Abstract
Acacia senegal (L) Wild, is an important indigenous multipurpose tree species known for its gum
arabic product. The species has diverse ecological and economic benefits. Despite its benefits,
information on its stand status and yield potential is lacking particularly in the northern Ethiopia. Here
we studied the stand status and yield economics of A.senegal at Abderafi, north western Ethiopia. A
total of 52 sample plots of size 20 x 20 m were used for counting matured trees at 300m intervals by
laying parallel transects with 500m regular interval. Smaller sample plots of size 5 x 5 m nested in the
center of each plot were used for measuring saplings. Besides, the gum yield ha-1 year-1 was estimated
by multiplying the mean A.senegal stem density ha-1. The result revealed that A.senegal is the
dominant tree species constituted 70.70% of the vegetation with the mean density of 356 stems ha-1.
The population structure of A.senegal showed an inverted J-shape suggesting stable and healthy
population. Also, the mean number of A.senegal trees from which gum arabic can be produced with
DBH ≥ 4cm found 211stems ha-1 indicating adequate number of matured trees for gum production.
Accordingly, 190 to 422Kg ha-1 year-1 of gum arabic could be harvested that could worth $US ca 950
to 2110 ha-1 year-1. More interesting, the regeneration status of A.senegal trees in the stand showed a
huge potential to enhance the sustainable utilization of gum arabic from the natural stand in the study
area.
Tatek Dejene, Omarsherif Mohamed, Haile Adamu. (2014) STAND STATUS AND YIELD ECONOMICS OF ACACIA SENEGAL (L) WILD AT ABDERAFI, NORTH WESTERN ETHIOPIA, Asian Journal of Agriculture and Biology, Volume 2, Issue 2.
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