Study Of Woody Plant Species Diversity And Socioeconomic Importance : The case of Boke Salt Landscape: A Volcanic Crater Lake in Semi-Arid Drylands of Borana, Southern Ethiopia

Dryland ecosystems cover more than one third of the earth's land surface and are home to about one-fourth of the earth's population. Biological diversity are heterogeneously distributed through out the earth's surface.However, they are facing crucial problems for survival. The biggest challenge in the drylands of the globe in general and that of Ethiopia in particular is environmental degradation aggravated by anthropogenic activities. However, there are areas which have economical and social benefits at local, national and international level and need due attention for conservation. Boke salt landscape is an area formed by volcano, where its vegetation come up through succession and has multipurpose functions. Hence, this study provides the detailed analysis of woody plant species diversity and identifies plant communities which are important for the conservation purpose. It also provides comprehensive analysis on plant-soil relationship across altitudinal gradient and soil-altitudinal gradient relationship. Furthermore, it provides important information on the socio-economic aspects of the Boke salt landscape. Appropriate management and research recommendations are also forwarded