Population Patterns and Environmental Determinants of Warburgia ugandensis (Sprague) in Northern Tanzania

Warburgia ugandensis, a medicinal tree native to East Africa, faces declining populations due to unsustainable harvesting and habitat degradation. A study across northern Tanzania's mountainous regions revealed that its population density varies significantly with land use and elevation, with forest reserves and higher elevations (2001–2500 m a.s.l) supporting the highest densities. Environmental factors such as temperature, soil organic carbon, pH, and nitrogen were found to be critical determinants of its distribution. Spatial mapping identified population hotspots around Mt. Kitumbeine and Mt. Kilimanjaro, emphasizing these areas as priorities for conservation. The findings underscore the need for targeted management strategies that consider both environmental parameters and land-use types.

Mollel, L. K., Munishi, L. K., & Giliba, R. A. (2025). Population Patterns and Environmental Determinants of Warburgia ugandensis (Sprague) in Northern Tanzania. African Journal of Ecology, 63(7). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.70101