Assessment of the distribution of Macarangakilimandscharjca tree species in Mukura Forest Reserve. a case study of Rusebeya and Mukura Sectors in Rutsiro District, Western Province, Rwanda.

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Date
2014-08
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Kampala International University, School of Engineering and Applied Science
Abstract
Macaranga Kilimandscharica (Umusekera) family Euphorbiaceae is one among the tree species which occur in Mukura forest reserve which is threatened by local people due to its uses such as fire wood, charcoal , timber ,medicine, and poles for house construction . Despite that, it is being threatened within Mukura forest reserve yet its distribution, density and habitat status are unknown. This study was conducted within Mukura forest to find out the distribution in the different habitats to know its status and prevent its extinction. The objectives of this study were to identify the habitat type in which Macaranga kilmandscharica occurs (open forest, secondary forest and others) , to identify the likely effects to the survival of Macaranga kilmandscharica in the different habitats, to determine the relationship between the density at DBH (Breast height Diameter) of Macaranga kilmandscharica and habitat type .Different materials and methods such as decameter for measuring distances, digital camera for taking photos, colored tape to mark the plots, data sheets to record the data collected on the field, DBH tape for measuring the diameter at breast height (DBH) of trees and notebook, pen and markers used. Two transects of 1km each and Plots of 50x 50m on alternate sides were established along the transects at 50m interval. The results from this study revealed that Macaranga kili,nandscharica occurs in secondary forest, open forest, cleared, burned zone, fern as well as marsh. Fire wood collection, grass collection, grazing Macaranga cutting, mining and other tree species cutting were identified as human activities disturbing the survival of Macarangakilimandscharica within Mukura forest, while the natural disturbance was presence of Sericostachys scandens. It has determined that the DBH of Macaranga kilimandscharica degraded habitats is significantly different from non-degraded habitats (f =5.34, p = 0.000 123, df= 5 and 207 p< 0.05 Anova single factor).
Description
A research dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of a degree of bachelor of science in environmental management of Kampala International University
Keywords
Macarangakilimandscharjca tree species, Mukura Forest Reserve, Rusebeya and Mukura Sectors, Rutsiro District, Western Province, Rwanda.
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