Determinant Factor of Plant Species Diversity in the Organic Agriculture-Dominated System of Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Organic agriculture in the Gedeo Cultural Landscape, Southern Ethiopia, supports high plant species diversity compared to other tropical agricultural systems. The study identified 234 native and non-native plant species across three agroecological zones, with richness and evenness indices indicating significant biodiversity. Plant diversity was influenced by agroecological zone and farmer wealth status, with lowland areas and wealthier farmers showing higher tree species diversity, while midland zones exhibited greater shrub diversity. Herbaceous species diversity remained unaffected by these factors. The research highlights the potential of organic agriculture for biodiversity conservation and suggests that agroecological-based strategies could enhance both plant conservation and livelihoods in such systems.

Mebrate, A., Kippie, T., & Zeray, N. (2021). Determinant Factor of Plant Species Diversity in the Organic Agriculture-Dominated System of Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia. International Journal of Ecology, 2021, 1–12. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/2919260