Population structure, phenological characteristics, and fruit yield potential of Ximenia americana in Quara district Alitash National Park West Gondar Zone of Ethiopia

Abstract X. americana L. is an important and multipurpose woody plant tree species. Due to the multipurpose uses of the species, it is over-exploited by the nearby communities for different purposes. Additionally, the species also have poor seed viability, and seed germination as well as insufficient pollination caused by long distances between male and female trees. This research was hypothesized whether there was a good distribution and regeneration status of X. americana or not based on the diameter class distribution. This study aimed to examine the population structure, phenological attributes, and fruit yield potential of X. americana in Quara district, Northwestern Ethiopia. The study was carried out by establishing 30 sample plots (20 m × 20 m) systematically. Further, 10 × 10 m subplots were laid out under the main plot quadrants for sapling and seedling count. Thirty reproductively matured trees with easily visible crowns were selected to record phenological characteristics and fruit yield. Quantitative data were determined by computing density, frequency, dominance, importance value index, and Pearson correlation. The findings revealed that X. americana appeared in the study area at about 488.33 population densities per hectare. An inverted J-shaped diameter class distribution was observed. X. americana flower initiation starts in March and sheds its fruit at the end of June. On average, 12.26 kg of fruits per tree were recorded with a maximum of fruits in mid-diameter size class trees. To ensure the species sustainably in the area, anthropogenic factors like deliberate fire, deforestation, and overgrazing should be properly managed.