Growth, Yield and Survivability

background

This study seeks to determine the best management practices for the miombo woodland in Chongoni Forest Reserve, Malawi.

Research Goals & Methods

The authors used plots with four silvicultural practices-complete coppice, coppice with standard, selective thinning, and a control plot-to determine which method would have the best outcome for tree species diversity and natural regeneration of trees.

Background

Quarry dust is widely reported to have adverse effects on both human health and plant community structure, particularly resulting in decreased diversity and ecosystem functions. Therefore, it is critical to examine and monitor the interactions between these dust particles and vegetation.

The authors explore the literature on two native tree species of commercial value in central Africa:Milicia excelsa and Milicia regia. Known locally as iroko, the authors note that exploitation of the trees have led to a decrease in its abundance. Finally, the authors argue that because the species are recognized as having economic importance, more research is needed on the species' ecologies in order to sustainably manage them.

This article examines Gnetum africanum, a species of commercial interest in Central African forests. The authors Iinvestigated the importance of light in Gnetum africanum dispersal and regeneration by analysing the effect of canopy gaps on Gnetum africanum in different forest types. Ther determined that Gnetum africanum is a shade tolerant species that needs shade to germinate and prefers low light levels as juveniles.