Floristic characteristics, abundance and distribution of mammals in Zaraninge forest, coast region, Tanzania,Master dissertation, University of Dar es salaam, Dar es Salaam

Floristic characteristics, abundance and distribution of mammals were assessed in Zaraninge Forest between 1994 and 2001. The Modified-Whittaker Nested Quadrat Method revealed the presence of 25 tree species (>10 cm DBH) from a 1.5 ha plot Coastal forest endemic tree species were eighteen. Tree species diversity was low (H'=0.804) and Simpson's index was also low (D=0.296). Species-area curve stabilized at 1.1 ha with 24 species. Tree density was 328 trees ha-1 and basal area 19.9 m2 ha-1. The population structure showed a negative exponential curve, suggesting the forest to be healthy and in good condition. In temps of IVI values, Scorodophloeus fischeri dominate in the forest; therefore the forest was classified as a Scorodophloeus dry evergreen coastal forest. Using the Line transect method 15 large mammal species were counted. For anthropoid species, blue monkey density was highest (125tSE 28.8 individuals km2) and for the antelopes, the sum (23.4J:8.7). Sixteen small mammal species were recorded using the Trap line method; three were near endemic, six threatened and eight in CITES list. From four selected habitats, trap success was highest in the Farmland and the Woodland was most species rich. The highest similarity of species was observed between the Woodland and Farmland and lowest between the Forest and Swamp. The forest is due to be part of the Proposed Saadani National Pack, thus threat due to anthropogenic activities will be minimal. The study concludes with recommendations for the Park authority to improve protection of the forest and educate the local communities on how to carry out afforestation and livestock rearing projects in order not to rely on the forest products.