Tariku Gashabezaw; Awol Assefa
Fava bean is one of the best sources of protein grain used in human nutrition, as well as a feed. Ethiopia is the second-biggest producer of faba bean, following china. However the production of Fava bean has remained very low compared to the potential production due to living and non-living stresses combined with poor crop management methods. Thus, this research aimed at to examine the impacts of drought pressure on the development and yield performance in different fava bean collected from different agro-ecological zones of Ethiopia. The soil was prepared from soil, manure and sand with the proportion of 2:1:1 ratio. After the field capacity is determined with different moisture regimes of the field capacity level, such as 100%, 65% and 25% were determine morphological biometrics as well as grain yield were determined. Both shoot and root biomasses were dried in the drying over at 70 °C for 24 hrs. Growth measurements was started to collecting data from January 2023 up to April 2023 with across the different water regimes were significant. Analysis of variance result showed that, the measured parameters; number of node, number of tillers, productive tiller, leaf area at different time, number of pod per plant, yield per plant, rhizome dry biomass, steam dry biomass, total dry biomass, total fresh biomass, shoot fresh biological mass, root fresh biomass at different moisture levels were significant (p<0.05). Crop height, girth, number of nodule, number of node, rhizome dry biomass, steam dry biological mass, total dry biomass, total fresh biomass, steam fresh biomass, rhizome fresh biomass, number of tillers, productive tillers, green leaf number, leaf area at and yield related measurements evaluated in the shade house. There was no significant difference in plant height among the different fava bean accession at P Value .212. These findings emphasize the importance of effective moisture management strategies in maximizing fava bean productivity and underscore the need for further research to enhance drought resilience in this crop at 188ml (25%)moisture level.
Prevalence of Malaria in Out Patients at Enticho Hospital, Ahferom Woreda, Central Tigray, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08) Mihret Gebrehiwot; Tegenu Gelana; Araya Gebresilassie
Malaria is a protozoan disease caused by parasites of the genus plasmodium and it is one of the leading causes of illness and death in the world. The objective of the present study was to show the prevalence of malaria infection among individuals who visited Enticho hospital. For this case descriptive cross-sectional study from September 2020 to June 2020 and retrospective data of the last five years (2015-2019) was collected to determine the prevalence of malaria in the study area. Three hundred eighty-four (384) malaria suspected participants were involved in this study by using single population proportion formula. Demographic and sanitation practice information’s were gathered with pre-tested and semi-structured questionnaires and interview. Moreover, blood samples were collected and processed with professional laboratory technologists of the Enticho hospital. Statistical data were encoded to SPSS data sheet as well as Microsoft Excel and analyzed accordingly in considering p<0.05 as statistically significant. The overall prevalence of malaria infections was 25% in the cross-sectional data and 21.14% in the retrospective data. Plasmodium species identified in the blood samples of the participants were P. falciparum and P. vivax. The prevalence of malaria infections were statistically associated with gender X2= 18.115, (p=0.00), having of indoor grass and plants (P = 0.033, OR = 1.684) having of stagnant water near house (P = 0.000, OR = 26.253) and frequency of participants to use bed nets in sleep time (P = 0.000, OR = 5.117). Malaria was more prevalent and one of the major health problems in population of the study area. Therefore, health professionals should give awareness on environmental hygiene and means of malaria prevention mechanisms to population of the study area.
The Impacts of Eucalyptus Expansion on Food Security in Meta Welkite District, West Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08) Urgaa Geda; Bikila Warkineh
The fast-growing Eucalyptus tree is widely practiced and has become part of the farming system, particularly in the central highlands of Ethiopia. This study was designed to investigate the impacts of eucalyptus expansion on food security and crop production, the extent to which Eucalyptus plantation expansion on crop production and to examine farmers’ (respondents') perception fears resulting from Eucalyptus expansion on Farmland and Food Security in the future in Meta Welkite District of the West Shewa Zone. For the study, samples from four Kebeles located within the Woreda were collected due to their large coverage of the dramatic expansion of Eucalyptus farming and hereby high Eucalyptus pole production, incidences of serious competition of eucalyptus with other uses, and the presences of road accessibility for data collection. The sample size was determined by Cluster random sampling and Stratified random sampling technique. Then the sample size was calculated using 10% for each four kebeles and half of the result is sample size was used. The data was gathered by mainly questionnaires, field observation, and interviews and analyzed by different statistical techniques (including frequencies, percentages, ranks and SPSS program). The study through questionnaire, interview, and field observation proved that the farmers in the study area, preferred Eucalyptus plantation expansion on their fertile crop land than cultivating crops at a very fast rate because of the ability to grow in the diversified ecological zone, multi-purpose use, rapid growth and higher biomass production of the tree in a short period for the requirement of fire wood, construction materials and for its highest income generation than crop yields. These benefits which are obtained from the Eucalyptus plantation forced the farmers to expand the plant on their crop lands. Crop fields are decreasing from year to year which is resulting in the reduction of food crops in the locality. The Eucalyptus' expansion effects are Competition effects (rooting and shading impact on crops for nutrients, water, air, sunlight), allelochemicals effects (chemicals that influence the germination, growth, survival, and reproduction of other plants through interfering in cell division, energy metabolism, and nutrient uptake) and long rotation period to generate economic income resulted in decreased crop productivity and occurrence of food security then famine. If the plantation expansion continues in the present rate, the remaining could be covered in a short period. The future food security of the community as well as the next generation of the area would be under question.So all the concerned bodies in the area should take part in stopping of the expansion of Eucalyptus on fertile crop land.
Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants in Wogde Wereda Southwollo, Northeast, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-07) Yimam Endrie; Ermias Lulekal
An ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants was conducted in Wogde Woreda between September, 2022 and June,2024.The general objective of the study was to document the medicinal plants and associated knowledge on their use, preparation and other aspects of indigenous and local knowledge of the local people. 88 informants were selected using systematic sampling technique and of them 11 key informants were selected purposely. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, group discussions and guided field walk. Priority ranking, paired comparison, direct matrix ranking and informant consensus factor (ICF) were used in data analysis. Eighty medicinal plant species of which 43 (53.75% wild), 17 (21.25% home gardens), and 20 (25% cultivated) habitats were recorded. A total of 58 (72.5) species were mentioned for the treatment of only human ailments, 5 species for livestock and 17 (21.25%) for both human and livestock ailments. Most popular families were Solanaceae 6 (7.5%), Both Fabaceae and Lamiaceae 5 (6.25%) species each. In terms of growth habit 36 (45%) species were herbs. Leaves (47.6%) and roots (20.4%) were frequently used plant parts. Pounding (28.57%) and powdering (22.72%) were most frequent mode of preparations. Oral (51.2%) and dermal (29.3%) constitute common route of administration. The highest ICF values were linked to ailments associated with abdominal pain and gastro intestinal problems (0.8) and ailments related to acute sickness (0.71). Preference ranking showed that Melia azedarach was the most preferred species for the treatment of wound. The most cited threats to medicinal plants in the area were agricultural expansion. Cultivation of medicinal plants in home gardens, creating discussion forum for both modern and traditional medicine practitioners regarding preparation, preservation, dosage and application of traditional medicine is recommended.
Analysis of Indigenous Production Method and farm Based Varieties of Ensete Ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman in three Major Enset Growing Kebeles of Dedo District, Jimma Zone, South Western Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-03) Bikila Gadisa; Bikila Warkineh
Enset (Ensete ventricosum) is a multipurpose crop that is cultivated solely in Ethiopia, mainly in the south and southwest part of the country. It provides a variety of services. Every part of the crop is extensively exploited. The objective of this study was to examine farm-based biodiversity and the traditional Enset production method in three kebeles of Dedo District in the Jimma Zone in the southwestern of Ethiopia. Purposive sampling was applied for selecting the study kebeles, and the simple random approach was used to choose home informants based on the potential for Enset growing households. A total of 188 households were used. The data were collected using questionnaires, key informant interview, field observation and focus group discussion. Then the data was analysed using SPSS 20 Software and microsoft excel. In the present exploration 28 Enset local varieties have been identified. Among the commonly occurring landraces, Nobo, Fia, Molge and Buriti were recognized to be the most widespread landraces in the study area. Most of the farmers highly practiced mono-culturing (73.93%) growing. Enset was predominantly produced in almost all kebeles which accounts about 23% compare to other crops and the indigenous farmers used Enset crops most of the time for food accounts (78.18%) animal feed (9.57%) and medicine (2.12%). Where the corm and the pseudostem are the most important sources of food. The types of food from these parts are ‘Kocho and‘Bulla or Etino. Enset bacterial wilt disease was the most common problem in surveyed area.
Wild Edible Plant Species Diversity and Utilization in Sokoru District, Jimma Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-07) Bonsa Fikadu; Bikila Warkineh
The protection of wild edible plant species in the Jimma zone of the Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia, has received little attention, despite the fact that wild edible plants are crucial during times of food crisis. Before it is lost forever, gathering and recording ethnobotanical knowledge is an essential and pressing undertaking. Sokoru District communities use wild food plants and this project aims to explore and document their uses. Before choosing a particular study area, the Office of Agriculture, elders, and kebele administrative personnel were consulted during a preliminary survey that was conducted to gain an overview of the socioeconomic and cultural elements of the communities in the Sokoru districts that were under study. To calculate the sample size, systematic and purposeful random samplings were employed. The diversity of wild edible plant species found in the Sokoru district was discovered and recorded for the study through semi-structured interviews, group discussions, observation, and key informant-guided field observation. A total of 14 WEPs were reported in the study region; of these, 10 families were gathered and documented. Moraceae, Myrtaceae, Flacourtiacea, and Rosaceae (two species) are the plant families that include the greatest number of wild edible plants; the remaining plant families only contribute one species each. Of the 14 wild edible plant species that have been identified for the study, 10 (71.43%) have been shown to have multipurpose roles, while 4 (28.57%) have a role limited to food in the area. Out of the ten (71.43%) multipurpose wild edible plant species, two (14.29%) were utilized for food and firewood, two (14.29%) for food and construction, three (21.42%) for food and charcoal, two (14.29%) for food and medicinal, and one (7.14%) for revenue value generator. In Sokoru district, ten key informants were randomly selected from 14 informants to rank the six most threatening factors of wild edible plant species. The results showed that overgrazing, wild fires, and construction and building ranked fourth, fifth, and sixth on the list of threatening factors of WEPs in the study area, while agricultural expansion, charcoal making, and firewood collection ranked first, second, and third, respectively.
Ethnobotanical Study of Medicinal Plants Used by the Community of Woliso District, South West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08) Tesfaye Tilahun; Tegenu Gelana
This ethnobotanical study explores the traditional knowledge and use of medicinal plants by communities in the Woliso District, South West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Despite the area's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, documentation of local medicinal plants remains scarce. This research seeks to address this gap by identifying and cataloging plant species, their applications, and preparation methods utilized by community members. Data collection involved 62 randomly selected general informants (31 males and 31 females) and 38 traditional healers (33 males and 5 females) through questionnaires, focus group discussions, and direct observations. Various analytical methods were employed, including Jaccard's similarity index, informant consensus factor, fidelity level, and statistical tests like ANOVA and t-tests.The findings revealed 96 medicinal plant species from 42 families and 85 genera, used for treating 67 ailments in humans and livestock. Specifically, 82 species (85.42%) were for human health, 6 species (6.3%) for livestock, and 8 species (8.33%) served both purposes. Herbs were the most common growth form; while the Asteraceae family had the highest species count. Leaves were the most utilized plant part, with squeezing being the predominant preparation method. Oral administration was the most frequent route, accounting for 59.56% of uses. Factors such as gender, age, and education influenced knowledge of medicinal plants. Major threats to these plants included agricultural expansion and firewood collection, with no conservation initiatives currently in place. Raising awareness about the importance of conserving medicinal plants is essential to protect traditional knowledge and biodiversity in the area.
Assessing the Impact of Eucalyptus Plantation Expansion on Agricultural Productivity in Selected Kebeles of Dano Woreda, West Shoa Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08) Dejene Gebre; Bikila Workineh
This study was mainly aimed to investigate the impact of eucalyptus plantation expansion on agricultural productivity.To achieve the objectives, mixed (quantitative & qualitative) research design was employed. Data were gathered from 252 target populations of Dano woreda farmers. The findings, therefore, suggest that farmers prefer cereal-crop productivity on their fertile land than Eucalyptus plantation. Many dwellers gave suggestion about the negative impact of the Eucalyptus plantation expansion on the environment; but some of them practicing the plant expansion till now. The farmers were only following the income generated from the selling of the cereal-crop product. They gave attention to the ecosystem degradation which is resulting by Eucalyptus plantation and the redaction of food crops in this area year by year. Therefore, the study recommended that the government agencies responsible for land use planning and environmental management, as well as to non-governmental organizations working on sustainable agriculture and land use practices. There could also findings and recommendations with eucalyptus plantation owners and farmers to raise awareness and promote collaborative solutions &keeping the maximum distance of eucalyptus and crops is good for better agricultural production.
Diarrhea Prevalence in Children Under Five Years of Age in Addis Ketema Sub City: the Case of Millennium Health Center
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08) Melese Bayu; Asenake Desalegn
Diarrheal diseases remain a major public health issue globally, particularly affecting children under five years old in low-income regions like Sub-Saharan Africa and Ethiopia. In Addis Ababa, the Millennium Health Center in Addis Ketema Sub City serves as a crucial facility for addressing this problem. This study aims to assess the prevalence of diarrhea among children under five years of age attending care at the Millennium Health Center from 2011 to 2015 E.C. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data from medical records at the Millennium Health Center. The study revealed gender-related similarities in diarrhea prevalence, with no significant differences observed between male and female children. The study included 45,970 children under five years old admitted between 2011 and 2015 E.C. Data on diarrhea cases, treatment types, and seasonal variations were analyzed to determine prevalence rates and trends. Out of 45,970 admitted, 2,249 cases of diarrhea were recorded, resulting in an overall prevalence rate of 4.89%. The prevalence varied annually, with rates ranging from 3.58% to 6.81%. Notably, there was a decline in prevalence from 2011 to 2014, followed by a significant increase in 2015. Treatment for diarrhea consistently included Zinc and Oral Rehydration solution (ORS), with a minor addition of ORS-only treatment in 2014. The study revealed significant fluctuations in diarrhea prevalence among children under five at the Millennium Health Center. Despite improvements in the initial years, the rise in prevalence in 2015 highlights ongoing challenges. The consistent use of Zinc and ORS underscores effective management strategies, but the increase in cases suggests a need for enhanced preventive measures. The increase in prevalence in 2015 E.C. warrants further investigation to address potential gaps in healthcare delivery and environmental factors.
Assessment of Factors Affecting Honey Production in Tole District, South West Shewa Zone, Oromia Regional state, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-09) Hana Getahun; Emana Getu
Honey production in Ethiopia exists in many areas. Ethiopia as the country contains a bit of natural forest, optimal environmental condition and different species of flora which are high potential for honey production. However, deforestation and expansion of exotic plants hinders beekepers to benefit from honey production. This study was conducted in Tole district south west shewa , Ethiopia to asses the factor affecting honey production in 2024. The primary aim of this study was to identify factors affecting honey production in three randomly selected kebeles including Tulu Taji, Gonana Bubbisa and Bantu of Tole District. Data were collected from the total of 138 respondants that is 46 from each kebele. Primary and secondary sources of data were used for this study. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. The semi structured interview and structured questioniare were employed. Focal group dicussions and formal field survey method were used to collect the primary data.The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics using statistical package for the social science ( SPSS) version 23 . Results of house hold survey showed that the dominant honey production practice in the study area was the use of traditional hive. The cost of traditional hive was cheaper than and modern hive . Major factors affecting honey production include cost of modern hive (86.23%) expansion of exotic plant species (79.71%), deforestation through climatic change (87.68%), agro chemical (60.15%), pest and predators (60%), lack of awarness (83.3%) and aggressive properties of honey bee (70%). However, deforestation and expansion of exotic plant species by large affected honey production in the study area. The expansion of this exotic plant species decreased biodiversity significantly and directly affect the quantity and quality of honey production in the area. Regarding cost of modern hive the policy should focus on creating access to modern honey bee techologies. It is good if awarness will be given to the community on ways of optimal honey production by minimizing the factors affecting the business which can be done by organizing training either by government extension office and/or NGO.
Assessment of Fruit Bats Population, Activity Pattern and Food Preference in Mutulu Town, Oromia Region, Ethiopia
(Addis Ababa University, 2024-08) Lemma Gizaw; Bezawork Afework
Population size, activity pattern, and feeding habits Rousettus aegyptiacus fruit bats in mutulu town, west shoa, Oromia region, Ethiopia. Data was collected during wet and dry seasons. Direct observations were used as the species count. The number of individual was identified, such as adult and juveniles were identified, by using torch light and direct observation as well as their activity pattern and feeding habits were identified. The observations were made in mutulu town construction site that are abandoned and used by fruit bats. The results showed that a total of 200 individuals were observed of which 98 were adult and 102 were juveniles during wet season. The result during dry season showed that 84 adult and 82 juveniles. The activity pattern showed that feeding was the highest (75%) during the wet season and 48.2% during dry season followed by other activity. The feeding habits also showed that they mainly were observed feeding on fruit, nectar and insect. Bats play important ecological roles as prey and predator, arthropod suppression, seed dispersal; pollination, material and nutrient distribution recycle emphasized the need for conservation.

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