serikali ya mapinduzi zanzibar care tanzania and department

SERIKALI YA MAPINDUZI ZANZIBAR 

CARE TANZANIA AND DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCIAL CROPS, FRUITS AND 

FORESTRY 

NGEZI – VUMAWIMBI FOREST RESERVES BIODIVERSITY INVENTORY 

REPORT 

PREPARED BY 

C. L. NAHONYO, L. B. MWASUMBI, C. A. MSUYA, C.A. MASAO, T. B. SUYA AND 

C. SHING’WENDA 

DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY AND MARINE BIOLOGY 

UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM 

P. O. BOX 35064 

DAR ES SALAAM, TANZANIA 

nahonyo@uccmail.co.tz 

JULY 2005 

Table of Contents 

Item 

Page

Title………………………………………………………….……………………... i 

Table of Contents………………………………………………………………….. ii 

List of Tables………………………………………………………………………. iv 

List of Figures……………………………………………………………………… v 

List of Maps………………………………………………………………………... v 

List of Appendices…………………………………………………………………. vi 

Acknowledgements………………………………………………………………… vii 

Map showing position of Pemba relative to Tanzania mainland……………….….. viii 

Map of Zanzibar showing position of Ngezi –Vumawimbi Forest Reserves.……... ix 

Executive Summary………………………………………………………………... x 

1.0 INTRODUCTION……………………………………………………………... 1 

1.1 Overview of Tanzania biodiversity………………………………………… 2 

1.2 Brief history of Ngezi –Vumawimbi study area…………………………… 3 

1.2.1 History of Ngezi forest………………………………………………… 3 

2.0 THE SURVEY AREA…………………………………………………………. 5 

2.1 Location……………………………………………………………………. 5 

2.2 Scope……………………………………………………………………….. 5 

2.3 Accessibility………………………………………………………………... 5 

2.4 Topography………………………………………………………………… 5 

2.5 Geology and hydrology...………………………………………………….. 6 

2.6 Soils………………………………………………………………………... 6 

2.7 Climate……………………………………………………………………... 6 

2.8 Vegetation………………………………………………………………….. 9 

2.9 Fauna……………………………………………………………………… 9 

2.10 Land tenure, land use and habitats………………………………………... 10 

2.11 Human demography……………………………………………………… 10 

3.0 METHODS………………………………………………………………….…. 11 

3.1 Vegetation Sampling……………………………………………………….. 11 

3.2 Vegetation Mapping……………………………………………………….. 12 

3.2.1 Interpretation and field verification………………………………….. 12 

3.2.2 Digitatization and rectifications……………………………………… 12 

3.3 Fauna inventory……………………………………………………………. 12 

3.3.1 Reconnaissance survey………………………………………………. 12 

3.3.2 Fauna sampling………………………………………………………. 12 

3.3.2.1Mammals……………………………………………………….. 16 

3.3.2.2 Small mammals………………………………………………… 16 

3.3.2.3 Birds……………………………………………………………. 18 

3.3.2.4 Reptiles………………………………………………………… 18 

3.3.2.5 Amphibians………………………………………………….…. 18 

3.3.2.6 Fish………………………………………………………….…. 18 

3.3.2.7 Invertebrates……………………………………………………. 18 

3.4 Socio economic survey…………………………………………………….. 19 

3.5 Legend to threatened and endangered species of flora and fauna…………. 20 

4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION………………………………………………. 21 

4.1 Vegetation………………………………………………………………….. 21 

4.1.1 Synopsis of the vegetation types………...…………………………… 21 

4.1.2 Description of vegetation types……..……………………………….. 23 

4.1.2.1 Natural moist forest……………………………………… 23 

Item 

Page 

4.1.2.2 Moist forest mixed with exotic species………………….. 24 

4.1.2.3 Microsites of open pools/ponds in moist forests………… 24 

4.1.2.4 Coastal dry evergreen forest on coral rag………………... 24 

4.1.2.5 Coastal evergreen dry forest on sandy soils……………… 25 

4.1.2.6 Coastal evergreen thicket………………………………… 25 

ii

4.1.2.7 Fresh water swamp forest………………………………... 25 

4.1.2.8 Fragmented Remnants…………………………………… 26 

4.1.2.9 Erica Vegetation…………………………………………. 27 

4.1.2.10 Mangrove Thickets……………………………………... 27 

4.1.2.11 Fresh water swamp in open land……………………….. 28 

4.1.2.12 Rice field landscape and other crops fields…………….. 28 

4.1.3 Indicator species and criteria to diagnose ecological condition.. 28 

4.1.4 Evaluation of plant biological resources………………………. 32 

4.1.5 Plant species diversity…………………………………………. 34 

4.1.6 Medicinal Plants………………………………………………. 34 

4.1.7 Conservation values of the forest……………………………… 36 

4.1.8 Conservation Status of the forest……………………………… 37 

4.1.9 Endemic, endangered and introduced plant species…………... 40 

4.2 Fauna……………………………………………………………….. 44 

4.2.1 Mammal occurrence and distribution…………………………. 44 

4.2.2 Relative abundance of animals………………………………... 52 

4.2.3 Animal species richness and diversity………………………… 53 

4.2.4 Important habitats for animals………………………………… 53 

4.2.5 Animal movement and migration……………………………... 54 

4.2.6 Birds…………………………………………………………… 54 

4.2 7 Reptiles………………………………………………………... 55 

4.2.8 Amphibians……………………………………………………. 55 

4.2.9 Endemic species of animals…………………………………… 56 

4.2.10 Threatened and endangered animal species………………….. 57 

4.2.11 Introduced species of animals………………………………... 58 

4.2.12 Fish…………………………………………………………… 59 

4.2.12.1 Fisheries resources……………………………………… 59 

4.2.12.2 Fish species occurrence, endemism and diversity in 

Ngezi……………………………………………………. 59 

4.2.12.3 Fish movement and migration……………………….…. 60 

4.2.12.4 Fish habitats and spawning areas…………………….…. 60 

4.2.12.5 Threatened species of fish (IUCN threat categories)…… 61 

4.2.12.6 Fishing and fish production…………………………….. 62 

4.2.12.7 Threats to fisheries resources…………………………… 63 

4.2.12.8 Fisheries conservation………………………………….. 63 

4.2.3 Invertebrates (Lepidopterans and Odonata)…………………... 63 

4.4 Socio-economic Survey…………………………………………….. 65 

4.4.1 Demographic characteristics………………………………….. 65 

4.4.2 Crops grown…………………………………………………... 66 

4.4.3 Livestock keeping…………………………………………….. 67 

Item 

Page 

4.4.4 Resources utilization………………………………………….. 67 

4.4.5 Threats to biodiversity………………………………………... 69 

4.4.6 Future management of Ngezi Forest Reserve………………… 70 

4.4.7 Socio economic recommendations…………………………… 72 

6.0 EVALUATION OF BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND THEIR 

CONSERVATION VALUE………………………………………………... 74 

7.0 POTENTIAL THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY……………………….. 74 

8.0 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS………………………………….. 78 

9.0 REFERENCES…………………………………………………………. 83 

iii

Terms of reference…………………………………………………………………. 90 

Appendices…………………………………………………………………………. 91 

Plates……………………………………………………………………………….. 135 

List of Tables 

Item 

Page 

Table 2.1: Human population distribution by Shehia in the study area, 

Pemba…………………………………………………………… 11 

Table 2.2: Human population in villages in the immediate vicinity of Ngezi 

forest, Pemba……………………………………………………………….. 11 

Table 3.1: Description of transects used to sample plants, small mammals, 

reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates in Ngezi - Vumawimbi Forest 

Reserves, Pemba…………………………………………………………... 15 

Table 4.1: Synopsis of main vegetation types in Ngezi – Vumawimbi 

Forest reserves, Pemba…………………………………………….. 21 

Table 4.2: Summary of tree data for the different vegetation types in Ngezi, 

Pemba……………………………………………………………….. 22 

Table 4.3: Land cover/Land use of Ngezi – Vumawimbi Forest Reserves and 

surrounding areas, Pemba…………………………………………………… 23 

Table 4.4: Common herbaceous species occurring in seasonally water logged 

pools in Ericaceous bushland in Ngezi forest, Pemba………………………. 27 

Table 4.5: Woody herbs and other herbaceous vegetation occurring in fresh water 

swamps in open land surrounding Ngezi forest, Pemba……………………. 28 

Table 4.6: Trees used for commercial timber harvesting and other uses in Ngezi 

forest, Pemba……………………………………………………………… 33 

Table 4.7a: Some plant species with medicinal values in Ngezi forest reserve, 

Pemba……………………………………………………………………... 34 

Table 4.7b: Records of medicinal plants also available in Ngezi forest used 

traditionally as primary source of health care…………………………….. 35 

Table 4.8a: List of new records of plant species from Ngezi forest, Pemba.. 37 

Table 4.8b: List of new records of non-vascular (mushroom) plant species 

from Ngezi forest, Pemba…………………………………………... 40 

Table 4.9: Endemic species of the Zanzibar-Inhambane regional centre of 

endemism including Lowland and Eastern Arc Forests occurring in Ngezi 

forest and surroundings in Pemba…………………………………………. 41 

Table 4.10: Threatened plant species of Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba……... 43 

Table 4.11: Animals and animal signs observed during foot count in Ngezi – 

Vumawimbi forest reserves, Pemba………………………………………. 45 

Table 4.12: Total number of fauna specimens captured in traps (bucket pitfalls, 

snaps, Sherman’s, cage) in Ngezi forest, Pemba…………………………. 52 

Table 4.13: Relative abundance of some vertebrate groups and species in Ngezi - 

Vumawimbi forest reserves, Pemba………………………………………. 53 

Table 4.14: Distribution of different habitats in Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest 

reserves, Pemba…………………………………………………………… 54 

Table 4.15: Endemic and near endemic fauna species and sub species of Pemba… 56 

Table 4.16: New record of fauna of Pemba………………………………………... 57 

Table 4.17: Threatened and endangered animal species listed in IUCN redlist, and 

species listed in CITES Appendices found in Ngezi – Vumawimbi forest 

reserves and surrounding areas, Pemba…………………………………… 58 

Table 4.18: Some animal species introduced to Pemba and Zanzibar……………... 58 

Table 4.19: Threatened fish species (IUCN) reported as occurring in Pemba and 

iv

Zanzibar…………………………………………………………………… 61 

Table 4.20: The reported disadvantages experienced after the initiation of total 

protection programme at Ngezi forest…………………………………….. 70 

Table 4.21: The declared suggestions/comments offered by the respondents 

regarding their views for future management of Ngezi forest…………….. 71 

Table 6.1: Summary of potential threats to biodiversity in Ngezi - Vumawimbi 

forest reserves, Pemba……………………………………………………………... 77 

List of Figures 

Item 

Page 

Figure 4.1: Tree density (trees ha -1 ) shown against basal area (m 2 ha -1 ) for 

the six sampled vegetation transects in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba………. 30 

Figure 4.2: dbh versus number of trees (stems) in each of the six sampled 

transects in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba………………………………………….. 30 

Figure 4.3: Height range (in metres) versus number of trees in six sampled 

transects in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba………………………………….. 31 

Figure 4.4: Number of vervet monkeys observed on 6 foot count transects 

sampled in Ngezi – Vumawimbi forest reserves, Pemba…………………. 46 

Figure 4.5: Total catch of various taxonomic groups of fauna using bucket 

pitfalls, snap and live traps in Ngezi forest, Pemba………………………. 52 

Figure 4.6: The declared age classes of the 200 respondents from the study 

villages combined…………………………………………………………. 66 

Figure 4.7: Reported origins of the respondents in the studied villages……. 67 

Figure 4.8: Reported activities/occupation of the respondents in the studied 

villages…………………………………………………………………….. 68 

Figure 4.9: Declared uses of the forest products by the respondents from 

the studied villages…………………………………………………………. 68 

List of Maps 

Item 

Page 

Map 1: Tanzania mainland and Zanzibar Islands………………………………….. viii 

Map 2: Location of the study area…………………………………………………. ix 

Map 3: Digital elevation model……………………………………………………. 7 

Map 4: Ngezi – Vumawimbi Forest Reserve…………………….………………… 8 

Map 5: Ngezi – Vumawimbi Forest Reserve; vegetation Cover 13 

Map 6: Sample points……………………………………………………………… 14 

Map 7: Animal foot count transects……………………………………………….. 17 

List of Appendices 

Item 

Page 

Appendix 1a: An annotated check-list of the Flora of Ngezi Forest, Reserve, NE, 

Pemba………………………………………………………………………………. 91 

Appendix 1b: Relative densities and relative frequency………………….. 106 

Appendix 1c: Reported plant species and their main uses in the studied 

villages around Ngezi forest, pemba………………………………………... 112 

Appendix 2: Trap success from bucket pitfalls, snap traps and live traps 

(Sherman’s and cage) in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba……………………... 115 

v

Appendix 3: A checklist of mammals recorded at Ngezi forest reserve and 

the surroundings, Pemba……………………………………………………. 118 

Appendix 4: A checklist of birds recorded at Ngezi Forest Reserve and the 

surroundings, Pemba Island………………………………………………………... 119 

Appendix 5: A checklist of reptiles recorded at Ngezi Forest Reserve and 

the surroundings, Pemba……………………………………………………. 125 

Appendix 6: A checklist of amphibians recorded at Ngezi forest reserve 

and the surroundings, Pemba……………………………………………….. 126 

Appendix 7a: Marine fish recorded in nine villages around Ngezi forest….. 126 

Appendix 7b: Freshwater fishes around Ngezi forest………………………. 128 

Appendix 8a: Butterflies sampled in six transects in Ngezi forest, Pemba… 129 

Appendix 8b: Moths sampled in six transects in Ngezi forest, Pemba……... 130 

Appendix 8c: Odonata sampled in six transects in Ngezi forest, Pemba…... 131 

Appendix 9a: Checklist of Lepidoptera (butterflies and Moths) from Ngezi 

Forest Reserve, Pemba……………………………………………………… 131 

Appendic 9b: Checklist of Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) sampled 

from Ngezi forest, Pemba………………………………………………….. 132 

Appendix 9c: Reported use of some animals and birds from Ngezi forest, 

Pemba ………….…………………………………………………………… 133 

vi

Acknowledgements 

We would like to thank CARE Tanzania for funding this biodiversity inventory. We are 

grateful for the time and commitment of CARE Zanzibar and Pemba staff Thabit Masoud 

who worked closely with Mr Amour, the Government CARE coordinator Mr. Mbarouk, and 

members of staff from Department of Commercial Crops, Fruits, and Forestry particularly the 

Ngezi Project manager Mr. Selemani, his assistant Mr Salim Saidand Ms. Fatma, Mr. Mussa 

Bakari, Mr. Salim Khamis and drivers Hamisi, Mohamed and Khalfan who devoted most of 

their time to ensure that this exercise becomes a success. The forest staff at Ngezi participated 

in the field excursions and the local communities around Ngezi forest were friendly and 

cheerfully participated in the fieldwork and during the questionnaire interviews. We sincerely 

thank Prof. Kim M. Howell who volunteered to help in the fieldwork and report writing at his 

own cost. We thank them all. 

vii

Executive Summary 

A biodiversity inventory of Ngezi – Vumawimbi Forest Reserves in Pemba was undertaken in 

January 2005. Ngezi forest together with the Eastern Arc Mountains and coastal forests are 

recognized as one of the global biodiversity hotspots. The inventory was preceded by a 

reconnaissance survey involving three members of the team from 17 th to 19 th December 2004, 

which allowed the team to see the study area and determine sampling plots. This was 

followed by fieldwork by 8 team members from 2 nd to 12 th of January 2005. The main goals 

of the inventory were to produce a vegetation map of the area and provide species lists of 

plants, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and selected invertebrates (Lepidoptera and 

Odonata). The survey was also expected to provide an indication of the conservation status, 

endemism, distribution and relative abundance of the various species. 

Vegetation sampling was conducted at selected sites in different habitat types using the 

Nested Quadrat Method. Opportunistic sampling of plants outside designated transects was 

also done. There was a total of 26 vegetation study plots surveyed on 6 strategically selected 

transects. For medium and large mammals foot counts on line transects and opportunistic 

sampling were employed. Vocalisation was the most useful method for identifying the 

prosimians (bushbabies). Small mammals were sampled along transects using bucket pitfalls, 

snap and Sherman traps at selected sites. Reptiles were also sampled opportunistically. 

Amphibians were sampled using bucket pitfalls and indirect methods such as vocalisation, 

while tree frogs were also collected opportunistically. Fish data was collected from artisanal 

fishermen and from office records. Invertebrates were collected using sweep nets, banana and 

light traps. For all taxonomic groups of flora and fauna additional information was obtained 

from previous surveys and literature. At least 355 vascular plant species belonging to 91 

families were recorded in the survey area. There were a total of 73 new plant species recorded 

for Ngezi of which 60 were vascular and 14 were non vascular plants (mushrooms). Of the 73 

new records 8 are new species to science and includes 1 vascular and 7 non-vascular species. 

A new vascular plant to science is Uvaria sp. nov. a liana observed at Chokaani coral rag and 

Mkia wa Ng’ombe areas. Flowers and fruits of the new plant species are needed for further 

identification and classification. Three plant species are new Flora of Tropical East Africa 

(FTEA) records for Pemba. These include Uvaria lucida (liana), which is seen in coastal 

forests on the mainland e.g. thickets near Ruvu area. Others are Oncinotis tenuiloba (climber), 

and Cissus oliveri (climber). The non vascular (mushrooms) new species to science are 

Phellinus sp., Ganoderma sp.1, Ganoderma sp.2, Trametes cf. gibbosa, Microporus sp.1, 

Microporus sp.2, and Xylaria sp. These are found in various places in the forest. The new 

non-vascular species need to be studied during rains by collecting spores from fresh 

mushrooms for microscopic identification. There are at least 8 strict endemic plants to Pemba 

viii

including Connarus sp.nov., Chrysolidicarpus pembanus, Ensette proboscidium, Ananas 

comosus var. (wild variety of Ananas), Erica mafiensis (found also in Mafia Island), 

Vangueria sp. nov.vel.gem.aff, and Uvaria sp.nov. The other 14 species are broad endemics 

found also in Zanzibar and some coastal forests on the mainland. At least 5 plant species are 

reported to be rare including Quassia undulate, Erica mafiensis, Allophylus vestivus, Eugenia 

capensis, ssp. multiflora and Typhonodorum lindleyamum. Within Ngezi and surrounding 

areas at least 22 plants have been introduced and some of which are naturalized. About 17 

plant species are known to be threatened based on either IUCN or CITES red lists or both. 

There are 43 plants reported to have medicinal values some of which have scientifically 

proven potency. On the other hand 19 trees occurring in the forest are reported to be used for 

timber extraction. As observed in Zanzibar the Acacia genus is also missing on Pemba Island. 

About 12 main vegetation types were recognized more than previously reported. These 

includes moist forest on soils with high humidity and organic humus, moist forest mixed with 

exotic species, microsite of pools, coastal evergreen dry forest on coral rags, coastal evergreen 

dry forest on sandy soils and coastal evergreen dry thickets on shallow soils overlying coral 

limestone. Others include fresh water swamp forest restricted to shallow soil valleys with very 

slow drainage, Erica bushland on the water-logged sites of former shallow lagoons, 

fragmented moist forest to the south with remnants of dry patches representing anthropic 

landscape, mangrove formation on saline swamp forest, fresh water swamps and Arable 

landscape. In some areas of the forest, the vegetation structure and composition resembles 

very closely with that of the Eastern Arc ranges on the mainland. Thus justifying the inclusion 

of Pemba as part of the eastern arc ranges as well as part of the biodiversity hotspot. Most of 

the remaining tropical moist forest in Ngezi maintains a thick forest (c.1,000 hectares) with 

large trees up to 30–40m high and some trees had quite large dbh e.g. Bombax 

rhodognaphalon (3m), Adansonia digitata (4-5m) and Antiaris toxicaria (2-3m). Such a 

prisitine forest with large trees is not found in Jozani Zanzibar because the great hurricane of 

1892 seriously devastated Zanzibar Island and its vegetation and missed Pemba, hence left the 

island and its vegetation (trees) intact. Invasive plants, vegetation clearing, and overexploitation 

are the major threats to plant biodiversity in the Ngezi area. 

Mammals occur in most of the twelve vegetation types in the study area with vervet monkeys, 

bats, hyraxes, prosimians and rodents being ubiquitous. Few small mammals appeared to be 

relatively abundant and widely distributed, particularly rodents, hyraxes and bats. A total of 

30 mammal, 131 birds, 25 reptiles 9 amphibians, 87 marine fishes, 5 freshwater fishes, 35 

Lepidoptera and 10 Odonata species were recorded during the survey. In total there were 15 

new records of fauna to Pemba including 1 mammal (Cape Clawless Otter – Aonyx capensis), 

ix

1 bird (Violet backed Starling – Cinnyricinulus leugcogaster) 1 lizard (Panaspis sp.) 2 

amphibians (Schoutedenella xenodactyloides and Hyperolius sp.) and 11 butterflies. One 

amphibian species Phrynobatrachus was collected in Ngezi forest around Kwajoshi and 

Machopeni areas. According to previous reports the only member of this genus found on the 

island is P. pakenhami, which is endemic to Pemba. However, the taxonomic status of the 

collected specimen of Phrynobatrachus parkenhami is very uncertain due to the fact that the 

specimen does not fit well with the description of both P. pakenhami and P. acridoides. The 

snought-vent measurements and body texture of the three specimens collected during the 

survey suggest the specimens represent a new species. In this report the species is 

questionably been regarded as P. pakenhami?. Details of the new species including its 

ecology are being sought to be used in description and classification. There is potential of new 

amphibian discoveries in Ngezi if studies are done when it is raining. The study team in 

January 2005 was not lucky to have rains during the 10 days of sampling. There is high fauna 

endemism with at least 26 endemic or broad endemic species. These include 7 mammals (3 

strict endemics), 8 birds (7 strict endemics), 7 reptiles (all strict endemics), and 4 butterfly 

species (3 strict endemics). At least 35 species are threatened or endangered including 8 

mammals, 3 reptiles and 21 fish. There are 4 animal species all mammals introduced to 

Pemba and some became naturalized. Although their effects have not been determined species 

like House rat (Rattus rattus) are known pests and potential vectors of disease such as plague. 

The fauna is mostly threatened by hunting/exploitation, habitat loss and fragmentation, the 

small and declining populations’ paradigms and pollution. 

It is estimated that 20,138 people surrounding Ngezi and Vumawimbi forests of which 11,950 

people live within the immediate vicinity of the forests. About 80% of these people are 

engaged in agriculture as their main source of income and 10% depended mostly on fishing. 

Almost all people interviewed said they depend on the forests in some way for various 

requirements including land, fuelwood, building materials, timber, medicinal plants, hunting 

and worship sites. 

In summary the main threats to the forest and its biodiversity include habitat loss (small size 

and encroachment), fragmentation, resources overexploitation (of both flora and fauna 

resources), introduced species (both plants and animals) and disturbance. Immediate measures 

need to be taken to conserve the rare, endemic, threatened, endangered and other species 

occurring inside the forest reserves and surrounding areas. Control of biodiversity exploitation 

and habitat protection are immediate measures which are recommended to be taken to reduce, 

halt or reverse some negative trends of the affected populations while long term 

comprehensive management plans for the conservation of the habitats and species are being 

x

prepared. Conservation programmes will need to be supported by monitoring programmes of 

biological and physical resources found inside and outside the forest reserves. In planning for 

future effective forest conservation strategies, community forest management should be taken 

into consideration. 

xi

1.0 INTRODUCTION 

The introduction section has been adopted from Nahonyo et al., (2002). Biodiversity 

includes all organisms, species, and populations; the genetic variation among these; 

and all their complex assemblages of communities and ecosystems. It also refers to 

the interrelatedness of genes, species, and ecosystems and their interactions with the 

environment. 

Maintaining a wide diversity of species in each ecosystem is necessary to preserve the 

web of life that sustains all living things. In his book "The Diversity of Life," Wilson 

(1992) said, "It is reckless to suppose that biodiversity can be diminished indefinitely 

without threatening humanity itself." Human activity has caused an alarming number 

of species to become extinct. When a large number of species perform various 

functions, an ecosystem is more stable. The fewer species there are filling certain 

niches, the more unstable the environment becomes. Humans have always depended 

on the Earth's biodiversity for food, shelter, and health. Biodiversity also supplies 

indirect services to humans, which include drinkable water, clean air, and fertile soils. 

The loss of populations, species, or groups of species from an ecosystem can upset its 

normal function and disrupt these ecological services. 

The Earth's biodiversity contributes to the productivity of natural and agricultural 

systems. Insects, bats, birds, and other animals serve as pollinators. Parasites and 

predators can act as natural pest controls. Various organisms are responsible for 

recycling organic materials and maintaining the productivity of soil. Genetic diversity 

is also important in terms of evolution. The loss of individuals, populations, and 

species decreases the variety of genes (genetic diversity) the material needed for 

species and populations to adapt to changing conditions or for new species to evolve. 

In recent years knowledge of biodiversity has increased, as has the realization that 

something must be done to counteract the loss of species, populations, and 

ecosystems. There is still much to be learned about biodiversity and its relationship to 

the functioning of our world. Ecologists conduct research to better understand 

biodiversity, quantify its loss, and develop strategies for conserving and using it. 

Much is still unknown as to what species exist, where they occur, and the 

relationships between them. By inventorying and monitoring biodiversity, ecologists 

study species abundance, functions, interactions, and importance to maintaining or 

enhancing the quality of human life. 

Biodiversity hotspots are biologically rich areas that are under extreme threat. 

Together, they contain more than 60 percent of terrestrial biodiversity on just 1.4 

percent of Earth's land surface. The hotspots contain concentrations of endemic 

species in areas, which are undergoing exceptional loss of habitat. As many as 44% of 

all species of vascular plants and 35% of all species in four vertebrate groups are 

confined to 25 hotspots already identified all over the world. The conservation effort 

priority in conserving the hotspots is based on their share of the world's species at 

risk. The threat to species diversity is reflected in the mounting loss of forests and 

other plant and animal habitat worldwide. Eighty-eight percent of the original 

hotspots are already destroyed. Some 12 percent of all mammal species and 11 

percent of all bird species are currently threatened with extinction. Humankind is a 

successful breed. 

1

His advance from hominid origins has brought mankind to near-dominance of the 

world as well as trying to understand it. Scientists now say we are in a new stage of 

the Earth's history, the Anthropocene Epoch, when human species has become the 

globe's principal force. In addition several eminent scientists are concerned that we 

have become too successful - that the unprecedented human pressure on the Earth's 

ecosystems threatens our future as a species. We now confront problems more 

intractable than any previous generation, some of them at the moment apparently 

insoluble. 

As part of its strategy to conserve the biological diversity on the islands the 

Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar through the Department of Commercial 

Crops, Fruits, and Forestry in collaboration with CARE Zanzibar intends to enhance 

the protection of Ngezi –Vumawimbi forest reserves in Pemba in order to protect the 

habitat and species contained therein. This initiative is important due to potential 

threats facing the plant and animal species and the forest in general. However, this is 

only possible when species present in the area together with their conservation status 

is known. To provide sound biological data on which to base conservation activities 

the Revolutionary Government of Zanzibar and CARE Zanzibar initiated an inventory 

of the Ngezi - Vumawimbi Forest Reserves. The main areas of interest for the survey 

were on vegetation, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and selected groups of 

invertebrates. 

1.1 Overview of Tanzania biodiversity 

Tanzania has a rich and diverse spectrum of animals and plants including a wide 

variety of endemic species and subspecies. The diversity and degree of endemism in 

Tanzania is fairly high, for example, of the 18 primate species, 5 are endemic, there 

are 30 antelope species and 2 are endemic, and 60 species of reptiles are endemic out 

of the 227 species present in the country. There are also many other species of fish, 

birds, amphibians and plants unique to our country (Wildlife Division 1998). There 

are over 600 endemic plant species in Tanzania most of them in the eastern arc 

forests/coastal forests. There are other species still unknown to science and are 

awaiting discovery particularly in the eastern arc mountains, Zanzibar and Pemba 

islands. 

Within the coastal forests biodiversity hotspots in East Africa, the importance of 

Zanzibar and Pemba islands has long been recognised. Pemba has been separated 

from the mainland Tanzania for about 10 million years. During this time species have 

been evolving separately from their mainland counterparts. This has resulted in the 

presence of a number of new and endemic species and sub species of both flora and 

fauna. This inventory was an attempt to explore areas and taxa which may have been 

missed in previous studies (by various groups and individuals). Apparently very little 

research has been done in Pemba and there is not much documentation involving 

biological diversity aspects. This means little is known on the past status of flora and 

fauna of Pemba. The occurrence and conservation status of a number of already 

known species was assessed during the survey. 

Tanzania has completed a country study on biodiversity as one its obligations under 

the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). On the other hand, a number of 

studies have been undertaken on the flora and fauna of Unguja and Pemba. While 

some studies were general surveys covering broad areas others were focused on Ngezi 

2

forest in Pemba and Jozani Forest in Zanzibar the two main remaining sanctuaries for 

both plant and animal species on the islands. Moreau and Pakenham (1941) conducted 

a zoogeography study of Pemba and Zanzibar and Pakenham (1984) produced a 

checklist of mammals of Zanzibar and Pemba islands. Leskinen et al. (1997) 

conducted a wood biomass inventory of Zanzibar islands while Pikkarainen (1991) 

conducted an inventory of Jozani and Ngezi forests. Ruffo (1992) conducted a 

vegetation inventory of Jozani and Ngezi forests, while an inventory of Unguja and 

Pemba coral rag forests was undertaken by Leskinen and Silima (1993). Studies on 

individual animal species include those on the Zanzibar leopard by Marshall (1994), 

Goldman and Walsh (1997) and by Stuart (1999). Reports on the Zanzibar Red 

Colobus are available from Silkiluwasha (1981), Mturi (1991, 1993), Struhsaker and 

Siex (1998), Siex and Struhsaker (1999), Nowak (2000) and Masoud et al. (2001). 

Duikers have been studied by Swai (1983a, 1983b), Archer and Mwinyi (1995) and 

Williams et al. (1995). 

1.2 Brief history of Ngezi - Vumawimbi study area 

According to Abdullah, et al. (1996) the areas near Ngezi forest have been settled for 

quite a long time. The archeological evidences as supported by the remains of the 

ruins of the mosques with tombs date back the area to between 11 th –14 th centuries. 

This is supported by the archeological researches which included Mkia wa Ng’ombe, 

Tondooni and Msuka Mjini. To the side of the ruin of the Mosque of Mkia wa 

Ngombe is a mound of sand. This is believed to be the remains of one or more 

dwellings of people residing at this site so long ago. This area is believed to have a 

structure that was used as headquarters for either the Arabs or Persians who once 

lived here. 

The present day Makangale village, earlier called Msuka Mjini was a human 

habitation centre as pointed out by ZCCFSP, (1995). Likewise, people from Kipange 

and Limani formally inhabited Tondooni and Mkia wa Ng’ombe, respectively. Apart 

from natives of Pemba, people form south of Mainland Tanzania particularly 

Makonde and Nyamwezi from Tabora migrated to this place and settled near Ngezi at 

around 20 th century. They cleared land for cultivation of agricultural crops and hunted 

for their food. In 1970s, during a period of food shortage, people from other areas of 

Pemba, as well as Mainland started moving to Makangale to cultivate in areas east of 

Ngezi that lead to a noticeable population increase. Abdullah et al. (1996), pointed out 

that this place may have had links to Makonde Cave situated at Shanzu at the 

boundary of the Ngezi Forest, less than a kilometer north of Mkia wa Ng’ombe 

village. The cave is accessible through the Mkia wa Ng’ombe/Tondooni path just in 

the west of the Erica mafiensis stand. 

1.2.1 History of Ngezi forest 

♦ During 1920’s the importance of Ngezi Forest started to be realized by the 

colonial government. It was during this period when the first inventory and 

management plan was prepared. The management plan basically focused on 

commercial utilization of forest products rather than conservation activities. 

♦ In the 1950’s the forest was divided into 84 administrative units called 

compartments. This was done for easy management, extraction of timber and 

other activities deemed important by that time (Beentje 1990). 

3

♦ During 1957, an Indian merchant called V.R.Joshi installed a sawmill in 

compartment 31 in the forest and started sawing timber, which was transported to 

outside Zanzibar, possibly to India and other parts of Asia. 

♦ In 1959 Ngezi forest attained a status of being a forest reserve. 

♦ In 1963 the first batch and planting of Maesopsis eminii was introduced to the 

forest from Usambara. This was aimed at filling gaps within the opened areas 

where timber extraction had been taking place. 

♦ Parallel to planting of Maesopsis eminii, enrichment planting of indigenous tree 

species that were commercially harvested was done. This included such species as 

Milicia excelsa, Antiaris toxicaria and exotic species such as Calophyllum 

innophyllum, Terminalia ivorensis, Cordia alliodora, Khaya nyasica and 

Tabebuia pentaphylla. 

♦ In January 1964 the colonial government was overthrown and so following that 

revolution, the Zanzibar government confiscated the sawmill in the forest. This 

had made the merchant to leave the country and the government started running 

the mill and the logging operations. 

♦ In 1968 Vumawimbi was declared a forest reserve and became part of Ngezi 

management. However people continued to live in Vumawimbi forest as laws 

were not enforced to evacauate people from the reserve. 

♦ During 1974 Kizimbani saw mill in Wete town was built and sawing of logs in the 

forest was stopped following the Chinese sawmill installation. The forest had to 

feed the sawmill in Wete with the raw materials. 

♦ In late 1970s i.e. (1977/79) replanting of Maesopsis eminii in areas in which the 

government cleared for rubber plantation establishment, continued for the second 

time, after failure of the decision of planting of rubber in the forest where it was 

directed outside the forest reserve. 

♦ During 1980’s realization of colonization of invasive Maesopsis eminii to other 

species started to be noticed and different eradication means were launched. These 

included uprooting, use of chemicals, which was later discouraged and hence ring 

debarking along with uprooting had been done since then up to date. Due to its 

fast growth rate and tendency of colonizing the area, this species has become 

noxious species. Nevetheless, the Maeopsis eminii is currently playing a 

significant ecological role in the area as it has established an microenvironment 

which harbours a variaety of fauna species. Its eradication has to be undertaken 

with great care. 

♦ Harvesting had to take place to feed the sawmill until, up to 1980’s when the 

importance of conservation globally started to be known, and by 1988 commercial 

harvesting was officially stopped following FinniDA involvement in conservation 

activities. Enrichment planting continued parallel with other conservation 

activities, which included species such as Afzelia quanzensis, Milicia excelsa, 

Calophyllum innophyllum, terminalia cattapa and Erythrophloeum suaveolens. 

FinniDA continued funding conservation activities in Ngezi forest up to 1997 

when they pulled out. 

♦ During 1996 the first management plan after revolution was prepared to cover the 

five years period; 1996-2001.The preparation of this management plan involved 

the communities and local officers. It divided the forest into natural zone, which 

allowed minimal human interferences including scientific, tourism and recreation. 

The multiple use zones, allowed very low impact use of fuel wood, building poles, 

medicinal plants, collection of basketry materials, ropes, fruits and honey. 

4

However implementation of this management plan was difficult due to lack of 

funds that were expected to come from donors who had pulled out one year of 

plan preparation. 

♦ During 2000, funding of CARE TANZANIA came in as part of JCBW area, 

which included Kiwengwa and Ngezi forest. Different improvements in activities 

left by FinniDA were tackled giving priority in community participation in the 

conservation of the forest. Among the activities done were Tourist facilities 

improvement, Conservation education promotion, Social studies conduction and 

local communities’ participation in forest related issues. Within this information 

center, nature trail and long hiking trails were periodically renovated along with 

well digging near information centre. 

♦ From 2003/2007, CARE is expected to undertake capacity building activities to 

stakeholders around the forest. This will include assisting farmers, fishermen, and 

livestock keepers. Among activities in practice include, seminars, workshop and 

study visits; small scale nursery, woodlots, saving and credits and matching loan. 

Artificial Insemination, cattle deep and cattle spraying. This is expected to 

decrease pressures on the forest. 

♦ Currently Ngezi – Vumawimbi forest reserves have a work force of 14 people 

including forest guards, 4 tour guides, manager and assistant manager. 

The reserve is important for maintenance of water reservoirs feeding many streams, 

which flow throughout, and is part of historical, social and cultural inheritance to the 

people of Pemba Island. The indigenous forests are also important because they are 

sources of genetic diversity for adaptation to new environments for resistance against 

diseases and pests. They are as well reservoirs of other potentially useful species 

(Eldridge et al. 1993). Apart from trees for timber, they are also potential sources of 

food, building material, fuel wood, vegetables and medicines. 

Introduction of alien species, especially the exotic timber trees to replenish over 

harvested species, has in many cases some how increased species diversity with no 

apparent danger to native species. Many native species maintain themselves 

successfully in mixed native/exotic ecosystems (Mueller – Dombois et al. 1986). 

Before the forest was made a reserve, the local community used to enjoy these values 

of forest products including timber, building materials, medicines and food. Currently 

added values are going to include recreation for tourists; research facilities and 

training for schools. The reserve is of particular importance because it contains a 

diversity of vegetation communities having a variety of unique relic stands of plants 

and animals. These have established themselves as endemic to specific habitats over a 

long period of isolation enjoyed by Pemba Island. 

2.0 THE SURVEY AREA 

2.1 Location 

The study area is located on the northern part of Pemba Island (Map 1, Map 2). 

Standing on the beaches of Chokaani peninsula, one would be approximately 50 km 

from the mainland Tanzania. The forest is located some 25 kilometers from Wete, and 

it is 55 km from Chakechake (using new tarmac road) or 38 km (using barabara 

kongwe). Ngezi is approximately 80 km from Mkoani and about 8 km from Konde 

village. The forest is situated between E 39° 34’, S 6° 16’ and 39° 45’, S 6° 28’. 

2.2 Scope 

5

The area of Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserve is 20 sq. km. (1,975 ha.) (see Map 2 

and Map 4). The forest falls within Kaskazini Pemba administrative Region in 

Micheweni District. The study area was within four Shehias of Makangale, Kifundi 

Konde and Msuka and covered ten villages of Kijijini, Jiwe Moja, Makangale 

Tondooni, Mkia wa Ng'ombe, Bandari Kuu, Kiuyu Kipangani, Mji Mpya, Kiuyu kwa 

Manda and Gombani Mtoni. 

2.3 Accessibility 

Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest can be reached by both road and sea. One can drive from 

Wete, Micheweni or Chakechake to Ngezi via tarmac road passing through Konde 

village to Kigomasha in northwest of Pemba. Konde is the main village boardering 

the forest. One can also reach the forest via various small ports and landing stations in 

places like Mkia wa Ng'ombe, Chokaani, Tondooni and Bandari Kuu. 

2.4 Topography 

Unlike Zanzibar Island, Pemba is hilly with undulating landscape occurring with 

valleys some quite steep and dry river beds. The terrain in the forest area is undulating 

with gentle slopes with few hillocks harbouring the moist forest. Altitude in Ngezi 

forest ranges from sea level to around 20 meters a.s.l. on a small hill at Tondooni 

along the way to Mkia wa Ng'ombe village. Most areas however, lie between 5 to 10 

m a.s.l. (see the Digital Elevation Model Map 3). 

2.5 Geology and hydrology 

Zanzibar Island lies in continetal shelf surrounded with 35 - 50 meters deep water 

while Pemba Island is surrounded by comparatively deep water of strong currents as 

within few meters from the coast water depth change rapidly from 100 meters to 700 - 

800 meters deep. This makes Pemba to fall into a class of "ancient continental 

islands" as described by Wallace (1892) quoted in (Moreau and Pakenham 1941). 

Towards the end of Miocene about 10 million years ago rift faulting occurred which 

separated Pemba from the mainland. On the other hand Zanzibar separation from the 

mainland is only recent during the Ice age that is under 500,000 years. This means 

Pemba island animals have been isolated from crossing with their continental 

congeners for at least 20 times as long as on Zanzibar. 

Large part of Ngezi falls in Q2, charactersied by Quaternary coral line and reef 

limestone. The Q2 of Pemba is lithologically similar to the Q2 of Zanzibar, but differs 

in that the Pemba one is raised coral reef and unweathered to the extent of the 

Zanzibar rock. It is an equally hard cherty limestone, buff to grey in colour. The 

hydrogeology of Pemba's Q2 limestone is a coastal deposit occurring entirely within 

the tidal area of the east coast. It has no hydrological significance. The geohydrology 

of Pemba forms discontinuous perched aquifers, which fails seasonally. The water 

quality is characterised by high Ec values and seawater invasion. 

2.6 Soils 

According to Beentje (1990), soils in Ngezi Forest can be grouped into four types: 

• Clay soils: These cover the waterlogged areas near the “ponds” on the northern 

border and along the streams within the sands 

• Sandy loams and sand 

• Red sandy loams found along the eastern perimeter 

• Sand to very sandy loam that covers the greater part of the forest 

6

• Leached sands “Ndaamba”: Underlying by a clay pan on the southern part of the 

forest. 

• Coral rag: Thin sand soil over the coral with many coral outcrops. This develops 

from Azania limestone and covers the western part (Tondooni Peninsula) and 

small area on the north of the forest. 

2.7 Climate 

The climate of Ngezi is typical as that of western Indian Ocean. The northern and 

southern trade winds dominate the area, which have marked effects on sea and air 

temperatures. The climate is hot and humid as in other parts of Pemba. The 

temperature of Ngezi ranges between 21° C at the coolest and 34°C at the warmest 

(Beentje 1990). 

The rainfall in Ngezi is not different from that of the other parts of Pemba. 

Traditionally two rain seasons occur in Pemba. There is a seasonal variation in the 

climate with long rain (Masika) occurring between March and May and short rains 

(Vuli) occurring between November and December. However, rains are common 

throughout the year. The mean annual rainfall is 1,860 mm, the long rains average 363 

mm per month and the short rains average 175 mm per month (Beentje 1990, 

Abdullah et al. 1996). The northwestern part of Pemba receives more rain from July 

to October than other areas of Pemba. This results in a cooler and more suitable 

climate, which maintains a better development of vegetation types and supports a 

health growth of trees, shrubs, lianas and other plant groups. There are few epiphytes 

in the moist forest especially those, which are indicators of moist conditions. 

The relative humidity is high ranging from 87% during the long rains and 60% in the 

dry season (Abdullah et. al. 1996). 

2.8 Vegetation 

Biogeographically the flora of Zanzibar belongs to the Zanzibar-Inhambane regional 

centre of endemism (UNEP 2001), which extends from Somalia to Mozambique 

coast. Ngezi forest reserve in Pemba Islands has so many plant species and mushroom 

including timber trees. It belongs to lowland coastal forests highly disturbed with 

introduction of exotic species to replenish damaged sites in harvested compartments 

of indigenous timber trees. There are six main vegetation types with four subtle 

vegetation types. Ngezi forest is categorized as ‘a high priority’ conservation site 

because of rare or endemic species and a refuge to T. lindleyanum and Quassia 

undulata. Also present are some wild edible mushroom especially saprophytes. 

Ngezi Forest has some characteristics species, which are reminiscent of lowland 

coastal and mountain forests of the mainland. These include Antiaris toxicaria, 

Milicia excelsa, Drypetes spp. Pouteria brevipes, Chrysophyllum lanceolatum, 

Barringtonia racemosa and Cassipourea lucida, Quassia undulata. These species are 

absent in Jozani forest in Zanzibar. 

Islands usually they have depauparate communities having fewer species per hectare 

compared with their counterparts on the mainland of the same area, reflecting a 

reduced range of resources offered by smaller area and a reduced level of saturation. 

This is because not all supportable species may have colonized the island (Begon et 

al. 1996). A species, which may have colonized an island, may respond well to the 

direct impact of external environment. Erica mafiensis, which probably has its 

7

ancestors in the mountain heathland or some relatives on Madagascan coastal heath 

land, has the exclusive power of allowing only a few other individual species or none 

at all. This is known as “Competitive Exclusion Principle” (or Gause’s Principle). 

That is why it is has very low species richness. Ngezi Forest Reserve is also centre of 

the endemic species of Chrysalidocarpus pembanus, which represents a remarkable 

outlier of a typical Madagascar palm genus (Dransfield 1986). Burgess et al. (2000) 

has categorized Ngezi Forest Reserve as a high priority site having over four plants 

and over six animal endemic species as a criterion for its conservation. 

2.9 Fauna 

Few mediums to large animals exist in Ngezi Vumawimbi forest. Among the 

mammals the vervet monkeys, hyraxes, bats, black rats are the most 

abundant/commonly seen animals. Ocassionally the Zanzibar red colobus may be 

sighted in part of the forest. Sightings of the Pemba Blue duiker are rare and the wild 

boar is rarely sighted. Many birds occur in the forest though not as reach as other 

comparable forests in the coastal belt. There are many snakes, lizards, geckos and 

skinks. A number of amphibians occur in the forest, marshes and swamps and 

possibility of discovering more species is high. Fish in the waters of Ngezi are 

common ones reported in other places on the islands. In all cases observations and 

reports suggest a decline in population numbers of animals including endemic or near 

endemic species and sub species of Pemba. 

2.10 Land tenure, landuse, and habitats 

The issue of land tenure on Zanzibar is complex. Though the land was nationalised 

soon after the Zanzibar revolution in 1964, several tenure systems exist within the 

islands. With nationalisation of land people had the right to own and sell only crops 

and structures located on a piece of land but could not sell land because it belongs to 

the State. In villages people may own land under customary law. There is also land; 

"wakf" which is dedicated specifically for religious use and no one including the 

Government could use it for a different purpose. 

According to Abdullah at al. (1996), the whole northwestern tip of the peninsula was 

gazzetted as a reserve in 1968. However local people traditionally consider that the 

villagers own the land. The present situation is obviously due to the fact that local 

people did not accept the gazzetment and in the absence of law enforcement they 

continue living and utilizing the resources in the gazzetted area. 

Most of the northwestern tip of the peninsula has been cleared of forest and turned 

into agricultural land, over the course of time. At present the only forest covered part 

of this large reserve is located immediately north of ngezi. This area called 

Vumawimbi forest is the main source of several forest products for the surrounding 

villages as well as an important grazing area for their cattle. The forest was exploited 

for timber until 1995 as well but commission of natural resources has prohibited that 

practice. 

The other areas surrounding Ngezi are mostly under intensive cultivation. In fact the 

western side of the reserve, the Makangale area, is one of the most important food 

production areas on the whole of Pemba. The main crops are cassava, sweet potatoes 

and coconuts but also several species of fruits are grown. The farmers either own the 

8

land themselves or have been given the right to use the land by the owner who usually 

in such cases lives far from Ngezi. The fact that people are not the owners of the land 

they cultivate seems to be the main reason for the lack of forest plantations in the area. 

Northwest of Ngezi is where there are 39 ha. of rubber plantation, which was 

established in 1977/78. The government of Zanzibar owns the plantation though it is 

under lease to private company. 

2.11 Human demography 

There are ten villages in the immediate vicinity of Ngezi. Some are located further 

from the forest but still depend on it for fuel wood, building poles, medicine and other 

forest products. According to URT (2002), the population size in the surrounding 

villages is about 20,138 peoples having 9,796 males and 10,342 females with 3,750 

households. The annual growth rate is 5.4 % one of the highest in Tanzania and 

Africa. 

The human population in the villages wchich are located in the immediate vicinity/ in 

contact with forest is provided in Table 2.1 and Table 2.2 below. This list excludes 

those village communities that are considered not to benefit directly from the forest 

and which are found further from the forest: 

Table 2.1: Human population distribution by Shehia in the study area, Pemba 

Shehia 

Gender 

Total 

House Hold 

Male Female 

Number Average 

Makangale 2,132 2,063 4,195 799 5.3 

Konde 4,215 4,634 8,849 1,619 5.5 

Msuka 3,449 3,645 7,094 1,332 5.1 

Total 9,796 10,342 20,138 3,750 5.4 

Source: (URT population Census 2002) 

Table 2.2: Human population in villages in the immediate vicinity of Ngezi forest, 

Pemba 

Ward 

(Shehia) 

Makangale 

Kifundi 

Village Name Population H/H estimate 

Kijijini 2,600 100 

Jiwe moja 1,000 200 

Makangale 2,000 136 

Tondooni 1,500 300 

Mkia wa Ngo’mbe 1,000 50 

Bandari Kuu 350 70 

Kiuyu Kipangani 250 115 

Mji Mpya 50 16 

Konde Kiuyu kwa Manda 1,200 100 

Msuka Gombani Mtoni 2,000 100 

Total 11,950 1187 

Source: Shehias' Offices, 2005 

3.0 Methods 

3.1 Vegetation sampling 

Two days were spent during reconnaissance in order to familiarize with the Ngezi 

Forest Reserve and to identify and locate vegetation types in which transect lines were 

9

to be established. Vegetation types were classified according to concepts of Greenway 

(1973) and White (1983), Herlocker (1999) and Beentje (1994). This classification 

combines physiognomic and floristic criterion including the dominant species in the 

community. 

The vegetation communities were sampled from 26 plots each measuring 20x50m 

along six transects, at an interval of 50m apart in the beginning to100m interval later. 

The transects were randomly selected. Nested Quadrant Method (Stohlgren et al. 1995 

and Crawley 1997) was employed to sample trees, shrubs, lianas and herbs as 

indicated below: 

Life form Fixed plot area Length Width Definition 

Herbs 1.0m 2 2.0m 0.5m All herbs, grasses, sedges under 1.5m 

tall 

Shrubs, lianas 10.0m 2 5.0m 2.0m Woody plants >1.5m with dbh 5.0m and dbh >10cm 

The mangrove formations, the fragmented Albizia-Erythrophloeum forest remnants 

and the Erica bushland (heathland) were not quantitatively sampled, but their species 

compositions were identified and recorded wherever they were considered to be new 

to the check-list. The species from fresh water swamps and ponds were also recorded 

but not quantitatively sampled. 

Sampling in the nested subplots from the main plots involved counting and recording 

the herbs and shrubs of all individual species. All trees in the 50mx20m plot were 

recorded and their dbh measured together with their heights. Individual tree numbers 

in study plots provided basic information for calculating species abundance, basal 

area per ha. -1 and ranges for dbh and heights. The distribution of diameters (dbh) and 

heights of tree species using classes of the respective attributes are provided in the 

results. Other attributes include density (stems/ha -1 and basal area (m 2 ha - ). The 

calculations show the demographic status of species over different communities. 

3.2 Vegertation mapping 

3.2.1 Interpretation and field verification 

The main sources of information were aerial photographs at the scale of 1:10,000 and 

in some cases 1:50,000. The first stage was interpretation where major topographic 

features and the preliminary vegetation types were identified. The second stage 

involved final interpretation after field verification. Interpretations were made on 

transparent films. GPS readings were taken in different areas with their corresponding 

vegetation types. All vegetation types previously identified were covered. 

3.2.2 Digitization and rectifications 

The transparent films obtained from the thematic interpretation of different vegetation 

types were digitized using ArcInfo software. Further manipulation of digitally 

captured datasets e.g. area statement computation was done using ArcInfo, ArcView, 

and Microsoft Excel. 

All digitized data sets underwent the following processes: 

♦ Creation of raw digitized coverage 

♦ Cleaning of the coverage (identifying errors) 

10

♦ Editing of the coverage (correcting errors) 

♦ Transformation of the coverage to UTM projection 

♦ Checking for sliver polygons and editing-out 

♦ Coding of polygons 

♦ Clipping of the coverage (to allow edge-matching to adjacent sheets) 

♦ Edge match editing 

♦ Production of color plot and checking 

Since the aerial photos were not rectified, rectification was done using control points 

appearing both on the existing topographic and aerial photographs. Map 5 presents the 

updated vegetation cover of Ngezi – Vumawimbi forests. 

3.3 Fauna inventory 

3.3.1 Recconnaissance survey 

A scoping survey was undertaken from 17 th to 19 th December 2004 as a preliminary 

site visit. Three team members Dr. C. L. Nahonyo, Dr. C. A. Msuya and Mr. L. B. 

Mwasumbi participated in the survey. This visit enabled the team to familiarize with 

the area and identify areas to locate sampling transects. Logistical arrangements for 

the main field survey were also discussed during the visit. 

3.3.2 Fauna sampling 

Different techniques were used to sample different groups of animals in the study 

area. The techniques differed in accordance with the species concerned. The 

techniques enabled researchers to determine presence of species, their distribution and 

index of abundance. The sampling protocol was based on transects (Map 6) decided 

during the reconnaissance survey. Transects were located to cater for both habitat 

representation and spatial distribution. Little research has been done on the fauna of 

Ngezi as such the research effort concentrated on many taxonomic groups and 

species. 

The vervet monkey density was calculated using estimator proposed by Gates (1969): 

n 

∆ ≡ 

⎛ 

⎜ ny 

2L 

⎜ 

⎝ n 

where: 

∆ = density 

n = number of animals seen 

L = total transect length 

y = mean of all values of y 1 , y 2 , ….y i , the perpendicular sighting distances of the 

animals from the transect line. 

Species diversity was calculated using the Shannon Weaver Index H': 

Where k = number of categories, f i = number of observations in category i, n = sample 

size. The maximum diversity, which could be attained in the area, was calculated 

−1 

⎞ 

⎟ 

⎟ 

⎠ 

n log n − fi log fi 

i= 

1 

H' 

= 

n 

k 

∑ 

11

using the expression: 

H' max = logk 

Where H' max is the maximum possible diversity for a set of data consisting of k 

categories. H' tests abundance equality among k categories and is affected by the 

distribution of data and the number of categories. H' max is the highest diversity which 

can be calculated from a set of data consisting of k categories (Zar, 1999). 

Table 3.1: Description of transects used to sample plants, small mammals, reptiles, 

amphibians and invertebrates in Ngezi - Vumawimbi Forest Reserves, Pemba. GPS 

coordinates (using Garmin GPS 12x) for each transect were taken for future reference 

Transect 

Name 

GPS 

Description 

SN 

1 Kwa Josh Trail 

(Evergreen moist 

forest) 

2 Makangare bwawani 

(grassland/forest) 

3 Erica bushland (along 

Mkia wa Ng'ombe 

road) 

4 Chokaani (Coral rag 

forest) 

Transect 

SN 

Name 

5 Maeopsis eminii pure 

stand (near Sharif 

tomb) 

6 Machopeni (moist 

forest) 

S 04° 56.234' 

E 039° 42.549' 

S 04° 54.664' 

E 039° 41.670' 

S 04° 56.726' 

E 039° 41.294' 

S 04° 57.183' 

E 039° 40.587' 

GPS 

S 04° 55.918' 

E 039° 41.723' 

S 04° 55.475' 

E 039° 42.666' 

Natural moist forest close to Ngezi 

gate, tall trees up to 35-40 m high. 

Canopy cover c.60-100% in some areas 

with strata. Dry leaf litter cover 30- 

80%. No signs of harvesting. Soils 

fairly deep, gray sand 

Grasses c.0.5 - 1m high. Grass cover 

70% wood vegetation cover 10-15%. 

Soils sandy to dark clay soils fairly 

deep 

Dry bushland of 1.0 t0 3 m high 

sometimes pure stand. Canopy cover 

50 - 90% and dry leaf litter cover is 

almost zero. Soils sandy and relatively 

deep 

Coral rag forest close to the beach. 

Fairly tall trees up to 30 m high with 

many lianes and climbers. Vegetation 

cover range from 30 - 90%. Rock 

outcrops with shallow sandy soils. 

Description 

Tall trees some up to 40m high, 

dominated by Maeopsis eminii. 

Undergrowth of mixed vegetation 

including Pemba palm and ….Canopy 

cover 20-90% with layers. Leaf litter 

covers 30-100%. Deep sand loam soil. 

Evergreen moist forest with high 

canopy up to 40 m high, fairly thick 

with vegetation cover between 50 - 

100%. Slopy area surrounded by 

marshes dominated by wild banana, 

ferns and Cyperus. Dry leaf litter cover 

c. 30 - 100%. Fairly deep brown loam 

12

soil. Signs of harvesting of building 

poles. 

3.3.2.1 Mammals 

Large mammals were censused using foot count on line transects selected from a 

baseline (Map 7). Animals encountered along the transects during censusing were 

counted and recorded. The perpendicular sighting distance distance from the transect 

line was estimated. Since Ngezi and Vumawimbi are basically forest habitats and 

animals were few or difficult to sight, animal signs e.g. pellet, footprint, vocalisation 

was recorded and used to identify species and for certain species determine their 

relative abundance (Davies, 2002). A variable visibility profile was used during the 

census to determine transect strip width. Opportunistic sampling was also used to 

record any large mammals encountered during the survey. Villagers were interviewed 

on local uses of wild animal species including large mammals and conflicts between 

wildlife and people. 

A total of 6 transects totaling 14.566 km were surveyed as follows: 

Transect GPS start GPS Finish km General description 

No. Name 

1 Vumawimbi → S04°54.412' S04°54.978' 1.732 Coastal thicket, moist 

Machopeni 

E039°42.076' E039°42.043' forest with open wooded 

grassland on coastal 

2 Makangare Kisimani S04°55.212' 

→ Machopeni E039°41.436' 

(Kisiwani) 

3 Tondooni → Ngezi S04°55.778' 

E039°41.340' 

4 Ngezi → Tondooni S04°56.319' 

E039°42.583' 

5 Mkia wa Ng'ombe → S04°57.128' 

Tondooni 

E039°41.310' 

S04°55.812' 

E039°42.721' 

S04°56.278' 

E039°42.610' 

S04°56.030' 

E039°41.325' 

S04°56.159' 

E039°41.078' 

floodplain 

3.307 Moist tropical forest, 

potential area of sighting 

Zanzibar red colobus 

2.695 Moist forest 

2.784 Moist forest 

1.909 Mixed vegetation types 

including moist forest, 

Fillipia bushland, 

mangroves and farmland 

2.139 Coral rag forest 

6 Chokaani → Tondooni 

(Verani) 

S04°57.183' 

E039°40.539' 

S04°56.098' 

E039°40.472' 

from Vumawimbi, Makangare Kisimani, Tondooni. Night drives were also used to 

record presence of nocturnal animals which are difficult to sight during daytime. 

3.3.2.2 Small mammals 

The trapping of small mammals was done in 6 transects (Table 3.1) described above. 

Specimen collection was done using three types of traps: bucket pitfalls, snap traps 

and live traps (Sherman traps, and cage traps). On each transect 11 buckets of 18litres 

capacity were buried in the ground such that the bucket rim was level with the ground 

and the buckets were spaced 5m apart making a total transect length of 55m. A drift 

fence using polythene sheeting of 0.5m high (see plates later) was erected with the 

support of wooden stakes to run above ground across the middle of the buckets. Part 

of the drift fence was buried in the ground to prevent animals going under the fence. 

Beside each bucket trapline 25 snap traps and 5 Sherman traps were laid in order to 

trap other species not easily caught in the bucket pitfalls. Fried coconut mixed with 

peanut butter was used as bait in the snap and Sherman’s traps. Baits were replaced 

13

each day during trap inspection. Traps were inspected every morning during sampling 

time from around 7.00am to around 11.00am since traplines were far spaced; all 

specimens found in the traps were identified and recorded. Specimens not identified 

immediately were collected for later identification. The traps were also used to collect 

certain reptile species (see section 3.3.2.4) and amphibians (see section 3.3.2.5). Bats 

were sampled using mist netting and opportunistically. Mistnetting was done early 

evening and at dawn at three selected sites of Machopeni, Makangare Bwawani and 

Kwa Josh Trail. Collected specimens were preserved in 70% alcohol, 10% formalin. 

Specimens found alive during trap inspection and which could be readily identified 

were released near the place they were captured. 

3.3.2.3 Birds 

Mist netting meter-net-hours (12m x 4m x hours) was conducted in three different 

habitats of Machopeni, Makangare bwawani and Chokaani. The capture success was 

very poor hence most bird records reported here come from direct observation (bird 

watching) of birds in different parts of the forest both in daytime and and night. The 

checklist also includes previously reported species occurring in Ngezi and Pemba 

Island as a whole. 

3.3.2.4 Reptiles 

Opportunistic sampling and pitfalls (see section 3.3.2.2 above) were used to obtain 

information of reptile species available in Ngezi. All sightings of the reptiles were 

recorded to give clues of their occurrence and distribution in the area. 

3.3.2.5 Amphibians 

Most amphibian specimens were collected using bucket pitfall traps (see section 

3.3.2.2 above). However for tree frogs and other amphibian groups, which are not 

easily trapped in buckets opportunistic sampling was used, and those were collected 

whenever they were encountered. Vocalisation especially at night was also used to 

establish presence of some of the species and also detrmine their relative abundance. 

Photographs of some specimens were taken for identification. 

3.3.2.6 Fish 

Fish specimens from artisan fishermen were identified on sight using identification 

keys and knowledge of the local fishermen. Useful information on fish and fisheries 

resources and exploitation were obtained from office records in Wete. Some 

fishermen were interviewed and provided valuable information on fish, fishing gear, 

fish spawning areas and fish marketing. 

3.3.2.7 Invertebrates 

Sampling of invertebrates (Butterflies, Moths, Dragonflies and Damselflies) was 

carried at six transects (hereafter T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 and T6 see table above). 

Collection methods used included the following: 

(i) Sweeping using a sweep-net (for Odonata and Lepidoptera) was carried 

out for one hour during late morning hours 

(ii) A baited Butterfly trap (“banana trap”) was set in the morning and emptied 

in the late afternoon or evening 

(iii) An 11W fluorescent tube light trap was run for one hour during the night 

to catch moths. 

14

Sweeping during daylight and collecting at night were timed (5 minutes per sample 

for general sweeping, and 60 minutes per sample for butterflies and Odonata. 

Collecting at night took 60 minutes per sample). Night collections were done between 

7.00pm and 10.00pm. There was no moonlight during the survey time. Banana traps 

were set in the morning and checked in the evening. 

Six specific sites were selected within the study area to give a representation of the 

various sub-habitats of the area. The sites, with their co-ordinates, were as follows: (1) 

Kwa Josh trail, S 04° 56.234', E 039° 42.549' (2) Makangare Bwawani S 04° 54.664', 

E 039° 41.670' (3) Erica bushland S 04° 56.726', E 039° 41.294' (4) Chokaani coral 

rag S 04° 57.183', E 039° 40.587' (5) Maeopsis pure stand S 04° 55.918', E 039° 

41.723' and (6) Machopeni moist forest S 04° 55.475', E 039° 42.666'. At each site a 

50m x 50m square plot was marked and all the sampling took place inside the plot. 

Most of the specimens were identified using Kieland (1990), Migdoll (1987) Pinhey 

(1961), Pinhey (1965) and Scholtz (1985). 

3.4 Socio economic survey of local communities around Ngezi forest 

A study was undertaken in ten villages around Ngezi Forest Reserve to obtain a social 

feel of the reserve and further to determine how important the forest is to them, their 

suggestions for future management and general look at the threat this forest is facing 

from the surrounding community. Open-ended conversations and interviewadministered 

questionnaires were used to gather information from the locals (Kikula 

and Nelson 1993, Martin 1995, Bernard 1994 & 2002). Two pre-trained personnel 

were used to administer the questionnaires. A random sampling (Nahonyo et al. 

1997), was used in questionnaire administration where the heads of the house holds 

were targeted, but when these were not around, any member aged above 18 years old 

from that household was interviewed. This was due to time limit, since some heads 

went to farm or were attending their everyday prayers. Data were summarised and 

analysed using the SPSS 11.5 and excel programmes, where descriptive statistics 

(frequencies, and cross tabulations) were used (Dytham 2003). Existing land use types 

of areas under crop, forestry, settlements, roads and river systems were updated 

during the survey and are shown on Map 4 and Map 5. 

15

3.5 Legend to threatened and endangered species of flora and fauna 

The IUCN redlist updated in 2002 of endangered species and CITES Appendices were used to 

estalish the conservation status of plants and animals: 

Legend to the IUCN status of Threatened Species of Flora and Fauna (for details see http://www.redlist.org) 

Critically Endangered (CR): A taxon is Critically Endangered when it is facing an extremely high risk of extinction 

in the wild in the immediate future (These are defined under criteria A-E) 

Endangered (EN): A taxon is Endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high risk of 

extinction in the wild in the near future (These are defined under criteria A-E) 

Vulnerable (VU): A taxon is Vulnerable when it is not Critically Endangered or Endangered but is facing a high risk 

of extinction in the wild in the medium-term (These are defined by criteria A-E) 

Lower Risk (LR): A taxon is Lower Risk when it has been evaluated, does not satisfy the criteria for any of the 

categories Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable. Taxa included in the Lower Risk cane be separated into 

three sub-categories: 

1. Conservation Dependent (cd) 

2. Near Threatened (nt) 

3. Least Concern (lc) 

Data Deficient (DD): A taxon is data deficient when there is inadequate information to make a direct or indirect 

assessment of its risk of extinction based on its distribution and/or population status. 

Not Evaluated (NE): A taxon is Not Evaluated when it has not yet been assessed against the criteria. 

Explanation of CITES Appendices 

CITES works by subjecting international trade in specimens of selected species to certain controls. These require that 

all import, export, re-export and introduction from the sea of species covered by the Convention has to be authorized 

through a licensing system. 

The species covered by CITES are listed in three Appendices, according to the degree of protection they need. (for 

additional information see CITES Species or http://www.cites.org) 

• Appendix I includes species threatened with extinction. Trade in specimens of these species is permitted 

only in exceptional circumstances 

• Appendix II includes species not necessarily threatened with extinction, but in which trade must be 

controlled in order to avoid utilization incompatible with their survival 

• Appendix III contains species that are protected in at least one country, which has asked other CITES 

Parties for assistance in controlling the trade 

16

4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 

4.1 Vegetation 

4.1.1 Synopsis of the vegetation types 

Ngezi forest is characteristically part of the lowland coastal forests, which belong to 

the Zanzibar-Inhambane regional mosaic. The islands of Zanzibar and Pemba receive 

an appreciably high rainfall, for example Wete receives 1964-2000mm of rainfall. 

This amount of rainfall is sufficient to support rain forest (White 1983). The forest 

reserve is rich in species, but changes rapidly in floristic composition and 

physiognomy over short distances making it difficult to classify the different 

vegetation types. The main vegetation types are represented in Table 4.1 below: 

Table 4.1: Synopsis of main vegetation types in Ngezi – Vumawimbi game 

reserves, Pemba (Source: This survey, January 2005) 

SN Vegetation types Specifications and Notes 

and their edaphic definitions 

features 

1. Moist forest on soils 

with high humidity 

and high organic 

humus content from 

decaying litter 

Main canopy cover of 

dominant tree species, 

evergreen over 20m tall 

with emergent trees to over 

40m. It accommodates 

many lianas and epiphytes 

There are also several 

micro-habitats of 

pools/ponds in the 

openings which are wet in 

rain season and dry out in 

dry season, usually 

surrounded by 

2. Moist forest mixed 

with exotic species 

Indigenous timber trees 

over-harvested. Exotic 

trees planted to replenish 

timber supplies in damaged 

sites 

3. Microsite of pools Open depressions in moist 

forest, black sandy, silt 

soil, weedy herbs invading 

soil cover 

4. Coastal evergreen 

dry forest on coral 

rags which is an 

equivalent of 

Zanzibar-Inhambane 

undifferentiated 

forest (White 1983). 

Shallow soils on 

coral rocks 


dry forest on sandy 

soils 


dry thickets on 

shallow soils 

Afzelia-Haplocoelum 

stunted trees open canopy 

which is tolerant to stress 

condition including 

succulent herbs and lianas 

and cacti-like plants – 

Sanseviaria calanthe, 

Lissus, Aloe 

Manilkara-Diospyros- 

Afzelia association. Many 

induced exotic trees of 

Casuarina and Terminalia 

cattapa in the seaward 

This forms a narrow zone 

extending above the 

mangrove to the moist 

Barringtonia racemosa 

Some of the exotic trees 

are aggressive invaders and 

suppress regeneration of 

indigenous species 

Several scattered pools, 

edges with Anthostata, 

Barringtonia 

Low species density 

Disturbed areas bushland 

Contains some patches of 

Erica bush land and 

scattered Dodonaea 

viscose 

The boundary of this zone 

and the moist forest is 

rather indistinct 

17

overlying coral 

limestone 

7. Fresh water swamp 

forest restricted to 

shallow soil valleys 

with very slow 

drainage. These are 

located in moist 

forest with 

exception for a 

small one in open 

land 

8. Erica bush-land on 

the water-logged 

sites of former 

shallow lagoons 

(Greenway 1973). 

There are a few 

micro-sites of pools 

in bush-land 

openings 

9. Fragmented moist 

forest to the south 

with remnants of dry 

patches representing 

anthropic landscape 

10 Mangrove formation 

on saline swamp 

forest 

11 Two fresh water 

swamps, one 

permanently wet. 

Overflows to the sea 

in rain season. Other 

seasonal wet pools 

in moist forest 

forest boundary. It is 

characterized by bush 

forming shrubs, lianas and 

climbers with few trees 

and associated emergent. 

There are clustered 

populations of Sorindeiamadagascariensis 

Plants which can tolerate 

water soaked muddy soils. 

In Ngezi this is referred to 

as Raphia palm. Other 

swamp populations include 

Typhonodorum 

lindleyanum and Quassia 

indica (all introduced 

species) 

Erica bush-land forms a 

loose canopy 5m high. Few 

associate trees are 

emergent 8m tall. Few 

scattered shrubs and 

generally low species 

diversity 

Forest remnants-moist and 

dry openings. Dominated 

by Albizia-Erythrophloeum 

association 

The mangrove formation 

occurs as open stands, 

rarely close on shore 

between low and high 

water mark. Most have 

pneumatophores or are 

viviparous. Smaller 

patches occur around the 

bay of Tondooni peninsula 

Nymphaea, Sedges and 

Acrostichum. Thickets of 

Harungana, Syzygium and 

Parinari separate the two 

swamps 

12 Arable landscape Rice and cassava 

cultivations 

Raphia palm dies after 

fruition. In the two Raphia 

palm swamps Barringtonia 

racemosa was absent 

contrary to White (1983) 

statement 

Apart from the main bushland 

a narrow strip was 

encountered in the coastal 

evergreen dry forest to the 

north 

Engulfed area between 

conservation and human 

interactions (Grazing, 

cultivation and human 

settlements) 

Mangrove species are 

important source of 

building materials 

especially poles 

Only four species are 

represented 

Fishing activities 

Annexed to Ngezi Forest 

Reserve 

18

There were a total of 26 study plots spread over 6 transects, representing different 

vegetation types selected for sampling. These study plots had a total of 733 tree 

individuals, which were measured. However, transects varied considerably due to 

variation in physical environments determining the extent of each vegetation type. 

These formations are unequal in sizes of the areas, which they occupy, and in the 

degree of physiognomic distinctness including floristic and environmental 

characteristics. Moist forests, including enrichment plantations of exotic trees, 

occupies the largest coverage and is represented by transects one (8 study plots) and 

transect No. 2 (exotic tree plantations). The analyzed data on Table 4.2 show the 

structural differences among the different vegetation types. 

Table 4.2: Summary of tree data for the different vegetation types in Ngezi, 

Pemba 

Transects 1 2 3 4 5 6 Area 

Attributes 

Density (trees.ha -1 ) 40 34 21 21 22 24 

Basal area (m 2 .ha -1 ) 59.5 8.33 17.2 7.3 6.45 2.36 

Height ranges - Distribution of trees according to the height class ranges in each 

transect 

5 – 10m 152 31 51 29 44 32 

11 – 20m 127 46 43 26 35 22 

21 – 30m 41 17 11 7 6 1 

31 – 40m 8 3 2 2 0 0 

DBH Ranges (m) – Distribution of trees according to the dbh class ranges in each 

transect 

0.10 – 0.20 161 62 90 22 43 31 

0.21 – 0.30 67 17 19 23 27 11 

0.31 – 0.40 27 3 8 5 3 2 

Transects 1 2 3 4 5 6 

Area 

0.41 – 0.50 19 3 5 6 2 1 

> 0.51 41 10 7 6 3 1 

Sum of stems. per 315 107 124 65 85 48 

transect 

Sampled area in ha -1 8 3 6 3 4 2 

Total area sampled 26 

ha. 

4.1.2 Description of vegetation types 

Table 4.3: Land cover/Land use of Ngezi – Vumawimbi Forest Reserves and 

surrounding areas, Pemba 

SN Land cover Area (hectares) 

1 Pond 2.7458 

19

2 Coastal evergreen Dry forest on sandy soils 196.3000 

3 Mangroves 303.9660 

4 Moist forest 906.7000 

5 Erica bushland 207.7000 

6 Coastal Dry evergreen forest on coral rag 59.3000 

7 Coastal evergreen thicket 113.3000 

8 Raphia stand 41.0070 

9 Rice field landscape 59.4500 

10 Rubber plantation 47.8300 

11 Cultivated area 73.1400 

12 Swamp forest 109.3000 

13 Quassia indica stand 1.0770 

14 Typhonodorum 14.7300 

15 Maeopsis mixed moist forest 92.1800 

16 Terminalia ivorensis 10.5360 

Total cover 2,239.2618 

Source: This survey, January 2005 

4.1.2.1 Natural Moist forest 

This includes both natural undisturbed and disturbed forests. Appreciably high 

amount of precipitation is experienced on the Pemba Island (Wete - 1964mm). Thus 

this amount is sufficient to drain the soils adequate moisture for supporting a rain 

forest. The forest is rich in species composition of up to 40 trees per ha. (Table 4.2). 

The moist forest compares to the Zanzibar – Inhambane undifferentiated forest (White 

1983) that occurs in the lowland coastal forests. They form main canopy at 15-20m, 

and from its emergent rise to heights of 30-40m (Table 4.2). Very few trees are taller 

than 40-50m. Lianas and climbers are plentiful, but vascular epiphytes (6 orchid 

species mainly on Baringtonia on river and swamp banks and fens, Vittaria and 

Asplenium ridus are most widespread. 

The larger trees include Albizia adianthifolia (20-30m), Antiaris toxicaria (30m high, 

dbh 0.5 – 1.50m), Quassia (30-40m high, dbh 0.5 – 1.45m), Bombax (40m high, dbh 

2.74m), Milicia excelsa (30-35m but all timber trees have been exhausted), 

Erythrophloeum suaveolens (25-49m tall, dbh 0.35 – 45m), Inhambanella henriquesii 

(25m), Manilkara sansibarensis (25m), Macaranga capensis (25m), Pouteria 

brevipes (25m), Bombax rhodognaphalon (35m, Uapaca guineensis (25m high, 

0.73m dbh). 

In the lower tree canopy class group 5-10m tree density is highest containing 162 

trees. The middle class layers include few trees 11-20m high (about 127 trees from 8 

plot samples). They include Chrysalidocarpus (15-18m high, dbh 0.20-0.35m), 

Alangium salicifolia (15 high, 0.7 dbh), Elaeis guineensis (10-15m), and Pouteria 

brevipes (10-20m high). There are more trees in the 5-10m class (162) distribution 

compared to other vegetation types in the same class distribution group. 

The Barringtonia racemosa areas were encountered in transect 1 between plots 3 and 

4. Barringtonia racemosa has very dominant tree stands representing 90% of all trees 

in the plot. Other species are Lannea schweinfurthii (2%), Elaeis guineensis (3%), and 

Garcinia livingstonei (5%). The trees are 5-10m tall, with plenty of epiphytic orchids 

on Barringtonia. There are no lianas and canopy cover is over 90%. Two seasonal 

20

flooded ponds or pools around Barringtonia racemosa occupy open locations 

containing aquatic herbs and other annual weeds. 

4.1.2.2 Moist forest mixed with exotic species 

This sample study is represented in Transect 2. It was the area where harvesting of 

indigenous timber supplies was concentrated. Timber tree species included Milicia 

excelsa (25m, few 20m) and Bombax rhodognaphalon, while less important timber 

trees include Quassia undulata (25-35m high, dbh >0.5m). Exotic species include 

Cordia alliodora, Mangifera indica, Tabebuia pentaphylla (20m), Tectona grandis 

(10-20 high, 027-0.47m dbh), Terminalia catappa, Cedrella mexicana, Terminalia 

ivorensis and Maesopsis eminii. Trees >5m high were not encountered. There were 

many dead logs of Maesopsis eminii that were cut down to eliminate it. The dead logs 

support populations of saprophytic mushrooms. Other indigenous species in the 

middle layer include Chrysalidocarpus (10m high), Pouteria brevipes (10m high), 

Alangium salvicifolia (10m high), Croton sylvaticus, and Polyscias fulva (20m high). 

4.1.2.3 Microsites of open pools/ponds in moist forests 

These are depressions, which are seasonally wet in rain season, dry out in summer. 

The edges are surrounded by Anthoclesta and Barringtonia tees. They contain silty 

mud dry dry black sandy soils that crack as the habitat dries out. Invasive aliens cover 

the microsites. These include Ludwigia abyssinica, L.jussioaeoides, L.stolonifer, 

Melastomastrum segregatum, Tristemma mauriatum, Khautia sp., Pentodon 

pentandrous, Cyperus erectus, C. polystachyus, Fimbristylis longiculmis, 

Stachytaphytta urticifolia, Vitex doniana, Agathisanthemum bojeri, Scoparia dulcis, 

Mimosa pudica, Triumfetta rhomboide, Desmodium adscendens, Borreria scabra, 

Achyranthes aspera. 

4.1.2.4 Coastal dry evergreen forest on coral rag 

This is an equivalent to what Birch (1963) calls an evergreen thicket representing the 

climax on shallow soils overlying coral limestones (rags). Characteristic species 

includes Afzelia quanzensis (20-25) which forms clustered patterns on coral rag 

pavements, Haplocoelum inoploeum which has stunted growth form (5-8m) in coral 

rag pavements. Others include Pandanus kirkii, Bridelia micrantha (8m) and 

Calophyllum inophyllum (12m, high, 0.4 dbh). Where coastal coral rag forest is 

disturbed it forms impenetratable dense bushland with many lianas and climbers 

including Saba comorensis, Ancylobotrys petesiana, Uvaria ssp.nov. Voacanga 

africana found on raised beach is not in FTEA for Pemba. Species tolerant of coral 

rag stress conditions include Sansevieria, Calanthe and Cissus which are 

characteristically succulent. 

4.1.2.5 Coastal evergreen dry forest on sandy soils 

This is found on the north of the reserve. A peculiar Erica zone 10-20 wide and 50 – 

100m from the sea runs parallel to the seacoast. Dodonaea viscosa is also scattered in 

a narrow band 10-20m deep into the forest from the sand beach. The vegetation 

community contains many characteristic species of an evergreen dry forest. They 

include Manilkara sansibarensis (10-25m), Haplocoelum inophylum (7m), Brexia 

madagascariensis (5m), Terminalia boivinii (20m), Afzelia quanzensis (5-25m), 

Diospyros consolatae (12m), Lannea schweinfurthii (7-15m), Olea woodiana (15m), 

21

Drypetes natalensis (5m), Rauvolfia mombasiana (5m, usually on forest margins), 

Chrysophyllum lanceolatum (10m), Syzygium cardatum (10-30m, but usually a 

riverine forest species), Sorindeia madagascariensis (7m, rare), Casaeria gladiiformis 

(15m), Pandanus kirkii (15m), Vitex ferruginea (12m), Vitex domiana (10m on forest 

edge) and scattered Chrysalidocarpus, Salacia senegalensis (5m). 

4.1.2.6 Coastal evergreen thicket 

This community occupies a narrow zone on the southwest and gradually fades into 

moist forest. Its transition to moist forest is indistinct, however the damaged or 

undisturbed stands of bushes composed of lianas, climbers, branched shrubs and 

scandent shrubs create thick envelope, which is normally impenetrable. Tree species 

are small in stature ranging from 3-6m tall, with a discontinuous stratum of emergent 

trees e.g. Adansonia digitata, Boureria petiolaris (10m), Voacanga Africana (12m), 

Manilkara sansibarensis (15-20m), Diospyros consolatae (12m) and rare species of 

Manilkara sulcata. This is a very useful species for building poles, charcoal and fuel 

wood. Haplocoelum inoploeum is an important plant for its wide clustered distribution 

usually 7-10m tall. Terminalia boivinii, Pandanus kirkii and Psychotria sp. are rare 

species. 

. 

In some areas Sorindeia madagascariensis forms distributions of isolated population 

clusters with height range of 10-15m. Distribution of dbh ranges of many species in 

this community is mostly10-20m (28), 21-30 (12 trees), 31- 40m (3trees). Only 2 

species Adansonia digitata and rarely Sorindeia madagascariensis measure above 

0.41m dbh. Such vegetation type may be too localized. Birch (1963) says it may be a 

climax of local significance. Common shrubs and lianas forming impenetrable bushes 

include Rhoicissus tridentata (liana), Rhoicissus revoilii (liana), Acridocarpus 

zanzibaricus (shrub/climber), Mystroxylon aethiopicum (liana/shrub), Uvaria sp. 

(undecided species), Cissus quadrangularis (climber), Cissus rotundifolia, Suregada 

zanzibarensis and Allophylus pervillea (all lianas/scandent shrubs). 

Shrubs include Cassipourea gummiflua (usually a mountain tree species 5-20m in 

moist forest), Vernonia sansibarensis (associated with Erica bushland) Synaptolepis 

kirkii (drier forest indicator), Pyrostria bibracteata, Antidesma venosum (generalist). 

Lianas and woody climbers are Salacia madagascariensis, Rhoicissus revoilii, 

Flagellaria guineensis, Mystroxylum aethiopicum, Ochna sp., Chrysophyllum 

lanceolatum, Rawsonia Lucida. Lianas and woody climbers are Salacia 

madagascariensis, Rhoicissus revoilii, flagellaria quineensis, and Mystroxylum 

aethiopicum. 

4.1.2.7 Fresh water swamp forest 

Fresh water swamp forests are all similar in the coastal of East Africa with the Ngezi 

forest swamps except for the exotic Quassia indica and Tynophodorum). They about 

22 true species in all Burgess et al. (2000). In Ngezi Raphia swamps 7 tree species 

were recorded. 

The vegetation type is a variant of moist forest occurring in isolated locations. This 

made planning of quantitative sampling difficult, because they are small in extents. 

Beentje (1990), mentions that they follow a narrow belt up to 30m wide. We did not 

22

make a follow up to support this statement. The following forest swamp areas were 

visited: 

a) Raphia swamp forest 

In Ngezi Forest Reserve Raphia swamp occurs in shallow valleys with very slow 

drainage. One small patch was encountered along transect one Plot 8 across a small 

stream. The key species include Raphia farinifera (6-7m), Syzygium cordatum (10- 

25m high, dbh 0.14-055m), Vitex domiana (12-18m, dbh 0.14-0.45m), 

Erythrophloeum suaveolens (15-40m, dbh 0.20-0.45m), Uapaca guineensis (18-20m, 

dbh 0.20-0.35m), Pouteria brevipes (12m, dbh 0.12), Parinari curattelifolia (20m, 

dbh 0.50). In a big Raphia palm forest on the stream to the north was qualitatively 

sampled. The common tree species were counted in two plot sites of 20 x 50m as 

follows: 

Elaeis guineensis 24 trees (8m high), it dies after fruiting. Anthocleista grandiflora 10 

trees (25m dbh 0.18m), on the margin of the swamp Syzygium cardatum 10 trees (15- 

25m, dbh. 17-0.50), this species is not known in FTEA for Pemba Island although ssp. 

cordatum is well known as a swamp forest indicator from 0-24.00m elsewhere, 

Tabernaemontana ventricosa (10m). There were no lianas or shrubs. Barringtonia 

racemosa was missing altogether. The monocotyledons species of Raphia, Elais 

species are usually the most dominants of these microsites and Ngezi forest is an 

important isolated site for establishing rare species facing extinction in their sites of 

origin. 

b) Swamp forest 

Swamp forest includes also small open depressions or pools with herbs and aquatic 

species. These usually contain grasses, sedges, and herbs. Permanent swamps contain 

Nymphaea nouchali and Nymphoides. Utricularia sp. may be present and the big 

swamp in the open land is important for fishing. 

c) Quassia indica stand 

This occupies an enclave and restricted area along the river stream. The river course 

running through this population to the mangrove was dry during the survey, but the 

Quassia indica habitat was wet with black muddy soils. There are few lianas 

including Combretum, Entada, Mucuna, Uncaria, Scutia and Adenia species. Quassia 

indica is exclusively dominant. 

d) Typhonodorum lindleyanum swamps 

Open pools/swamps 

There are also unique micro-sites of open swamps occupied by Typhonodorum 

lindleyanum (Plate 3a and 3b). This was not surveyed, though it is expected to host 

some weedy herb species. T. lindleyanum is the only known species in the genus 

(monotypic) observed in the NE side of Ngezi Forest Reserve as pure stands. There 

are also many open swamps of Typhonodorum lindleyanum in moist forest. 

4.1.2.8 Fragmented Remnants 

Landscape which has been altered through settlements and other human activities 

a) Albizia-Erythrophloeum mosaic 

This one is a relict or remnant of a moist forest variant. It contains the following: 

23

Albizia adiantifolia (25m), Erythrophloeum suaveolens (20-25m), Vitex doniana 

(20m), Lannea schweinfurthii (15m), Phoenix reclinata (5m), Syzygium cordatum, 

Apodytes dimidiata and Garcinia livingstonei.A bushland has developed at the forest 

margins. The bushland cover is impenetrable. The main lianas forming the dense 

cover include Salacia madagascariencis, Landolfia kirkii, and Uvaria sp. Herbs 

includes Phyllanthus, Hibiscus and Zammioculcas species. 

b) Evergreen dry forest remnants in forest gaps 

These dry forest remnants are of limited extent. The patches are poor in plant species 

because grazing and other human interactions retard their vegetation development. 

Main trees are Parinari curattelifolia, Vitex domiana, Adansonia digitata, Phoenix, 

Haplocoelum, Terminalia boivinii, Pouteria. Shrubs include Antidesma, Pyrostria, 

Chassalia, Xylotheca and Deinbollia species. 

4.1.2.9 Erica Vegetation 

a) Erica Bushland 

The ericaceous bushland occurs on the waterlogged habitat of former shallow lagoons 

(Greenway 1973). On Ngezi Forest Reserve, the ericaceous bush-land forms a unique 

habitat with a loose open canopy at a height of 5-8m (White 1983). Associated 

species include Syzygium cardatum and Phoenix reclinata at the margins of shallow 

pools and scattered in the bushland. 

b) Seasonal waterlogged pools 

There are several shallow ponds or pools in Erica bushland, which are waterlogged in 

the rainy season and become dry when the season ends. They are surrounded by 

scattered trees of Syzygium cordatum, Harungana madagascariensis, stunted Lannea 

schweinfurthii, Phoenix guineensis and Erica bushland. They are herbaceous habitats 

dominated by Xyris sp. and sedges at Locations 576277, 9453295 and 576371, 

9453271. 

Table 4.4: Common herbaceous species occurring in seasonally water logged pools in 

Ericaceous bushland in Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Species name 

Xyris anceps 

Xyris sp. 

Cyperus tenax 

Cyperus erectus 

Cyperus laceoulatus 

Dissotis rotundifolia 

Tristemma mauritianum 

Fimbristylis dichotoma 

Fimbristylis longiculmis 

Panicum brevifolium 

Phymatodes scolopendria 

Notes 

Very common, 30-40cm tall 

Small herb restricted distribution 

Densely tufted perennial 

Tufted perennial 


Prostrate herb 

Shrub forming bush at the marshy edges 



In pools with permanent standing water, floating aquatic plants include Nymphaea 

nouchali, Nymphoides sp. Ultricularia gibba and Cyperus prolifer (rooted in muddy 

soil). Xyria anceps is prevalent in slow moving streams in the heathland. 

24

4.1.2.10 Mangrove Thickets 

The mangrove formations are constituted by trees and shrubs or bushes which tolerate 

stress conditions on shores periodically flooded by sea water. The mangrove flora is 

the same for the rest of East African coasts. Any community in these habitats 

contains species including Avicennia marina, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Ceriops tagal, 

Lumnitzera racemosa, Sonneratia alba, Heritiera littoralis, Xylocarpus granatum and 

Xylocarpus mollucensis. Mangrove communities were not sampled, but two sites were 

observed. A large mangrove area lies to the north of the reserve (Plate 7). Smaller 

populations were seen to the west of the reserve in Tondooni peninsular. The 

occurrence of 5 species including Bruguiera, Ceriops, Heritiera, Rhizophora and 

Xylocarpus granatum was confirmed during the study. Mangrove ecosystem is very 

important as a sanctuary for marine life and biodiversity, source of building materials, 

they protect coastal areas from soil erosion and they support salt production (the latter 

is however, a destructive practice because it involves clearance of salt production 

sites). 

4.1.2.11 Fresh water swamp in open land 

These are two small swamps at Makangare bwawani. These swamps are surrounded 

by abandoned cultivation and forest remnants dominated by Harungana 

madagascariensis, Syzgygium cordatum, Vitex doniana and Bridelia micrantha: 

Location: 0577345, 9456953 

Site No. 1, dry 

Permanent swamp by abandoned cultivation 

Site No. 2 

Pools inside moist forest were surrounded by Barringtonia racemosa scattered 

Anthocleista grandiflora. There is also the semi-aquatic swamp that dries out in dry 

season, while its muddy soils form cracks when drying 

Table 4.5: Woody herbs and other herbaceous vegetation occurring in fresh water 

swamps in open land surrounding Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Species name 

Cyperus erectus 

Cyperus prolifer 

Desmodium adscendens 

Fuirena ochreata 

Ludwigia abyssinica 

Ludwigia jussiaeoidess 

Ludwigia stolonifera 

Melastomastrum segregatum 

Melochia corcholifolia 

Mimosa pudica 

Pentodon pentandrus 

Scoparia dulcis 

Stachytaphytta urticifolia 

Triestemma mauritianum 

Notes 

Perennial with densely set culms 

Robust perennial in swamp edges 

Spreading herb 

Perennial, woody rhizome 

Perennial herb edge of swamp, scattered 

Woody herb scattered 

Herb with prostrate stems, plenty 

Shrub forming dense bush at edges of 

swamps/ pools 

A weed, edge of swamp 

Straggling herb 

Succulent branched herb, spreading 

Woody herb, weed 

A weed edge of swamp 

Shrubby herb forming bush 

4.1.2.12 Rice field landscape and other crops fields 

25

This vegetation type represents public land, which has been annexed to the Ngezi 

Forest Reserve. This area was not botanically assessed, but it is likely to contain a rich 

diversity of annual and perennial weeds. 

4.1.3 Indicator species and criteria to diagnose ecological condition/integrity 

Biological indicator species predict the environmental quality of the community 

ecosystem. A forest is sound if it is able to sustain its structure when faced with 

regular and incidental natural perturbations. The main criterion for forest integrity is 

the occurrence of all species and age classes in a particular proportion of social 

organization (Herlocker 1999). The loss of any one species is an indication of poor 

forest condition. The change in the relative abundance of various species forms the 

basis of community indicators, which can be detected by establishment of long term 

monitoring programmes (Spellerberg 1991). 

Plants and animal populations exist in community ecosystems under different regimes 

of environmental conditions including climate, soil and moisture content. Not only 

loss of a particular species that counts for community (forest) integrity, but fluctuating 

climatic conditions also affect the ecological conditions which inflict vegetation 

change. Indicator species have been used in mineral prospecting or as soil pH 

indicators. Heathland community is found on oligotrophic acid soils and the 

indicators are low growing, dwarf ericoid shrubs e.g. Erica mafiensis whose 

population forms over 90%. It has very low species diversity. This is a unique 

habitat, which is very fragile. 

Some tree species are declining or disappearing through over-harvesting for timber 

and other forest products (medicines, building material, edible fruits). Croton 

sylvaticus is over used as medicinal plant. Indigenous timber trees include Milicia 

excelsa, Bombax rhodognaphalon, and Afzelia quanzensis. Abandoned logs, cut 

stumps and planks on the market, foot-trails to harvested sites are good indicators of 

the decline of timber trees. There are also reports that big companies carried tree 

harvesting of these species. Between 1957 and 1964 an Indian, V.R. Joshi used Ngezi 

Forest to harvest timber; the Zanzibar Government was also involved in timber 

harvesting from 1964 to 1966, while the Chinese did the same from 1975-1979. 

Although timber harvesting has been suspended there were many indications of illegal 

harvesting, these included fresh cut logs and trails to harvesting sites. 

The Government replenished the forest by introducing exotic timber trees of 

Calophyllum inophyllum, Cordia alliodora, Grevillea robusta, Khaya anthotheca, 

Terminalia ivorensis, Maesopsis eminii, Tabebuia triphylla, Tectona grandis and 

Cedrella mexicana. Some of these are aggressive invaders on the regeneration of the 

indigenous species. The main aggressors are Cedrella mexicana, Maesopsis eminii, 

Cordia alliodora and Terminalia ivorensis (H. Selemani pers.comm. 2005). 

I. Structural indicators 

Natural vegetation is considered stable when it is undisturbed. Where a forest is 

disturbed through man-made interactions the likes of fire, land clearance, collection of 

fuel wood and medicines, building materials and timber harvesting, the ecological 

ecosystem (forest integrity) is also affected (Budowski 1965). Forest structural 

indicators, therefore, can define the ecological integrity of the habitat. 

26

a) Basal area 

The number of counted trees and their basal areas are presented in Table 4.2 It is 

demonstrated that the moist forest has the highest number of 59.5m 2 .ha -1 coming from 

the larger dbh size class trees. This is followed by17.2m 2 .ha -1 from coastal forest on 

coral rag. See Figure 4.1 below in which there is a characteristic inverted J shape in 

the resulting graph. 

70.00 

Tree density/DBH 

60.00 

50.00 

40.00 

30.00 

20.00 

10.00 

0.00 

T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 

Transect 

Density 

DBH 

Figure 4.1: Tree density (trees ha -1 ) shown against basal area (m 2 ha -1 ) for the six 

sampled vegetation transects in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba 

b) Tree diameter 

The presence of large trees is an indication of mature forest. In Ngezi Forest Reserve 

measured trees with a diameter >0.4m were considered as relatively large. For 

instance there were 41 trees with dbh over 0.50m in the moist forest, while in the 

0.41- 0.50 dbh class ranges there were less trees than in the preceding dbh class range. 

Similar results indicate that dbh class range over 0.50 has more trees than dbh class 

range 40-50 in the rest of the transects representing different vegetation types. Most 

trees in almost all vegetation types were recorded in dbh class range 0.10-020m. The 

moist forest contains more trees than other types. For instance, there are 161 trees 

compared with 90 trees in the next vegetation types in the order of importance. Smiet 

(1989) categorized as big trees if their dbh exceed 5m. This is relevant for the moist 

forest, which also contains some timber trees, which need to be, protected e.g. Milicia, 

Bombax, Afzelia and the exotic tree species. Figure 4.2 shows the dbh range 

distribution in sampled transects which exhibit a more or less inverted J characteristic 

shape. 

27

Number of stems 

180 

160 

140 

120 

100 

80 

60 

40 

20 

0 

T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 

Transect 

0.10 - 0.20 

0.21 - 0.30 

0.31 - 0.40 

0.41 - 0.50 

> 0.51 

Figure 4.2: dbh versus number of trees (stems) in each of the six sampled 

transects in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba. 

Number of tree 

spp. 

160 

140 

120 

100 

80 

60 

40 

20 

0 

Transect number 

5 – 10m 

11 – 20m 

21 – 30m 

31 – 40m 

Figure 4.3: Height range (in metres) versus number of trees in six sampled transects in 

Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba 

c) Tree height 

Tree heights were estimated 5-10m class, the rest in 10m classes. The maximum 

height in 5-10m class contained the largest number of trees followed by coastal forest 

on coral rag. There were no trees in the 31-40 class tree heights. Figure 4.3 above 

supports the observation made with a characteristic inverted J shape of the graph. 

d) Forest Layers 

Young and old secondary forests have a single or double layer, while late successional 

stages have a more multi-layered structure (Budowski 1965, Jacobs 1988). In Ngezi 

Forest Reserve Quassia indica, Barringtonia racemosa and the Raphia swamp forests 

have single layers. Exotic tree forest plantations are successional stages with amore 

multi-layered structure. 

28

e) Characteristic diameter distributions 

The diameter distribution patterns tend to display a reverse J-shaped curve shown by 

the undisturbed forest. In Ngezi Forest Reserve the relationship of overall density of 

dbh follows the L-shaped curve whereby the lowest dbh class has the highest number 

of species. 

II. Light indicator species 

Light indicator species show reduced ecological integrity. The occurrence of such 

indicators is a sign of secondary forest or disturbed habitat (Budowski 1965). 

a) Indicator Groups of Pioneer species in the gap formation 

These include Trema guineensis, Macaranga capensis, Ageratum conyzyides and 

many weedy annuals in seasonally inundated ponds/pools (Table 4.1) 

b) Light demanding indicators 

These include Olyra latifolia, Aframomum angustifoliam (Ginger group), Costus 

tomentosus, the ferns of Stenochlaena tenuifolia, Nephrolepis, biserrata, Phymatodes 

scolopendria. 

III. Atmospheric moisture indicators 

This indicator group refers to families of species indicating high atmosphere 

humidity. These indicators in Ngezi Reserve Forest include epiphytic ferns and 

orchid family. The orchids include Aerangis hologlotis, A. kirkii, Bulbophyllum sp.; 

the fern epiphytes include Asplenium nidus, Vittaria elongata and Microsorium 

punctatum. Other direct ecological indicators include associated perturbations. 

These are cut stumps of timber trees and building poles, presence of footpaths leading 

to areas of destruction (fresh stumps of Milicia and fallen logs of Bombax). Some 

species serve as ecological indicators for certain habitat conditions such as Erica 

mafiensis, for heathland ecosystem. Acrosticm aureum population is an indicator of 

saline condition associated with salt-marsh. Nymphaea nouchali and Nymphoides 

kirkii are floating aquatic herbs. 

IV. Indicator species 

This refers to species which by their presence or absence shows the type of 

environmental conditions that prevail. They have been used for instance in mineral 

prospecting and soil acidity studies. Biological indicator predicts the environmental 

quality of community ecosystems. They have been used for detection of pollution and 

specific pollutants. 

The presence of every plant and animal (and its condition) is a measure of the 

conditions under which it exists. Animal and plant populations occur in communities. 

Heathlands are found on oligotropic acidific soils and the indicator heath-land plants 

are low- growing, dwarf ericoid shrubs e.g. Erica mafiensis. If moist forest trees, 

which abound with epiphytic ferns and orchids are cut down the populations of ferns 

and orchids will decline or disappear altogether. 

Ferns and orchids usually grow on epiphytic cover on trees, where the height of tree at 

1.5m, which is also the standard height for population studies of tree diameter, is used 

as the starting point in studies of tree epiphytes. The change in the relative abundance 

29

of various species forms the basis of community indicator. Such changes can be 

determined by initiating reliable long-term monitoring programs (Spellerberg 1991). 

V. Community indicators 

Populations of animals and plants occur in communities and different soils support 

indicator plant communities. Thus Erica heathland is found on oligotrophic acid soils 

and the indicator heathland species are the low-growing, dwarf ericoid shrubs and for 

other species of Syzygium cardatum, Venonia sansibarensis, Psydrax and Elaeis spp. 

(Spellerberg 1991). 

VI. Plant and animal indictors 

The presence of every plant and animal (and its condition) is a measure of the 

conditions under which it is existing or existed previously. 

4.1.4 Evaluation of plant biological resources 

Ngezi forest is a storehouse of biodiversity with a few endemic or near endemic 

species and other threatened or endangered. Apart from maintaining biological 

diversity plant resources at community level, Ngezi forest has been supporting 

ecosystems, climate control, ecological processes and wildlife habitats. 

Food crop relatives such as rice were not encountered at least from this study. 

However, there are many keystone tree species which did not show much regeneration 

in the ground layer apart from Chrysalidocarpus pembanus which regenerates 

vigorously in the moist forest, coastal dry evergreen forest and coral rag forest. The 

endemic species of Ensette proboscoides on the contrary, is very restricted to a small 

population in the moist forest. These two species are both of local and global 

importance. C. Pembanus is listed in the category of endangered species in the world 

IUCN red data book but not for Ensette spp. Other species of both local and global 

significance include Erica mafiensis which is confined to the heathland only, 

Typhonodorus lindleyanum confined to the swamps (monotypic), and rare species of 

Allophylus vestives (confined to the coral rag and coastal evergreen dry forest), as 

well as Quassia undulata. Other species including Barringtonia racemosa, 

Haplocoelum inophylum, and Sorindeia madagascariensis form clustered population 

where they occur, although Haplocoelum occur as scattered individuals. Timber trees 

are becoming rare due to unsustainable harvesting, which cause loss of species density 

in keystone tree species. Bryce (1965) includes some of these keystone tree species, 

which occur in Ngezi Forest Reserve. 

Table 4.6: Trees used for commercial timber harvesting and other uses in Ngezi forest, 

Pemba (Source: Bryce 1967, Nahonyo et al. 2002, Burgess 2000, Beentje 1994) 

Species name Remarks 

S/N 

1 Antiaris toxicaria For dug-out canoes, weak verniers and plywood 

2 Afzelia quanzensis Rare in moist forest but common in coral rag forest 

and evergreen coastal forest 

3 Bombax 

The weakest among hardwoods 

rhodognaphalon 

4 Ceurella mexicana Exotic species 

5 Milicia excelsa Best timber tree which is rare due to over-harvesting 

6 Dalbergia 

melanoxylon 

Absent in moist forest and rare in other forest 

communities 

30

7 Entandophragma Reported but not encountered in study plots 

sp. 

8 Erythrophloeum same relative density as Bombax rhodognaphalon 

suaveolens 

9 Grevillea robusta Among the exotic species, rare 

10 Khaya anthotheca Reported as introduced but not encountered in the 

study plots 

11 Maesopsis eminii Exotic, vigorous invader and spread fast 

12 Mangroves For building poles mainly but may soon be used for 

charcoal production 

13 Manilkara 

sansibarensis 

Timber tree, resistant to water and tear, thus for 

dhow-building according to Beentje 1994 

14 Quassia undulata Perishable wood 

15 Oxystigma sp. Said to occur in Pemba coast near Ngezi and Rau in 

Moshi for plywood and canoe 

16 Pterocarpus Boundary marker, may be a timber tree 

indicus 

17 Syzygium Not widely used except for shuttering boxes 

guineense 

18 Tamarindus indica Charcoal, boat-building, turnery and furniture 

19 Vitex doniana Low grade timber, locally for boxes, oats and cheap 

furniture 

Mushrooms 

There are no collections of mushrooms from Pemba Island. The only records of 

mushroom collections are from Zanzibar Island (Pergler 1977). The collectors quoted 

by Pergler include Berkeley (1974), Wheeler (1955) and Faulkner (1962). Even these 

collections do not indicate whether or not came from forests. 

Apart from the edible mushrooms like Pleurotus spp. in general they also play an 

important role in forest ecology. Where forest tree would not survive without fungi in 

conjunction with other soil microorganisms fungi decompose forest tree litter, tree 

trunks and fallen logs facilitating the accumulated nutrients to be released and become 

available as plant food. These fungi are saprophytes. Fungi are also important 

mycorrhizal partners with trees where they are useful for water and mineral uptake; an 

association very essential especially in forest areas with poor laterite soils. This is true 

where trees are felled and the fungi stays alive; so helping stump roots to draw 

mineral food and water from the surroundings. Such partinership is called symbiosis. 

The association is quite common in Miombo woodland. Some fungi grow as parasites 

on trees. The fungus Armillaria mellea causes disease to forest trees. There are many 

others, which cause harm to several parts of plants; some however plays part in the 

ripening of fruits. List of mushroom species collected in Ngezi forest is shown in 

Table 4.7b below (Plates 11 – 21). 

4.1.5 Plant species diversity 

Variables used in the ecological evaluation are many. Some of these include the 

number of species, species composition and the proportional abundance of species. In 

Appendix 1b relative densities and relative frequencies are used to predict the 

abundance and rarities of individual species. Many natural exploited species are 

being pushed towards the brink of extinction. Many of the endangered species are rare 

(though not all the rare species are endangered). Abundance refers to the high 

31

intensity within an inhabitated area. In trees in Appendix 1b Chrysalidocarpus 

pendanus is very dominant (intensive) and widespread (frequent) with relative density 

23.03%, and relative frequency 5.26%. This is followed by Quassia undulata, 

Antiaris toxicaria and Pouteria brevipes. Two species Pouteria brevipes and Elaeis 

quineensis are most widespread (RF 7.89% each). The two species Pouteria brevipes 

and Elaeis quineensis are broad riched (generalists) with wide range in moist forests. 

Rare species have a narrow range of relative density and frequency, and also their 

local populations are small (low intensity). Some conservationists support the 

protection of rare species. However, protection of this nature may lead to 

fragmentation of the reserve. 

4.1.6 Medicinal Plants 

Medicinal plants have been used to cure diseases traditionally because medical 

services could not be afforded in rural areas. Collection of medicinal plants is 

destructive because it involves, bark stripping of both stems and roots apart from 

leaves. This results in the deaths of the intended trees thus disturbing the ecosystem. 

Some plant species occurring in Ngezi Forest Reserve have been chemically 

investigated and contain biologically active compounds as it is shown in Table 4.7a 

and 7b below: 

Table 4.7a: Some plant species with medicinal values in Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba 

(Sources: Chhabra et al. 1987; Nkunya et al. 1990a, 1990b) 

Species Active agents/actions Information source 

Annona 

senegalensis 

Antiaris toxicaria 

Dracaena 

deremensis 

Lannea 

schweinfurthii 

Maytenus 

senegalensis 

Rauvolfia 

mombasiana 

Scadoxus 

multiflorus 

Bark and root bark contain 

deterpenes. Extracts show 

antimicrobial and antitumour 

actions in vitro 

Small doses of dried latex may be 

stimulant to heart. Very toxic in 

large quantities 

Chhabra et al. (1987 

Oliver Bever (1986) 

Show antimicrobial activity Chhabra and Uiso 

(1991) 

Antibacterial activity Chhabra et al. (1987 

Extract show antimicrobial activity 

Reserpine and desrpidine root 

extracts produce hypotension and 

counteracts effects of adrenaline 

also remedy for malaria (Beentje 

1994) 

Bulb contains alkaloid lycorine, 

chlidanthine, haemonthidine, 

hyppeastrine and haemultine 

Contain alkaloids. Roots to treat 

skin disease 

Chhabra and Uiso 

(1991) 

Chhabra et al. (1987) 

Chhabra et al. (1987 

Schizozygia 

Beentje (1994) 

coffaeoides 

Species Active agents/actions Information source 

Uvaria acuminata Uvaricin and desacytluvaricin Chhabra et al. (1987) 

shupantitumour and antibacterial 

actions 

32

Uvaria lucida 

Vernonia 

zanzibarensis 

Extracts show in vitro activity Nkunya et al. (1990a) 

against multidrug resistant strains 

of falciparum malaria parastites 

Contains vernonin, a hypotensive Oliver Bever (1986) 

Table 4.7b: Records of medicinal plants also available in Ngezi forest used traditionally 

as primary source of health care [Sources: FTEA, Beentje (1994) and Nahonyo et al. 

(2002)] 

Species 

Albizia adianthifolia 

Anacardium 

occidentale 

Ancylobotrys 

petersiana 

Annona senegalensis 

Antidesma venosum 

Asparagus falcatus 

Blighia unijugata 

Bridelia micrantha 

Caesalpinia volkansii 

Chassalia umbraticola 

Croton sylvaticus 

Dichrostachys cinerea 

Dichrostrachys cinerea 

Dodonaea viscose 

Euclea racemosa ssp. 

Schimperi 

Ficus exasperate 

Flagellaria guineensis 

Funtumia Africana 

Macaranga capensis 

Mangifera indica 

Olyra latifolia 

Pandanus kirkii 

Paullinia pinnata 

Pluchea sordida 

Psiadia punctulata 

Rauvolfia mombasiana 

Disease treatment 

Minor medicine against inflammation and dizziness, roots 

for skin diseases. 

Roots and stem bark to treat scabies, bronchitis, snake 

bites and to keep away evil spirits 

Roots to prevent abortion 

Roots and leaves to treat minor cases 

Roots used to treat head-ache, stomach-ache, kirambi 

(sickle cell) and liver diseases 

Seeds, leaves, twig to treat liver and abdominal pains, 

coughs, chistosomiasis scabies, fits, diarrhea, dysentery 

and constipation 

Roots to treat venereal diseases 

Roots to treat epilepsy and hernia 

Roots to treat liver, bark to treat dysentery in children 

Seeds to treat trachoma 

Leaf infusion used to treat fever 

Aphrodisiac (root and stem bark), hernia 

Leaves and roots to treat snake bites, wounds and boils, 

stomach ache. 


To treat impotence (roots) 

Roots and stem barks to treat swelling, chest pains, 

schistosomiasis, purgative laxative and tamagoa 

Roots used to treat pneumonia 

Fruits used to treat veneral diseases 

Latex for minor medicinal used for burns, constipation, 

incontinence (state of mind being inconvenient) 

Leaves used to treat allergy 

Leaves to treat stomach-ache, diarrhea 

Leaf infusion to treat swollen spleen 

Roots for aphrodisiac 

Root infusion used to treat cough linctus 

Leaves used to treat dementia (insanity) 

Laves used to treat rashes 

Roots used to treat stomach-ache and primary stages of 

33

Sorindeia 

madagascariensis 

Suregada zanzibarensis 

Synaptolepis kirkii 

Tabernaemontana 

ventricosa 

Tamarindus indica 

Terminalia catappa 

Uvaria spp. (several of 

them) 

diabetes (5 pcs of twigs per does) 

Roots used against malaria, hookworms and hemorrhoids. 

Treating breeding of women and women pains while in 

monthly periods. Stem bark to treat syphilis sores 


Roots are used to treat vomiting and impotence. 

Milk sap from fruits and stems to heal wounds 

Seeds laxative 

Bark and roots to treat catarrh (inflammation of the 

mucous membrane), diarrhea, dysentery, skin diseases and 

asthma 

Leaves and roots used to epilepsy, malaria treatments and 

lunacy (insanity, madness) 

4.1.7 Conservation values of the forest 

Ngezi forest reserve is categorized among the top high priority sites of the East 

African Coastal sites. Important priority sites are those with high levels of 

biodiversity, by using species richness and degree of endemism together with the 

actions, which cause primary threats to the long-term survival of these sites. 

The approach for listing Ngezi Forest Reserve as amongst high priority sites include 

over four plant species and five animal species (IUCN 2000). The coastal forest on 

Mafia and Pemba Islands both of which receive almost 2000mm of average annual 

rainfall contain fewer endemic plant species compared to their counterparts on the 

mainland Tanzania. 

Ngezi is the only largest remaining forest in Pemba having some of the vegetation 

formations that are important locally and globally. The moist forest has assembled 

species population not found elsewhere on the East African Coastal Forests. Antiaris 

toxicaria is considered rare globally; however it is quite common in Ngezi associated 

with Quassia undulata and Bombax rhodognaphalon, species which are otherwise 

restricted to East African lowland coastal forests. The moist forests also contain 

montane species of Cassipourea, Erica and Drypetes. Besides, the reserve is also a 

globally unique habitat for Quassia indica with formidable populations in the swamp 

forest and the Madagascan link of Chrysalidocarpus and the monotypic swamp 

species of Typhonodorum lindleyanum. 

The Erica heath-land is a very unique habitat confined to Ngezi and Mafia Islands. It 

is one of the most vulnerable habitats to fire hazards; hence its conservation should be 

of global significance. Other habitats are economically important as sources of forest 

products, which includes timber, fruits and building materials (as evidenced in coastal 

dry evergreen forest), whereas the mangrove formations are essential as source of 

various building materials and for providing sanctuary marine life. 

The primary cause of the loss of diversity is the habitat perturbation that results from 

the increase of human populations and human interactions with ecological ecosystem. 

Plant species have provided local populations in the vicinity of the reserve and town 

residents a variety of forest products, the most important reason for preserving 

34

diversity is the role that micro-organisms, plants and animals play in providing free 

ecosystem services (Holdren & Ehrlich 1974). 

The loss of genetically distinct population within a species affects the entire species. It 

becomes difficult to recognize that the species has reached a danger mark needing 

instant steps to save it. Some of the rare and endemic species have not even been 

listed in world IUCN Red list such as Ensette and Erica mafiensis. Constant annual 

fire wipes out the Erica heathland e.g. the 1988 incident. The real impacts on 

biodiversity of the habitat have not been monitored. The impact is not only on plant 

diversity but also for the wildlife at large. There are other factors such as runaway 

human population growth, acid rains (rain polluted by oxides of nitrogen and sulphur 

produced by oil combustion from motor vehicles going through reserve) and climatic 

changes induced by human beings in areas close to the reserve in considering forest 

reserve. 

These arguments explain the basic causes and consequences of habitat destruction and 

alterations and give reason for great concern about their future including their 

protection. Conservation of the forest is important to protect the numerous genetically 

diverse populations to ensure the persistence of a species against any environmental 

changes that occur naturally. The existence of many plant populations spreads the risk 

so that unfavorable conditions in one or a few habitats do not threaten the entire 

species, like what normally happens to unique habitats like Erica bushland against fire 

or to what would happen if any catastrophe ever befall on Typhonodorus lindleyanum 

(a monotypic taxon) in its limited distributions of its occurrences in swamp forests. 

Pemba Island is presumed to have been deforested where some areas were affected 

harder than others. Many plant species have been lost even before being described. 

This may have been affected by rapid growth among communities of small-scale 

cultivators mainly through immigration labour force to work in the clove plantation. 

The tree species Syzygium aromaticum (Syns. Eugenia aromatica/Caryophyllus 

aromaticus) was introduced to Zanzibar and Pemba in 1818 and rapidly became a 

major crop for export. 

Its cultivation involved clearing of large forest areas. Many plant species and even 

animal species may have been lost in the process before even being known to science. 

Up to 1840’s most of Pemba was covered with forest. Forest clearance for clove 

plantation and other food crops (plantations and rice) took place in the last 150 years. 

It is estimated that over 95% of forestland was destroyed. Today Ngezi is the only 

large forest area remaining in Pemba. Other small forest areas are Ras Kiuyu and 

Msitu Mkuu forests (all < 20ha). Ngezi Forest Reserve is thus part of the historical 

and cultural inheritance of the people of Pemba apart from its other biological values. 

4.1.8 Conservation Status of the forest 

Ngezi Forest Reserve possesses a large number of near endemic species and a few 

strictly endemic and rare species. Pemba island, located 05 0 20’S, 39 0 45’E has own 

endemic/near endemic species different from the other offshore islands of Zanzibar 

and Mafia. It is supposed to possess the highest levels of endemism species 

(especially in wildlife species). There are four (4) endemic species which include 

Chrysalidocarpus pembanus, Erica mafiensis (sharing with Mafia Island), Ensete 

proboscoideum, Allophylus vestivus (near endemic), and Ananas comosus var. Ngezi 

35

forest reserve also ranks higher in terms of species – richness compared with its 

closely located Jozani Forest Reserve. According to the present study, Ngezi Forest 

Reserve possesses total number of 355 plant species compared with at least 291 

vascular plant species of Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park, Zanzibar. Rare species 

include Quassia undulate (moist forest), Erica mafiensis (in heath bushland only), 

Allophylus vestivus, Eugenia capensis, ssp. multiflora [=Eugenia sp.nov, Rodgers 

(1986), Beentje (1990)], much more widespread than previous reports. 

Typhonodorum lindleyamum confined to limited swamps (Plate 3a and 3b). 

Aleast 60 new species of vascular plants were recorded during this survey. The new 

list adds to the checklist of flora of Pemba documented from previous surveys. 

Undescribed species include Cyphostemma sp.nov., Uvaria sp.nov., and Tarenna 

sp.nov. These may later turn out to be new endemic species. Table 4.8a below 

illustrates new vascular plant species identified in Ngezi forest during a survey in 

January 2005. 

Table 4.8a: List of new records of plant species from Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Acanthaceae 

Hygrophylla auriculata 

Adiantaceae 

Pellaea leucomelas. Hook. 

Aloaceae 

Aloe massawana. Reynolds. 

Annonaceae 

Annona senegalensis. Pers.ssp.senegalensis 

Sphaerocoryne gracilis. Verdc. 

Uvaria acuminata. Oliv 

Uvaria lucida Benth.ssp.? lucida. 

Apocynaceae 

Voacanga africana. Stapf; raised sandy beaches. 

Asclepiadaceae 

Taccazea apiculata. Oliv. Climber in coral rag 

Bignoniaceae 

Adansonia digitata.L. isolated trees on coral rock coastal forest. 

Celastraceae 

Loesenerielia africana. (Willd.) N.Halle ssp. Richardiana (Cambess.)N.Halle 

Salacia leptoclada. Tul 

Combretaceae 

Combretum sp. Vent ssp. paniculatum. 

Compositae 

Ageratum conyzoides 

Psiadia punctulata (DC.) Vatke 

36

Connaraceae 

Agelaea setulosa 

Cyperaceae 

Cyperus dermatatus. 

Cyperus erectus.(Schum.) Mattf. & Kuk. 

Cyperus polystachyus. Rottb.var.laxiflorus (Benth.) K.Lye. 

Fimbristylis dicotoma. (L.) Vald. 

Fuirena ciliaris. (L.) Rottb. 

Fuirena ochreata. Kunth. 

Ebenaceae 

Euclea racemosa ssp.schimperi 

Euphorbiaceae 

Acalypha neptunica.Mnell.Arg 

Antidesma membranaceum. Mnell.Arg. 

Flacourtiaceae 

Xylotheca tettensis. 

Gramineae 

Panicum brevifolium L. 

Sacciolepis curvata 

Hymenophyllaceae 

Microgonium erosum (Willd.) Copel. Records from literature. 

Leguminosae – Papilionaceae 

Eriosema parviflorum. E.Mey. 

Indigofera trita. 

Sophora tomentosa. L.ssp.tomentosa 

Teramnus labialis (Linn.F.) Spreng 

Liliaceae 

Chlorophytum sp. 

Loganiaceae 

Strychnos panganensis. L.F 

Malvaceae 

Hibiscus surattensis. L. 

Melochia corcholifolia. L. 

Onagraceae 

Ludwigia abyssinica. A.Rich. 

Ludwigia jussiodes. 

Ludwigia stolonifera. (Gnill. & Perr.) Raven 

37

Orchidaceae 

Calanthe sylvatica (Thon. & Lindley). 

Palmae 

Calamus deerratus. G.Mann& H.Wendl. 

Polypodiaceae 

Microsorum punctatum (L.) Copel; New for Ngezi & (P&Z) 

Ophioglossaceae 

Ophioglossum reticulatum L. 

Pteridaceae 

Cyclosorus interuptus (Willd.) H.Ito 

Cyclosorus tottus (Thunb.) Pichi.serm. (840m too high for P&Z) 

Dicranopteris linearis. Altitude too high in FTEA 

Elaphoglossum lastii (Bak.) C.Chr; epiphytic 

Pteris acanthoneura. Alston. 

Pteris atrovirens (Willd.) 

Rubiaceae 

Pentadon pentandrus ( Schumach. & Thonn.). Vatke 

Psychotria amboniana. 

Psychotria riparia. (K.Schum.& K.Krause) Petit. 

Spermacoce confusa. Gillis. 

Trianolepis africana. Hook.F 

Rutaceae 

Toddalia sp. 

Sapindaceae 

Dodonaea viscosa. Jacq. 

Schizaeaceae 

Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R.Br. 

. 

Tiliaceae 

Grewia plasiocarpa. 

Verbenaceae 

Clerodendrum glabrum. E.Mey. 

Clerodendrum hildebrandtii. Vatke. 

Stachytaphytta urticifolia. Sims. 

Vitaceae 

Ampelocissus Africana 

Cissus phymatocarpa. 

Cissus rotundifolia. 

Cyphostemma duparquetii (Planch.) Desc. 

38

Table 4.8b: List of new records of non vascular (mushroom) plant species from 

Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Microporus xanthopus (Fr.) Kuntze 

Phellinus sp. 

Ganoderma sp.1 


Pleurotosus sajur – carju 

Trametes cf. gibbosa 

Trametes vesicolor 

Microporus sp.1 

Trametes elegans 


Laetiporus sulphorus (chicken of the woods) 

Funalia polyzona 

Schizophyllum commune 

Xylaria sp. 

4.1.9 Endemic, endangered and introduced plant species 

Endemic species 

Ngezi Forest reserve contains few strict endemic species or narrow range endemics, 

which include the following: 

• Connarus sp.nov. 

• Chrysolidicarpus pembanus. 

• Ensette proboscidium. 

• Ananas comosus var. (wild variety of Ananas). 

• Erica mafiensis (found also in Mafia Islands). 

• Vangueria sp. nov.vel.gem.aff. (Burgess et al. 2000). 

• Uvaria sp.nov. (Not in Beentje 1990) 

These are known as narrow endemics confined to a small area such as Ngezi Forest 

Reserve only. This low rate of floristic endemism somehow contrasts with the early 

theory that Island floras should usually be rich in endemic genera and taxonomically 

isolated groups (Burgess et al. 2000). 

The intensive anthropic perturbations about 2000 years ago are postulated to have 

reduced island species to small populations. These small populations were vulnerable 

to become extinct due to effects of genetic unviability, catastrophic events and the 

limited immigration rates from the mainland into the islands. 

However, Ngezi Forest Reserve shares many near endemic species with other Indian 

Ocean Coastal Forests and the Eastern Arc Forests. These are also known as broad 

endemics being distributed to a larger Zanzibar-Inhambane Regional Centre of 

endemism. These endemics include those listed in Table 4.9 below. The Island species 

supports the theory that Pemba Island was linked to mainland Tanzania which 

separated from it about 10 million years ago. 

39

Table 4.9: Endemic species of the Zanzibar-Inhambane regional centre of endemism 

including Lowland and Eastern Arc Forests occurring in Ngezi forest and surroundings 

in Pemba. 

Key: Som. = Somalia, K= Kenya, Z = Zanzibar, P = Pemba, Maf = Mafia, Moz = 

Mozambique, MN = Mozambique Niassa, Mal = Malawi, K1-7 = distributions across 

Kenyan regions. T3 = Tanga, T6 = Coastal Tanzania including Mafia, T8 = Lindi and 

Mtwara regions. 

Family Species name Distribution Notes 

ALOACEAE Aloe massawana K7;T3,6;Z,P&Mg Herb 

ANNONACEAE Sphaerocoryne 

gracile 

Uvaria acuminata 

K7;T3,6&8,P,Mg 

S.sam;K7;T3,6,8;P 

,Z 

S/L 

Liana 

APOCYNACEAE 

ARACEAE 

ARARIACEAE 

ASCLEPIADACEAE 

BOMBACACEAE 

Rauvolfia 

mombasiana 

Strophanthus 

zimmermannii 

Culcasia orientalis 

Zamioculcas 

zamiifolia 

Cussonia 

zimmermannii 

Secamone retusa 

Tylophora stenoloba 

Bombax 

rhodognaphalon 

K7; T3, 6;Z,P;MZ 

K7; T3, 6;Z, P 

K7;T3,6,8;Z,P 

K1,7;T3,6,Z,P,Mo 

z, - 

Mal 

K7;T3,6,8;P, Maf 

K7;T3,6;Z,P;Mn, 

Mz 

K7;T3,8;Z,P;Mn 

K7;T3,6,8;P;Mn, 

Mz,m-ms 

Shrub or 

small tree 

Climber 

Shrub 

Tree 

Climber 

Climber 

Timber tree 

BORAGINACEAE Ehretia bakeri K7;T2,3,6,8;P Shrub or 

tree 

COMPOSITAE Pluchea sordida 

Vernonia 

K4,7;T2,3,6,8;Z,P 

K7;T3,6,8;P 

Shrub 

Shrub 

sanzibarensis 

Family Species name Distribution Notes 

COMMELINACEAE 

Aneilema clarkei 

Murdonia axillaries 

K7,T6;P 

K7;P 

Herb 

Herb 

CONNARACEAE Cnestis confertiflora T6;P Liana / 

Shrub 

CYPERACEAE Cyperus 

K7,T3,6;Z,P Herb 

hildebrandtii 

DILLENIACEAE Tetracera litoralis K7;T6;P Shrub / 

Liana 

MALVACEAE Gossypioides kirkii S.Som;K7;T3,6,7, Shrub 

8;P;-Mn,Mz 

MENISPERMATAC 

EAE 

Tinospora 

oblongifolia 

K7;T3,6;Z,P Liana 

40

MORACEAE 

Dorstenia tayloriana K7;T3,6,8;P 

MYRTACEAE Eugenia 

P,Z 

Shrub 

sp.nov.(Vaughan 

1676) = Eugenia 

capensis 

ssp.multiflora 

OCHNACEAE Ochna thomasiana K7;T3,6;P Shrub 

PANDANACEAE Pandanus kirkii K7;T3,6;Z,P 

RUBIACEAE 

SAPOTACEAE 

Chassalia 

umbraticola 

Lampothramnus 

zanguebaricus 

Lagynias pallidiflora 

Psychotria holtzii 

Psydrax kaessneri 

Psydrax recurvifolia 

Inhambanella 

henriquesii 

Manilkara 

sansibarensis 

Manilkara sulcata 

K7;T3,6,8;Z,P,MN 

Som;K1,7;T3,6,8; 

P 

K7;T3,6;P 

K7;T3,6,8;P 

K7;T3,6,8;P,MN 

K7;T3,6;P 

K7;T3,6;P,Mz,Mal 

K7;T3,6,8;Z,P 

K1,4,7;T3,6;Z,P 

Shrub 

New tree 

for Pemba 

Shrub 

Shrub 

Shrub 

Shrub 

Tree 

Tree 

Tree 

SIMAROUBACEAE Quassia undulata K7;T3;P Timber tree 

THYMELIACEAE Synaptolepis kirkii K7;T3,6,8;Z,P,Mo 

z 

Shrub / 

Liana 

TILIACEAE Grewia stuhlmannii K7;T3,6,8,P 

VERBENACEAE Premna 

K4,7,T3,6,8;P Shrub 

hildebrandtii 

VITACEAE 

Cissus 

phymatocarpa 

Cissus 

quinquiangularis 

K4,7,T3,6,8;Z,P 

K7,P 

K7;T3,6,8,P 

K7;T3,6,Z,P 

Climber 

Climber 

Climber 

Climber 

Cissus sciaphylla 

Cyphostemma 

duparquetii 

ZINGIBARACEAE Costus sarmentosus K7;T3,6,Z,P Herb 

PTERIDOPHYTES Stenochlaena 

tenuifolia 

Z,P,Moz 

Climber 

Threatened plant species 

Having carried out field data and analyzing them it is possible to identify threatened 

species, and determine their IUCN categories. Major pressures and threats have also 

been identified. Tree forest species are outstanding economically at the source of 

many products essential to society (timber, fuel, medicines, food). Therefore, they are 

41

prone to decimation from harvesting. Second, they are prominent environmentally, as 

they are the keystone forest species forming tree canopy and helping to stabilize the 

environment by fixing CO 2 , preventing soil erosion and sustaining the water reservoir 

in the ecosystem. The trees are dominant ecologically as they determine a wealth of 

interactions. Conservation in situ is the primary method to sustain target species from 

decline and safeguard their genetic resources (Frankel et al. 1995). 

Table 4.10: Threatened plant species of Ngezi forest reserve, Pemba 

Species name Pressures and Conservation values Conservation 

threats 

measures 

Afzelia quanzensis Exploited for timber, Not in IUCN; but in Forest Experimental plots 

fuel wood. Timber Ordinance, threatened for plantation 

status insufficiently 

exports trade by 

(Annon.1902, 

identified 

Arabs since 1900. 

Wood 1966) 

(Moomaw 1960) 

considers it as 

premium timber for 

high class. 

Aloe masawana 

Antiaris toxicaria 

Manilkara 

sansibarensis 

Dalbergia 

melanoxylon 

Acampe sp. 

(Orchidaceae) 

Forest disturbance 

and collected for 

medicine and 

gardens 

Lesser timber value 

for construction, 

plywood, flooring, 

crates 

Timber resistant to 

wear and tear. 

Heavily exploited, 

durable in water, 

dhow building 

Special wood for 

carvings 

Harvest for garden 

plants. Threatened 

category 

All Aloe spp. in 

Appendix II (other 5 

Aloes from S. Africa 

in Appendix I) 

Key species in moist 

forest protects 

epiphytes like Vittaria 

elongate, Pemba 

flying fox roosting 

trees and bird nest 

Not included in the 

Red list 

Not included in IUCN, 

but being discussed as 

a threatened species; 

but in Red List 

Summary Report 

2000, LR/nt 

All Acampe spp. in 

Appendix II 

Ex situ protection 

in government 

garden. Restrict 

collection 

Restrict cutting for 

timber 

In situ 

conservation. 

Control its being 

harvested from 

forest reserve. 

Does well in 

plantation 

Protect tree 

harvests 

Aerangis hologlatis Threatened category Appendix II Control harvests 

Bulbophyllum sp. Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

Calanthe volkensii Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

Disperis johnstonii Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

Eulophia sp. Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

Nervilea umbrosa Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

42

Vanilla roscheri Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

Vanilla zanzibarica Threatened category All spp. in App. II Restrict harvesting 

Milicia Excelsa Being over Covered by Forest Stop issue of 

harvested for ordinance 1995; Cover licences, Monitor 

premium timber under Red list regeneration 

Summary Report 2000 

as LR/nt 

Chrysalidocarpus 

pembanus 

Endemic and 

vulnerable species 

Not listed in IUCN but 

very important to list it 

in App. I/II 

Well distributed in 

moist and dry 

coastal forests 

Vittaria elongata Vulnerable only to Not in IUCN Protect keystone 

Erica mafiensis 

Typhonodorum 

lindleyanum 

moist forest 

Destruction of 

heathland by fire 

especially caused by 

hunters in dry season 

Rare habitats, 

restricted to few 

swamps 

categories 

Endemic and restricted 

to two sites only in 

Ngezi Forest Reserve. 

The heathland here is 

very unique 

Species in the genus, 

rare 

Psilotus nudum Rare species Should be included in 

IUCN category 

Xylotheca tettensis Rare Red list, Summary 

Report 2000 Vu BH 

2c 

trees 

Stop man-made 

fire by restricting 

entry and 

collection of 

fuelwood, poles 

Conserve the 

swamps, amenity 

Identify all sites 

where it grows 

Identify all uses of 

the species 

Introduced plant species 

In the mixed moist forest the exotic species, apart from playing the role of beating up 

the gaps created by overharvested timber trees, they are usually useful timber trees in 

their countries of origin. These exotic species, with their countries of origin in 

brackets include Calopyllum inophyllum (Borneo mahogany), Cordia alliodora 

(Mexico), Casuarina equisetifolia best firewood in the world (Indomalasia, also 

pioneer seashore tree, Artocarpus altilis (Pacific Islands, cultivated tropical fruit tree 

less often for timber) Artocarpus heterophyllus (native of tropical ASIA excellent 

timber tree for furniture besides producing huge edible fruit), Cedrella odorata 

(Mexico, West Indies to North Argentina) highly regarded for joinery of all kinds 

(formerly most favoured for cigar boxes), Maesopsis eminii (Tropical Africa probably 

Uganda) it is becoming a noxious weed; Tabebuia rosea (Mexico to venezuela), 

Terminalia arjuna (India). 

Other exotic species include Terminalia catappa (India, Barbados and Malay 

Pensinsular), Terminalia ivorensis (West Africa), Mangifera indica (Indomalaysia, 

also cultivated for fruit), Eucalyptus ssp. including Eucalyptus camaldulensis 

(Australia). Some of these exotic trees were intoduced to Ngezi forest incidentally by 

humans or monkeys and wild pigs especially fruit trees of Art acarpus spp. Mangifera 

indica, Cocos nucifera (naturalized in East Africa and Terminalia catappa. Some 

lowland native forest species of Khaya anthotheca and Entandrophragma are useful 

enrichment plantation trees such as in Cameroun. These two species have been tried 

in Ngezi forest reserve. Tectona Grandis is a native to Burma, India, and Indonesia to 

the Phillipines. It is a highly priced plantation tree in Tanzania popularly known as 

teak. It is widely used for quality timber. 

43

Some species have beeen introduced to Ngezi as a conservation measure. Such 

species which are endemic in their countries of origin were translocated to new 

suitable sites which act as refugia in case of holocausts in their natural habitats. Ngezi 

forest reserve in Pemba Island is a useful isolated refugium site for such rare species 

facing extinction in their native countries. This principle is recommended in the 

‘’Plant Conservation in protected Natural Areas’’ (Given 1994). These species include 

Typhonodorum lindleyanum (Madagascar, Mascarene and now in most lawland 

coastal East African forests), Calamus sp. and Quassia indica (India). Another species 

also introduced to Ngezi is Quassia indica, which is endemic to India. Both species 

occur in very fragile swamp habitats that can easily be destroyed and hence make the 

species become extinct. 

4.2 Fauna 

4.2.1 Mammal occurrence and distribution 

Only a few of the large mammal species reported to be present in Ngezi were 

encountered during the survey either through direct observation or signs (Table 4.11). 

Mammals tended to occur in all forest areas though habitat types and human 

interference influenced the distribution. Various species of mammals were recognised 

within Ngezi forest and the surroundings (Appendix 3). The most abundant group of 

mammals at Ngezi forest are bats and the Black Rat (Rattus rattus) and Tree Hyrax 

(Dendrohyrax validus) that were estimated by call sites. Other large mammals sighted 

physically during the survey included the Zanzibar Red Colobus (Piliocolobus kirkii), 

Pemba Green Monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops nesiotes). Basically Pemba Green 

monkeys was the most commonly sighted animal and almost in all habitat types. It 

was also the only animal which featured most from foot count transects records. Most 

other species were recorded from signs such as galagos, genets, civets and owls. The 

team was lucky to get a specimen of the Greater galago at Konde village from 

children who were playing with it and took photographs and measurements. The 

distribution of most species was widespread within the forest and their occurrence 

outside the forest reserve was not common except for few such as monkeys who are 

also common in farmland areas. The distribution of most species is possibly shrinking 

due to hunting, farming, settlements and human disturbances. Below is a synopsis of 

some key animal species of Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserves. 

Table 4.11: Animals and animal signs observed during foot count in Ngezi – Vumawimbi 

forest reserves, Pemba (January 2005) 

SN Species Observation Sightings 

Transect/Frequency 

T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 

1 Vervet monkeys Animals 1 18 

Animals 1 12 

Animals 1 1 

Animals 1 2 

Animals 1 3 

Sign Food remains 1 

Sign Droppings and 

1 

food remains 

Sign Ground mark 1 

Signs Urine 2 

Animals 1 9 

Sign Droppings 1 

44

Animals 1 4 

Sign Footmarks 4 

Sign Droppings 1 

Sign Skull 1 

Sign Droppings and 

urine 

1 

2 Bushbaby 

3 Marsh mongoose 

4 Tree hyrax 

5 Ngawa 

Animals 1 1 

Sign Food remains 1 

Animals 1 1 

Signs Remains of 2 

feed (snails) 

Signs Foot print 1 

Signs Pellets and 1 

urine 

Signs Pellets and 

1 

smell 

Signs Sound 1 

Signs Urine and smell 1 

Signs Smell 1 

Signs footprint 2 1 

Animal 1 1 

6 Bushpig Signs Dung and 

feeding signs 

1 

7 Bats Signs Smell 1 

8 Rattus rattus Animals 1 1 1 1 

9 Domestic dog Signs Footprints 1 

As seen from Table 4.11 above only few animals were recorded along the transects 

during the foot count. Out of the 9 animal species recorded only 4 were seen live 

including vervet monkeys, bushbaby, civet cat, and Black rat whereas the rest were 

recorded from animal signs only. Again like the resulsin Jozani National park the 

amount of data collected did not suffice to perform any meaningful calculations for 

animal density except for vervet monkeys which featured in almost all transects. At 

mean strip width of 27.7 m (pooled for all 6 transects) the vervet monkey density was 

estimated at 121 animals per km 2 a relatively high density not found in many places. 

Vervet monkeys also registered a high index of relative density at 0.9 signs per km 

covered during the foot count. Other animals with index of relative density in 

parenthenses were bushbaby (0.07 signs km), marsh mongoose (0.21 signs km), tree 

hyrax (0.34 signs km), ngawa (0.21 signs km), bushpig (0.07 signs km) bats (0.07 

signs km), Black rats (0.21 signs km) and domestic dog 0.07 signs km). However, 

despite animals like Black rat showed very low occurrence from foot count transects 

they are one of the most abundant animals in the forest. The small number was due to 

hiding and freezing habit when they sense disturbance. 

45

35 

30 

30 

Number of animals 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

0 

9 

3 3 

4 

0 

1 2 3 4 5 6 

Transect number 

Figure 4.4: Number of vervet monkeys observed on 6 foot count transects sampled in 

Ngezi – Vumawimbi forest reserves, Pemba (January 2005). 

Zanzibar Red Colobus (Piliocolobus kirkii) (Kima punju) 

Seven individuals were introduced in Ngezi from Jozani in 1979 to establish a herd. 

The numbers incresed and curenlty their numbers are estimated to be over 35 

individuals. It is not clear of their exact number, as it is very difficult to sight them. 

The colobus are currently confined to the east of the forest in Kisiwani area because to 

the west of the forest the colobus were being hunted and there is heavy human 

disturbance. No colobus was seen during the foot count but three individuals were 

seen on a separate visit to Kisiwani area. There have been no reports of negative 

impact arising from the introduction of the colobus in Ngezi or rather it is not 

apparent at least at the moment. The forest habitat in Ngezi is very ideal for the 

colobus and there is a big potential for the species to increase in numbers. 

The Zanzibar red colobus is a species endemic to Zanzibar. It is listed as endangered 

in the IUCN threatened species categories and appears in Appendix I of CITES. It was 

investigated by Sir John Kirk, the Governor General of Zanzibar in 1868 and named 

after him. Other members of the red colobus group are widespread. The Zanzibar red 

colobus weighs 7 - 13 kgs. and exhibits diverse dietary habits, sometimes reported as 

crop pest. Its preferred habitat includes the ground water, coral rag, and deep soil and 

mangrove forests. Occurrence in cultivated and areas under fallow is reported to be 

due to loss of preferred habitat. The Zanzibar red colobus is the flagship species of 

Zanzibar's terrestrial conservation effort and a major tourist attraction. The 

conservation effort of the colobus started over 134 years ago because in 1868 Sir John 

Kirk described the colobus as "rare" in Zanzibar. Official role of the colobus 

protection began in 1919 and continued during the Sultan of Zanzibar regime. Since 

1995 local community support has been sought in the conservation of the colobus. 

African Clawless Otter (Aonyx capensis) 

46

For the first time this animal has been reported to occur in Ngezi (Pemba). It is a 

widely distributed species in African permanent fresh water bodies, which include 

lakes, rivers and streams where its food (mainly cabs and catfish) is abundant. This 

species is most active at night and so making its observation difficult for many people. 

A single animal was recorded at Makangale swamp where dung deposits were also 

evident. The observation becomes the first record of the species on Pemba Island. 

This species is widely distributed in Africa and is placed under CITES Appendix II. 

The population of African Clawless Otter and its conservation status in Pemba need to 

be checked. 

Pemba Blue Duiker (Cephalophus monticola pembae) (Paa wa Pemba) 

This is a rare, threatened and an endemic sub species to Pemba. Once abundant in the 

forest their numbers have been severely reduced by hunting and possibly habitat loss. 

Sightings of the same are now very rare and none was seen during the whole survey. 

Their population size remains unclear but most probably very low. Blue duikers are 

diurnal forest antelopes. Males are usually smaller weighing on the average 4.6 kg. 

than females who weigh on the average 5.4 kg. Blue duikers feed primarily on fruits, 

foliage and fungi although ocassionally they have been observed to feed on small 

mammals, reptiles, birds and insects. 

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) (Nguruwe mwitu) 

This was a European species introduced to Pemba in the 16 th century by the 

Portuguese who occupied the island by then. They became feral, numerous and very 

destructive to crops. Of recent their numbers have dwindled severely due to heavy 

hunting and habitat loss. This has probably made the animals to become more 

secretive occupying deep forest areas. None was seen during the survey. Only few 

sightings are reported by the local people. 

Pemba Green monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops nesiotes) 

Although the taxonomy of this subspecies in relation to its siblings in Zanzibar, Mafia 

and mainland Tanzania is complex, it is generally agreed that this is subspecies and is 

endemic to Pemba (Pakenham 1984). The Pemba vervet is found in a variety of 

habitats in Pemba Island especially places with large trees and farms. These vervets 

are known to be more destructive to crops than Cercopithecus mitis. Although present 

in Ngezi forest, they are mostly found in peripheral areas of the forest in areas 

bordering farmland. However, the vervets are also fairly common in the forest and 

were encountered in almost all 6 foot count transects. They were the most common, 

widespread and relatively most abundant animal species in the area. Sightings ranged 

from 1 individual to over 20 individuals in one place. Animals seen alone or in small 

numbers were basically due to inability of the observer to see other members of the 

herd. The distribution and abundance of vervets in Ngezi suggests that this is one of 

the most successful species in the area. 

Prosimians (galagos) 

Greater Galago (Otolemur garnettii garnettii) 

This is a threatened species according to the IUCN redlist. They prefer diet of 

mangoes, pawpaws and similar fruits. The Garnett's galago occurs in coastal forests of 

Eastern Africa including Pemba and Zanzibar and it is very common in both islands. 

It is confined to coastal forests and thickets and the Eastern Arc Mountains. During 

the survey in Ngezi forest, Greater galagos were mostly heard from vocalisation both 

47

in the forest and inhabitated areas. A specimen was obtained from children in Konde 

village. Vocalisations suggested that galagos are fairly common in the area. 

Galagos are found only in Africa south of the Sahara but are absent at the Cape. 

Morphologically similar species can be identified by vocalisation. Galagos occupy a 

range of habitats from forest, thickets, wooded savannah, deciduous woodland to treecrop 

plantations depending on the species. Habitat loss and possibly hunting are 

probably the greatest potential threats to galagos. 

Javan or Rasse Civet (Viverricula indica rasse) (Ngawa) 

This is an exotic species introduced to Pemba and Zanzibar at an early date but it is 

not exactly known when. It belongs to India-Indochina-Malaya region and was 

brought to Pemba by the Javanese sailors. The secretions from the civet, which are 

used in perfume industry, is believed to to be the main reason Javan sailors introduced 

the species in every place they went. The civet secretions are also known to be a 

remedy to swellings. The species has become relatively successful and ha established 

itself on the island. It is widely distributed occupying a variety of habitats, and their 

sightings are fairly common. In Pemba there is no indigenous African civet hence the 

introduced civet flourished unchallenged. In Zanzibar since its introduction the civet 

has coexisted with the African civet Viverra civetta. No negative impacts have been 

established in Zanzibar between the Javan civet and its counterpart the African civet 

with which they share habitats. 

Small mammals 

There is a significant gap in the knowledge of taxonomy and distribution of smaller 

mammals, especially forest species and those, which are nocturnal or difficult to 

detect such as bats, rodents and shrews. On the other hand shrews, bats, galagos, 

rodents, antelopes and elephant shrews are mammal groups showing the highest levels 

of endemism in coastal forests. Most small mammals observed were caught in traps 

and some were seen during night drives. Few animals were sighted opportunistically. 

Rodents particulalrly Black rat Rattus rattus was very common in all forest habitats. It 

is the most abundant small mammal in Ngezi. Only few shrews were observed 

through capture in pitfall traps. Shrews are probably not common in the area. Marsh 

mongooses are present and at least one sighting and a number of signs were observed. 

There was one sighting of slender mongoose. Lack of capture of most small 

mamamals and few sightings during survey suggest that most of them are locally rare. 

Shrews 

Shrews of East Africa are not well known, their distribution is restricted and do not 

commonly occur in all habitats. Generic and species diversity in coastal forests is 

lower than in the Eastern Arc Mountain forests (Burgess and Clarke, 2000). Although 

Zanzibar shrew species richness is comparatively high in relation to most coastal 

forests on the mainland the situation is different in Pemba. Only 3 specimens were 

obtained during the survey with over 462-trap effort. On the other hand Zanzibar has 

2 genera and 4 species of shrews including the African Giant Shrew (Crocidura 

olivieri), Zanzibar Pygmy Shrew (Crocidura fuscomurina), larger Savanna Shrew 

(Crocidura viaria) and the Indian Musk Shrew (Suncus murinus). The Zanzibar 

Pygmy Shrew is the most common and widespread species in Africa (Burgess and 

Clarke, 2000). 

48

Rodents (Muridae) 

At least three types of rats occur in Pemba all of them introduced species. These 

include White - bellied house mouse (Mus musculus gentilis), Brown or Common rat 

(Rattus norvegicus) and Black or House rat (Rattus rattus) (Moreau and Pakenham, 

1941; Pakenham, 1984). Archeological evidence and past records and studies do not 

indicate presence of other rat species in Pemba. Of the three species Rattus rattus is 

the most common and abundant rodent in Ngezi forest. It is found in all habitats and 

featured more than any other trapped species. There was no sighting or report on the 

other two species. 

Our sampling yielded only a single species of rodent, Rattus rattus, the Black Rat. 

This species is known world wide as a pest of human dwellings, as a destroyer of 

fresh and stored food and food products. Rodents and their relationships with people 

are increasingly receiving more attention than has been the case in the past (Singleton 

et al., 2003). They are important as reservoirs of several diseases, including plague. 

On Pemba, however, Rattus rattus is known not only as a pest of dwellings, but it was 

in addition trapped in all habitats sampled, including relatively dense forest, in Ngezi 

forest reserve. In most forest reserves on the mainland, even in those surrounded by 

villages and cultivation, R. rattus is only found at the edge of forest near human 

settlements and other native rodent species are known to occur inside forest. In 

coastal forests as well as those of the Eastern Arc, usually several species of rodents 

are present (Msuya et al. 2004, Burgess et al. 2000, Stanley et al. 1998). Even on 

Zanzibar the nearest island to Pemba, at least five species of native rodents are present 

(Nahonyo et al. 2002). 

On some islands in the Western Indian Ocean region, more extensive studies have 

been conducted on the Black Rat in relation to its control, effects on human health, 

and on the native endemic species of rodents on those islands. Such is the case on 

Madagascar, which also has an endemic rodent fauna (Duplantier & Rakotondravony 

1999) and the granitic islands of the Seychelles, which like Pemba, appear to have no 

native rodents, but do have both Rattus rattus and Rattus norvegicus; the only other 

terrestrial mammals found there are bats (Hill et al. 2003). 

Rattus rattus as pest 

When reviewing the literature, what is surprising is that there appears to have been 

little attention paid to the ecological role of Rattus rattus on Pemba. This species is 

recognized as a major pest of man and his crops, but we found no published 

references to its abundance, breeding or effects on agriculture and humans on Pemba. 

There are numerous studies conducted in many countries on the negative effects of the 

Black Rat (as well as other Rattus species) on oil palm plantations and this species is 

also known to be a pest of coconuts on Mafia and SongoSongo Islands (K. M. 

Howell, pers. observ.; C. A. Msuya, pers. observ. 2005). In addition, studies have 

indicated the negative effects of the introduced Black Rat on native fauna, including 

birds (Hill et al. 2003). 

Rattus rattus as vector of diseases 

The Black Rat is widely recognized not only as involved in the transmission of plague 

(through the plague bacillus, Yersinia pestis) but also potentially in the transmission 

of murine typhus, relapsing fever, leishmaniasis, leptospirosis and many undescribed 

49

viruses. Recent work has pointed to the role of Rattus rattus on islands as important in 

the transmission of Fasciola hepatica, a fluke (flatworm) important in the human 

disease fascioliasis. Valero et al. (1998) studied experimentally infected Rattus rattus 

on Corsica in Italy, and suggested that Rattus rattus found in the wild may act as a 

reservoir for the fluke and contributed to its wide extent on Corsica. Mas-Cona et al. 

(1999) found that human fascioliasis was present even where the fluke was not a 

veterinary problem, suggesting that Rattus rattus may be important in the life cycle of 

the parasite. Helminth parasites of Rattus also may be involved in the transmission of 

parasites to cattle as well. 

Specific observations and recommendations on Rattus rattus in Ngezi - Vumawimbi 

forest reserves 

The lack of data on Rattus rattus (and any other rodents which may be found on 

Pemba, such as Rattus norvegicus) is of concern not only with regard to Ngezi forest 

reserve, but also to the well being of the human population on all parts of the island 

and the economy generally. 

The lack of published data from Pemba on Rattus rattus leads to the suggestion of 

the following priorities: 

The need for regular, periodic trapping surveys of Rattus rattus (and possibly Rattus 

norvegicus and others) using standardized techniques, to follow the reproductive 

trends in the rodent populations. 

It is important to recognize the disease potential present in the Rattus population, 

which is found not only in association with dwellings, but also in natural and 

disturbed habitats. Evidence suggests that any intensive study of rodents will yield 

various types of viruses. 

If suitable funding and personnel can be found, it should be feasible to conduct 

parasite surveys at the same time as the general rodent surveys are conducted. There is 

every likelihood of finding new viruses, because such was the case when a population 

of R. norvegicus was studied in Australia (Macdonald et al. 1999). 

There is also a need to carefully assess the damage done to various crops (as well as 

possibly to tree seeds and seedlings) by Rattus rattus. This could be done with the 

assistance of local farmers using a participatory research process, as well as by 

quantified assessment of crop damage in the field. 

The issue of whether or not other rodents were ever found on Pemba is of much more 

than theoretical interest, it has considerable ecological implications. This might be 

done by careful examination of fossil remains, as well as examining bones associated 

with early human settlements excavated in Pemba. 

Bats 

At least 14 species of bats occur in Pemba and 42% of the bat species known for 

Pemba were recorded in Ngezi forest during the survey. Bats are abundant in Ngezi 

and surrounding areas occupying a variety of habitats including forest, woodland, 

thickets and caves. Two bat species occurring in Pemba are threatened, including the 

Pemba flying fox (Pteropus voeltzkowi) which is endemic to Pemba and is classified 

by IUCN as threatened, and Decken's Horse-shoe Bat (Rhinolophus deckeni) which is 

50

considered threatened though there is data deficiency is establishing its actual 

conservation status. The diversity of bats and their abundance seems to dominate in 

the total counts of all mammals encountered. 

A large roost of the small insectivorous bats (Hipposiderus caffer) was found just 

outside the forest at Makangale village. The bat cave site is an attraction for tourism 

and of conservation importance. During a brief visit to the site the bat population in 

the caves was estimated to be about 5,000. Many other species of bats were roosting 

in forest and came out to feed at dusk/night on either insects or fruits around the 

villages and swampy areas. 

Among these was the endemic Pemba Flying Fox (Pteropus voetzkowi), which could 

be recognized by, is large size and flight in many parts of the island as they came out 

to feed as soon as the darkness approached. The highest count of these bats leaving 

the forest was made from an observation point at the edge of Makangale swamp, 

where an estimate of 40 bats were crossing a point per minute as from 18.45hrs to 

19.30hrs. Bats were heading to the north, dispersing into cultivation in the 

surrounding and to longer distances. A quick estimate of Pemba Flying Foxes that 

crossed the observation point was about 1,800 individuals on that particular evening. 

Another well-established roost for the flying foxes is that at graveyard forest patch at 

Kidike village where the population is estimated to be 8,000, but fluctuating with 

seasons. During this study we realized there was a need for identifying the existing 

roosts for these bats in Ngezi forest and setting up a monitoring programme. 

Pemba flying fox (Popo wa Pemba) (Pteropus voeltzkowi) 

Pemba flying fox is one of the largest bats weighing 500g with a wingspan of one 

metre. It is russet in colour with black wings. This is an endemic species to Pemba 

and was listed by IUCN as Critically Endangered species in 1996. The bat occurs in 

colonies of up to 1000 individuals roosting in tall trees in forests, overgrown clove 

plantations and semi agricultural areas. It also occurs in graveyards hence reinforcing 

its association with ancestral spirits as explained in the local folklore. 

The conservation of Pemba flying fox gained international attention in early 199’s 

after a publication in Oikos journal which alarted the interntional community of the 

threats facing the species due to mainly hunting for food and habitat loss. Two 

programmes were established to involve communities in the effort. The SMZ in 

collaboration with CARE conducted an island wide survey to estimate the bats 

population numbers and roosting sites. 

There has also been a local initiative by the loca communities to conserve the flying 

fox’s main roosting site at Kidike (Mjini Ole). Since 1992, 200 bats migrated to the 

village graveyard and started roosting on Migulele trees (Antiaris toxicaria) the 

dominat and large trees at the graveyard. The graveyard roost later became a local and 

international conservation and tourist attraction. Villagers established Kidike 

Environmntal Club an NGO that deals with the strict protection of the roost and bats 

as well as environmental issues in general. The NGO operates using funds from 

member’s contributions, some small contributions provided by visitors coming to the 

site, and some international organizations such as International Flora and Fauna of 

UK and other countries. The NGO with 80 members (but only 20 active) closely 

monitors activities at the roost site and no one is allowed to enter the area without 

their permission. Reports show that at least 10 bats die per month through fighting and 

natural causes. When bats go out to feed often tend to come back with new 

51

individuals who do not leave the roost hence making it grow in size. The bats are not 

reported to cause a serious problem to the people except eating of mangoes but the 

area has only few mango trees hence the impact is minimal. One of the potential 

problems indicated by the Kidike NGO leaders is that the main roosting trees for the 

bats the Migulele are not showing a good sign of regeneration. Conservation 

authorities in Pemba have to make sure that this very important roost is monitored, 

protected and maintained. This should include continued assistance by the SMZ 

(Natural Resources Authorities) to Kidike NGO activities. 

4.2.2 Relative abundance of animals 

Overall the few mammals present appeared to be widely distributed in the study area 

though individual species or groups tended to occur more in certain habitats than 

others. The catch was highly skewed towards rodents (Rattus rattus) and to some 

extent amphibians. The low catch among amphibian groups was attributed to the lack 

of rain during the survey time. Few mammals except Vervet monkeys were physically 

seen in the six transects covered during the animal foot count census to warrant any 

meaningful density calculation. 

The relative abundance of some mammals is summarized in Table 4.12 below. 

Factors including occurrence and distribution, population numbers, rarity and 

endemism have been taken into account. 

Table 4.12: Total number of fauna specimens captured in traps (bucket pitfalls, snaps, 

Sherman’s, cage) in Ngezi forest, Pemba (January 2005) 

Transect (T) 

Animal group 

Total 

Shrews Rodents Reptiles Amphibians 

1. Kwa Joshi trail 0 5 10 6 21 

2. Makangare bwawani 3 20 2 27 52 

3. Erica bushland 0 0 3 1 4 

4. Chokaani coral rag 0 7 6 0 13 

5. Maeopsis mixed 0 10 1 6 17 

stand 

6. Machopeni 0 14 5 3 22 

Total 3 56 27 43 129 

52

Frequency 

30 

25 

20 

15 

10 

5 

Shrews 

Rodents 

Reptiles 

Amphibians 

0 

T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 

Transect 

Figure 4.5: Total catch of various taxonomic groups of fauna using bucket pitfalls, snap 

and live traps in Ngezi forest, Pemba (January 2005) 

53

Table 4.13: Relative abundance of some vertebrate groups and species in Ngezi - 

Vumawimbi forest reserves, Pemba (Source: This survey; various sources) 

Animal group Species Relative abundance 

Mammals 

Pemba Blue Duiker 

Rare 

Shrews 

Rare 

Galagos 

Moderate 

Zanzibar Red Colobus 

Rare 

Bats 

Abundant 

Pemba flying fox 

Abundant 

Vervet Monkeys 

Abundant 

Wild boar 

Rare 

Rodents 

Very abundant 

Civets 

Rare 

Marsh mongoose 

Rare 

Cape Clawless Otter 

Rare 

Birds 

Waterbids 

Pemba scops Owl 

Dickson’s Kestrel 

Pemba Green Pigeon 

Pemba Sunbird 

Pemba White Eye 

Violet-backed Starling 

Crowned Hornbill 

Other bird groups 

Abundant 

Moderate 

Abundant 

Moderate 

Abundant 

Abundant 

Rare 

Abundant 

Moderate 

Reptiles 

Amphibians 

Snakes 

Chameleons 

Lizards and skinks 

Abundant 

Rare 

Abundant 

Moderate 

4.2.3 Animal species richness and diversity 

The indices of species diversity considered only those species captured in the traps. 

The Shannon Weaver diversity index takes into account the number of individuals for 

each species as well as the total number of species. Three main taxonomic groups 

including mammals (shrews and rodents) reptiles and amphibians were captured on 

the traps. This included 2 species of mammals, 3 species of reptiles and 3 species of 

amphibians. When other species not captured on the traps are considered then a higher 

number of species could be recorded. The number of species trapped on each transect 

were: trapline 1 (4 species), trapline 2 (6 species), trapline 3 (2 species), trapline 4 (4 

species) trapline 5 (3 species) and trapline 6 (4 species). When considering the main 

taxonomic groups captured on the diversity was H’ was found to be 0.4965 with H’ max 

= of 0.6021 and homogeneity J = 0.8246. The species diversity for pooled results 

estimate the species diversity H’ = 0.6669 and H’ max = 0.9031 and homogeneity J = 

0.7385. No attempt was made to estimate species diversity for individual transects 

due to the poor catch. 

4.2.4 Important habitats for animals 

54

Different animal groups occur in different habitat types. Although certain animals can 

occur in a variety of habitats but there are habitats, which are more ideal for a species 

or taxonomic group. Most mammals utilise the forest and thicket habitats as they 

provide both sufficient food and cover. However some animals may occur in less 

desirable habitats mainly due to loss of habitat or disturbances in the desirable areas. 

The forest habitat is particularly important for primates and prosimians and also other 

animal groups such as bushpigs, rodents, shrews, bats, amphibians and invertebrates. 

The forest is the habitat that harbours a high diversity of species and animal groups. 

Other habitat types tend to be supposedly ideal for limited number of animal groups 

or species generally due to resources limitations and other environmental attributes. 

Table 4.14: Distribution of different habitats in Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserves, 

Pemba 

Species F WG EL RP CR M MF FM MW 

Zanzibar Red Colobus * 

Pemba Blue Duiker * * * 

Wild boar * 

Galagos * * * * * * 

Mongooses * 

Shrews * 

Bats * * * * * * 

Vervet Monkeys * * * * * * * * * 

Birds * * * * * * * * * 

Reptiles * * * * * * * * 

Amphibians * * * * 

Molluscs * * * * * 

Lepidoptera * * * * * * * * * 

Odonata 

Orthoptera 

Legend: F = moist forest, WG = wooded grassland, EL = Erica bushland, RP = rubber 

plantation, CR = coral rag, M = Maeopsis forest, MF = mangrove forest, FM = Farmland, 

MW = marshes/wetlands 

4.2.5 Animal movement and migration 

Jozani forest and surrounding areas are remnants of the rain forest and receives a 

substantial amount of rain during the long and short rains. As such variation in 

environmental parameters like humidity and temperature variation is low (UNEP, 

2001). This tends to make the seasonal differences minimal. Most of the forest 

remains evergreen. Plants produce fresh leaves, flowers and fruits for most of the year 

depending on phenology. Animals therefore are able to get their requirements in the 

same area for most of the year. Some animals in search of food and shelter or water 

exhibit daily, short-term movements. In certain situations animals are forced to move 

from one area to another due to human disturbances such as hunting. These 

movements are generally confined within the forest area or may extend outside in 

some places for certain species. For most species particularly large mammals, heavily 

hunted and shy animals, areas outside protected areas are encroached and disturbed 

hence do not form favourable habitat for the animals. The local people reported no 

specific movement routes for the animals. 

55

4.2.6 Birds 

Bird survey on Pemba was conducted opportunistically in Ngezi forest and the surrounding 

areas with a few observations made along Vumawimbi and Chokaani beaches. The exercise 

was conducted in January when field conditions were generally dry with limitation of fresh 

water bodies, no breeding activities and absence of migratory species. About 45% of the 

species reported in previous surveys (Pakenham, 1979) were recorded with addition of 

Violet–backed Starling (Table 4). Ngezi forest being one of the least disturbed habitats on the 

island is diverse in microhabitats that are suitable for birds and other forms of life. The forest 

is important in hosting almost all Pemba endemic bird species (Pemba Green Pigeon, Pemba 

Scops-Owl, Dickson’s Kestrel, Pemba Sunbird and Pemba White-eye were found in Ngezi 

forest). 

Pemba Green Pigeon was common but difficult to detect. Flocks of up to 15 

individuals were found in forest near forest gate office and Machopeni area feeding 

quietly in high canopy. The population of Pemba Scops Owl in Ngezi forest based on 

calls is relatively high when compared to areas outside the forest. While camping in 

the forest, Scops Owl calls were heard throughout the nights from all corners and their 

territorial spacing is estimated to be about 300m. The high abundance of this species 

may be explained by food (Rattus rattus) available in the Ngezi forest as supported by 

our trapping success (Appendix 2). Pemba Sunbird and White Eye were common in 

forest and cultivation. 

Pemba Scops Owl (Otus pembanensis) 

This small owl is endemic to Pemba Island where it inhabits densely foliaged habitats 

including forests, clove plantation, mangrove and patches of forests that are used as 

graveyards. Observations made in Ngezi Forest Reserve suggest that the population of 

the owl is relatively high in the forest. Calls were recorded throughout the night from 

mid-canopy with territorial spacing of about 300m. The intensity of calling was high 

from sundown until midnight and less so until dawn. Assuming that there is even 

distribution of this species in Ngezi forest and in other areas on Pemba Island, the 

population may be considered as marginally threatened. 

4.2 7 Reptiles 

Within Ngezi forest and its surroundings (cultivations, sandy and coral rag beaches 

and wetlands) suitable habitats for reptiles are well represented. Fifteen (62.5%) of the 

known reptile species on Pemba (Pakenham, 1983) were recorded during the study 

period (Appendix 2). The most abundant and widely distributed species of the reptiles 

in Ngezi forest was the Pemba endemic skink (Mabuya albotaeniata). The species 

was very common in leaf litter on forest floor and less common in cultivation and 

settlements where they coexist with Mabuya striata. 

Marine forms were not encountered since much of the surveys were carried out in 

terrestrial environment. The sandy beaches around Vumawimbi are prospective areas 

for the breeding of Green Turtles. However, due to disturbance resulting from fishing 

and beach visitors the area seems unsafe for sea turtles to breed. 

4.2.8 Amphibians 

The community of amphibians on Pemba Island may be considered as East African 

coastal. The species richness on the island is low when compared to that of Zanzibar 

and other areas along the coast of East Africa. Seven species from 4 families were 

recorded on this study suggesting addition of two records from the previous 

56

knowledge (Table 4.11 and Appendix 6). Pakenham (1983) reported 6 species with a 

notion of inadequate collecting. This study was conducted under dry condition when 

most of the amphibians were expected to be aestivating. Conducting a further survey 

under wet condition may yield some additional species. 

Unconfirmed species of Phrynobatrachus was collected in Ngezi forest around 

Kwajoshi and Machopeni. According to previous reports the only member of this 

genus found on the island is P. pakenhami, which is endemic to Pemba. However, 

The taxonomic status of Phrynobatrachus parkenhami is very uncertain due to the 

fact that the animals collected on Pemba do not fit well with the description of both P. 

pakenhami and P. acridoides. The snought-vent measurements and body texture of 

the three specimens collected suggest a different species. In this report the species is 

questionably been regarded as P. pakenhami. 

4.2.9 Endemic species of animals 

Many species on Pemba and Zanzibar have existed or evolved in isolation from 

mainland Tanzania for thousands of years. This has resulted in the development of a 

number of endemic and near endemic species. At least 27 fauna species are known to 

be endemic to Pemba (Table 4.15). 

Table 4.15: Endemic and near endemic fauna species and sub species of Pemba (Source: 

Moreau and Pakenham, 1941; Pakenham, 1984; Kingdon, 1997; Burgess and Clarke, 

2000) 

Family/Species 

Common name 

Status 

Mammals 

Colobus badius kirkii Zanzibar red colobus 

Endemic to Unguja, introduced to 

Pemba 

Otolemur garnettii Garnetts Galago East African coastal forests endemic 

Galagoides zanzibaricus Zanzibar Galago East African coastal forests endemic 

Cercopithecus aethiops Vervet monkey Endemic sub species to Pemba 

Pteropus voetzkowi Pemba Flying Fox Endemic to Pemba 

Dendrohyrax validus 

neumanni 

East African Tree Hyrax Endemic to Pemba and Unguja 

Cephalophus monticola 

pembae Blue Duiker Endemic to Pemba 

Birds 

Falco dickinsoni Dickinson's Kestrel Endemic to Pemba 

Nectarinia pembae Pemba Sunbird Endemic to Pemba 

Zosterops vaughani Pemba White-eye Endemic to Pemba 

Treron pembaensis Pemba green pigeon Endemic to Pemba 

Zostrerops vaughanii Pemba white eye Endemic to Pemba 

Terpsiphone viridis ungujaensis African Paradise Flycatcher Endemic to Pemba and Unguja 

Accipiter tadiro pembaensis Pemba African Goshawk Endemic to Pemba 

Otus pembaensis Russet Scops owl Endemic to Pemba 

Reptiles 

Phelsuma abbotti Pemba Day Gecko Endemic to Pemba 

Pemba Island Writhing 

Lygosoma pembanum Skink 

Endemic to Pemba 

57

Mabuya albotaeniata Pemba Island Skink Endemic to Pemba 

Leptotyphlops pembae Pemba Worm Snake Endemic to Pemba 

Lycophidion pembanum Pemba Wolf Snake Endemic to Pemba 

Natriciteres pembana Pemba Marsh Snake Endemic to Pemba 

Phrynobatrachus sp. 

"pakenhami"? 


Amphibians 

Phrynobatrachus sp. 

"pakenhami"? 


Lepidoptera (Butterflies) 

Acraea egina pembanus 

Endemic to Pemba and Zanzibar 


Common name 

Status 

Pseudacraea boisduvali 

pemba 


Euphaedra neophron rydoni 


Bebearia orientis insularis 


New records of fauna species 

During the survey 15 new records for mammals, birds, amphibians and Lepidoptera 

were observed (Table 4.16). Very little research work has been done in Ngezi and in 

Pemba as a whole. It is anticipated that with more research more species will be 

observed and most possibly endemic to Pemba. For example the lack of rain during 

the last survey resulted in poor catch of amphibians. It was likely that with good rain 

many more species would have been obtained. A further survey of the fauna of Ngezi 

and Pemba as a whole is highly recommended in order to have a comprehensive 

inventory of fauna species of Pemba. 

Table 4.16: New record of fauna of Pemba 


Common name 

Status 

Mammals 

Aonyx capensis Cape Clawless Otter New record to Pemba 

Birds 

Cinnyricinclus leucogaster 

Violet-backed 

Starling 

New record to Pemba 

Reptiles 

Panaspis sp. 


Amphibians 

Schoutedenella xenodactyloides 


Hyperolius sp. 


Lepidoptera (Butterflies and Moths) 

Acraea encedon Linnaeus 

Acraea pseudolycia Butler 

Spialia diomus Hopffer 

Zizeeria knysna Trimen 


Common name 





Status 

58

Byblia anvatara acheloia 

Boisduval 

Charaxes varanes vologeses 

Mabille 

Junonia oenone oenone Linnaeus 

Eurema hapale Mabille 

Bicyclus anynana anynana Butler 

Bicyclus campinus Aurivillius 

Ypthima rhodesiana Carcasson 








4.2.10 Threatened and endangered animal species 

A number of animal species found in the survey area and surroundings are threatened. 

These include 8 mammals and 3 reptiles (see Table 4.17). At least one species, the 

Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) is critically endangered. A number of 

factors have led to this situation, mainly explotation, hunting, and habitat loss and 

fragmentation. The impact of various factors is known to vary between species. 

Table 4.17: Threatened and endangered animal species listed in IUCN redlist, and 

species listed in CITES Appendices found in Ngezi – Vumawimbi forest reserves and 

surrounding areas, Pemba (CR = critically endangered, EN = endangered, VU = 

vulnerable, LR = lower risk, DD = data deficient) 

Animal group Common name Scienfific name 

Conservation status 

IUCN Redlist 

Rhinolophidae (bats) Decken's Horseshoe 

Rhinolophus deckeni DD 

Bat 

Pteropodidae Pemba flying fox Pteropus voetzkowi ? 

Galagonidae 

Greater galago Otolemur garnettii LR, nt 

(bushbabys) 

Cercopithecidae Pemba green Cercopithecus aethiops DD II 

(monkeys) 

monkey 

Zanzibar Red Piliocolobus kirkii EN, B1a II 

Colobus 

Viverridae (mongooses Marsh mongoose Atilax paludinosus EN, B1 + 2c 

and civets) 

Procaviidae (hyraxes) East African Tree Dendrohyrax validus VU. B1 + 2c 

hyrax 

neumanni 

Bovidae Blue Duiker Cephalophus monticola II 

Chelonidae (turtles) Green Turtle Chelonia mydas EN, A1 abd I 

Hawksbill Turtle Eretmochelys imbricata CR, A1, abd, I 

2bcd 

Chamaeleonidae 

(chameleons) 

Flap-necked 

Chameleon 

Chamaeleo dilepis 

II 

CITES 

Appendices 

4.2.11 Introduced species of animals 

Islands like Zanzibar are often affected by introduction of alien species by various 

dispersal agents including humans (Table 4.18). In the past 500 years at least five 

mammals and one lizard have been introduced to Zanzibar and Pemba (Moreau and 

Pakenham 1941). Most of these species are still surviving in the islands. The impact 

of the introduced animals to indigenous species is unknown. The Javan civet, 

however, is reported to coexist with the indigenous African civet. The presence of 

most other species on the islands, however, is attributed to the natural dispersal agents 

such as air, water and land crossing before the geological separation of islands from 

the mainland during the ice-age. Also subsequent geologic processes after the ice-age 

59

created land bridges or shallow continetal shelf which allowed animals to go through 

(Moreau and Pakenham 1941). 

During the survey and when conducting foot transects it was observed that there were 

many feral dogs in the forest. Some appeared to be out of control. The presence of 

feral dogs in the forest affects the pristine nature of the forest and needs to be 

controlled. There is also a potential danger of spread of rabies due to the presence of 

dogs and many bats that act as vectors of rabies. 

Table 4.18: Some animal species introduced to Pemba and Zanzibar 

Common name Scientific name Area introduced Agency Introduction 

date 

Mammals 

Current 

status 

Wild boar/Black pig Sus scrofa Pemba and Zanzibar Portuguese 16 th century Present 

Javan civet Viverricula indica Pemba and Zanzibar Indian 

community 

Unknown Present 

Pemba Stowaway Unknown Present 

Common 

House Mouse Mus musculus 

Black Rat Rattus rattus Pemba and Zanzibar Stowaway Unknown Present 

Zanzibar red Piliocolobus Introduced to Pemba from SMZ 1979 (seven Present 

Zanzibar 

individuals) 

colobus kirkii 

4.2.12 Fish 

Five fish families of fresh or brackish water recoded at the study area. In the study 

area there is no permanent river but there are several ponds and swamps. Nine villages 

surrounding Ngezi are Msuka, Kijijini, Tondooni, Mkia wa Ng’ombe, Jiwe moja, 

Makangale, Bandari kuu, Kipangani, and Gombani. Most of the information on fish 

and fisheries in Pemba waters is in many cases similar to what was reported in Jozani 

National Park (Nahonyo et al. 2002). 

4.2.12.1 Fisheries resources 

Fisheries resources found on Pemba waters include fish, prawns, sea cucumbers, 

seaweeds and lobsters. These are mainly exported but finfishes are used for local 

consumption. All these resources are also available at villages around the Ngezi 

forest. Other marine resources like prawns, lobsters, and seashells have declined in 

recent years. In the past decade these resources were collected in substantial amounts 

in the inter-tidal zones but nowadays one must do SCUBA diving in deep sea to 

collect them. Other resources like Sea-shells (bivalve, mollusks and cockles) are used 

domestically since their production is low (FAO/Department of Environment 

Zanzibar, 1999). 

4.2.12.2 Fish species occurrence, endemism and diversity in Ngezi 

Ngezi forest is found northern part of Pemba Island. Pemba as part of Zanzibar in 

region No.51 FAO of the global fisheries sector. It has a number of species 

(Carcasson, 1977; Bianch, 1985), which are common and distributed throughout the 

region (FAO, 1984a). In Ngezi there are at least 57 fish families (Appendix 7a and 7b) 

and not less than 100 fish species (Appendix I and II). None of the families are 

endemic to Zanzibar. Most of the fishes obtained in this area are found elsewhere in 

the region according to FAO (1984a, 1984b, 1984c, 1984d; Bianch, 1985). 

4.2.12.3 Fish movement and migration 

60

Movement and migration is a common phenomenon for animals including fishes. 

Movements could be for feeding purposes, escaping predation, or escaping unsuitable 

conditions. 

The migrations like other characteristics of the species have some adaptive 

significance, ensuring favourable conditions for the existence and reproduction of the 

species. The cycles of migrations usually consist of: 

1. Spawning migration: movement of fishes from the feeding grounds to the 

spawning grounds 

2. Feeding migrations: movement away from the spawning grounds to the 

feeding grounds 

Most marine species are migrants. Migration between marine and estuarine 

ecosystems has ecological and commercial significance. In Ngezi fishermen report 

large numbers of fish migrating from deep-water areas into the shallow seagrass beds 

when the sea is rough and turbulent. These fish return to deep water when the sea is 

calm. 

Feeding migration 

Feeding migration is normally accompanied by the changes of the tidal regime at 

Ngezi. When water recedes to a low tide the juvenile and mature fishes tend to 

migrate to deeper waters. When tide in the bay reaches high water mark the fishes 

especially the detritivorous, omnivorous and herbivorores also migrate to the feeding 

grounds in shallow waters. 

In general carnivorous species constitute 50-70 % of the fish. Godman and Talbot 

(1976) reported that many of the carnivorous fish appear not to be highly specialized 

to a given food type but instead are opportunistic feeders, taking whatever is available 

to them. 

Herbivores and coral grazers make up the next largest groups of fishes and account 

for 15% of the species. Of these, Scaridae and Acanthuridae are most important. The 

remaining fishes are considered to be omnivores and include all families of fishes on 

the reef (i.e. Pomacentridae, Chaetodontidae, Pomacanthidae, Monacanthidae, 

Ostraciidae, Tetraodontidae). A few groups, mainly small schooling fishes in the 

families Pomacentridae, Clupeidae and Atherinidae, are zooplankton feeders. 

4.2.12.4 Fish habitats and spawning areas 

Fishes and mangroves 

Mangroves are one of the most productive ecosystems. They harbour a diversity of 

fish species due to the presence of organic matter (dissolved or particulate), detritus 

from plant litter and their associated organisms (bacteria, fungi, micro, macro and 

meio fauna). Between 80% and 90% of the inshore landing in East Africa comes from 

artisanal fishers who operate within 22 km limits to territorial waters (Anon, 1979). 

The presence of mangroves in Ngezi makes the area a potentially important habitat for 

fish and fishing. 

Large predators enter the mangroves with incoming tide (Sasekumar et al., 1984; 

Blaber et al, 1985). The lack of important piscivorous fish reported in some 

mangroves (Blaber 1980; Bell et al., 1984) seems to relate to high turbidity and very 

low depth where predators become less effective. Most of the fish species breeding in 

mangrove areas completes all their lifecycle there (Thallot, 1992). This situation is 

61

also expected to occur in shallow water in Ngezi area. The lack of many potential 

predators in the area provides a suitable environment for the juvenile fish grow to 

maturity. 

The first order consumers have been noted to determine estuarine fish communities 

(Blaber 1980). First order consumers including Gerreidae, Atherinidae, Clupeidae, 

Teraponidae, Acropomatidae, Apogonidae and Gobiidae (Blaber 1980) were found to 

dominate in Gazi fishing community (Kimani et al, 1996). Short term feeding 

migration of reef fishes into the creek may represent a connectivity and energy 

transfer between the two ecosystems. 

Fishes and seagrass 

Fishes are abundant in seagrass beds and many of them feed within the bed removing 

considerable biomass. Ogden (1980) reported that herbivore fishes are not resident in 

seagrass beds, but migrate during the night from surrounding reefs. Larger fish e.g. 

rays and sharks are important in structuring seagrass communities through 

carnivorous species preying on fish, which graze on seagrasses so reducing grazing 

pressure. Seagrasses provide an important nursery habitat for the juveniles of many 

fishes such as Tarwhine (Rhabdosargus sarba), Eastern Blue Grouper (Achoerodus 

viridis) and Yellow-finned Leatherjacket (Meuschenia trachylepis). The young fish 

feed on small animals living among seagrass leaves and use the seagrasses to hide 

from larger predators. Most of these fish will leave the seagrass meadows and migrate 

to other habitats, such as kelp beds and rocky reefs, as they get older. 

For many other fishes such as Pipefishes, White's Seahorse (Hippocampus whitei), 

Southern Pygmy Leatherjacket (Brachaluteres jacksonianus), Leaf Fish (Ablabys 

taenionotus) and Blue-spot Goby (Pseudogobius sp.) seagrasses provide lifelong 

habitat. Sea grass meadows are ecologically important habitats in marine 

environments as they are: 

• places of great attraction of larger marine organisms, especially fishes in 

search of good feeding areas 

• good nursery grounds for juvenile stages of commercially important 

shrimps, crabs, lobsters and fishes 

• important feeding sites for adult fishes and birds. 

In Ngezi fishermen reported that mangroves and seagrass meadows were important 

fish habitat and spawning areas. Mangroves were particularly important for prawn 

breeding; it was reported that most prawns breed in the mangroves. 

4.2.12.5 Threatened species of fish (IUCN threat categories) 

There are several factors, which may lead to fish species to become threatened. The 

causative agents of the threat are usually humans and human activities. It is 

commonly known that some species of sharks, swordfish, Billfishes are threatened 

(Table 4.19). Many of these fish occur in deep water sea or are the local people do not 

easily see benthic species. These fish are also not usually caught by artisanal 

fishermen hence are not locally reported, although distribution maps show that they 

occur on Zanzibar (FAO, 1984a, 1984b, 1984c, 1984d; Smith and Heemstra, 1991). 

62

Table 4.19: Threatened fish species (IUCN) reported as occurring in Pemba and 

Zanzibar (Source: FAO, 1984a, 1984b, 1984c, 1984d; Smith and Heemstra, 1991, 

http://www.redlist.org/info/links.html) 

FAMILY SPECIES 

IUCN 

ENGLISH NAME STATUS 

SERRANIDAE Epinephelus tukula Potato grouper LR 

LABRIDAE Cheilinus undulatus Hampered wrasse LR 

CARCHARHINID Carcharhinus plumbeus Sandbar shark LR 

AE 

CARCHARHINID Carcharhinus Taurus Grey nurse shark EN 

AE 

CARCHARHINID Carcharhinus 

Silky shark 

LR 

AE 

falciformis 

CARCHARHINID Galeocerdo cuvier Tiger shark LR 

AE 

SERRANIDAE Cromileptes altivelis Barramund grouper LR 

SERRANIDAE Epinephelus 

fuscoguttatus 

Flowery grouper 

LR 

SERRANIDAE Epinephelus 

Malabar grouper LR 

malabaricus 

SERRANIDAE Epinephelus tauvina Greasy grouper LR 

SCOMBRIDAE Thunnus maccoyii Southern bluefin tuna LR 

SYPHYRNIDAE 

Scalloped hammerhead LR 

Sphyrna lewini 

SYPHYRNIDAE Sphyrna mokarran Great hammerhead LR 

SQUALIDAE Centrophorus uyato Southern dogfish VU 

LAMNIDAE Isurus oxyrinchus Short fin mako LR 

Glyphis sp. Bizan river shark CR 

PRISTIDAE Pristis microdon Larger tooth saw fish CR 

RHINOBATIDAE Rhynchobatus djiddensis White spotted wedge fish LR 

DASYATIDAE Taeniura lymma Ribbon tail stingray LR 

MOBULIDAE Manta birostris Giant Atlantic manta LR 

MYLIOBATIDAE Aetobatus narinari Spotted eagle ray LR 

Key: LR = Lower risk, VU = Vulnerable, EN = Endangered, CR = Critically 

endangered 

4.2.12.6 Fishing and fish production 

(a) Number of Fishers 

A survey conducted by Commission for Natural Resources found that there were 

23,734 fishers on Zanzibar, of which 11,769 were based on Pemba Island and 11,965 

were in Unguja Island. (FAO/Department of Environment Zanzibar, 1999) 

(b) Fishing vessels 

Fishing vessels employed include dugout canoes, outrigger canoes; planked motorized 

boats and planked sailing boat. A survey conducted by the Commission for Natural 

Resources showed that there were 5,149 fishing vessels on Zanzibar, on Unguja 2,933 

and 2,216 on Pemba (FAO/Department of Environment Zanzibar 1999). During the 

63

survey most of catch records shows that the fishing vessels dugout canoe, mashua and 

sailing were mostly used at 56.17%, 26.96% and 16.85% respectively. 

(c) Fish production 

Data on fish production from Pemba and Zanzibar suggests that fish production has 

been declining progressively in the last two decades. There are several factors, which 

have contributed to that decline: 

(i) Increase of fishing pressure (caused by increased fishing effort) 

(ii) Decrease of small pelagics, believed to be the main source of food to 

bigger fish 

(iii) Habitat degradation due to use of destructive fishing gears and techniques. 

It has been reported at Ngezi most fishers in the area fishing commercial fish species. 

These include Cowries, Sea cucumber, Crabs, Octopus, Squids, Lobsters and 

Shrimps. The fishers depend both external and internal markets. External markets are 

in Mombasa where they are sold as semi processed or fresh fish. Internal market is 

mainly tourists’ hotel Manta Reef and local people. According to fisheries catch 

stastics the record were as follows Msuka 60,922 Kg, Kijijini 18,869 kg, Tondooni 

14,535 kg, Mkia Ng’ombe 11,120 kg, Jiwe moja 625 kg, Makangale 4,420 Kg, and 

Bandari Kuu 895 Kg. (Source: Ngezi survey, January 2005). 

(d) Fishing gears 

Fishing gears in Unguja and Pemba reported by the fishermen and Commission for 

Natural Resources (CNR-Fisheries, 1997) are gillnets, shark nets, small scale purse 

seines, a variety of fishing lines (troll-lines, hand lines, long lines) fish traps, fishing 

weirs, spear guns and beach seines. However, some of the fishing gears such as spear 

guns and beach seines are illegally used because they are banned in Zanzibar due to 

their destructive nature. Fishing traps, weirs and spear guns are made locally. Fishing 

lines, mostly nylon monofilaments are imported and available in sufficient quantities 

in various shops. There is adequate availability of fishing gears and equipment but 

their prices are high compared to the purchasing power of most artisanal fishers 

(FAO/Department of Environment Zanzibar, 1999). During the survey most catch 

records obtained from hand line, beach seine and spears at 31.11%, 22.22% and 

17.77% rate respectively. Other fishing gears contribute about 28.9 %. 

(e) Habitat type 

Most fishes caught at Ngezi area are mainly from thirteen habitat types. Namely as 

Caves, Coastal, Coral reefs, Deep coral reefs, Demersal, Epi-pelagic, Inshore, Muddy, 

Pelagic, Seagrass, Shallow reefs, Reefs and Estuary. Demersal species contribute 

large amount followed by pelagic and Epi-pelagic at 51.6%, 23.6% and 10.1% 

respectively. Other remaining habitat types contribute 14.7%. 

(f) Fishing grounds 

The fishing ground is the area where fish are caught by using various fishing gears. In 

the Ngezi fishing grounds are described in various forms, these are Coastal, Shallow 

waters, and Sand bottom, Coral reefs, Deep sea and Mangroves. In general most fish 

catch are obtained from four main fishing grounds, these are Coastal and Deep seas 

64

oth contributes 26.67 % and Shallow waters and coral reefs contributes 25.6% and 

18.9 % respectively. Other remaining fishing grounds in totality contribute 28.83%. 

4.2.12.7 Threats to fisheries resources 

Marine biodiversity threats are divided into two aspects: proximate threats and root 

causes. 

Proximate threats 

The main human activities that damage marine organisms and ecosystems include: 

over exploitation, physical alterations and habitat loss, pollution, introduction of alien 

species and global climate changes. 

Root causes 

The main causes of biodiversity loss lie in demographic pressure and unsuitable use of 

natural resources; economic policies that fail to value the environment and its 

resources, insufficient knowledge and its poor application, and weakness in legal and 

institutional systems (Dugan, 1990; WRI/IUCN/UNEP, 1992). 

4.2.12.8 Fisheries conservation 

Management of fisheries in Zanzibar, as in other developing countries has been 

problematic. The reason for such problems is due to the fact that management 

objectives are not defined: 

• The open-access nature of the fisheries, the shortage of alternative 

employment opportunities to the fishers and the poor economy could 

constrain the effort tailored to manage fisheries 

• Fisheries management plans in general do not exist; instead short time 

approaches are used in attempts to manage fisheries resources. 

4.2.3 Invertebrates (Lepidopterans and Odonata) 

Collection revealed a rich invertebrate fauna (477 individuals) as follows: A total of 

134 Butterflies were collected. These belonged to 35 species from eight families. 

Light trap and sweeping produced 195 moths belonging to 13 families. Lastly, 146 

Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) representing nine species from three families 

were also collected. Several Odonata were not identified to species level. 

A checklist of the butterflies, moths and Odonata collected during this survey is given 

below. The number of individuals of the three groups from each transect is presented 

in Appendix 8a, 8b and 8c. Transect 3 had a significantly low abundance of butterflies 

and moths compared to the others. The highest abundance of butterflies and moths 

was obtained from transect 1 and 6. 

The number of singletons among butterflies was 14 species (41.18%), indicating that 

the survey was far from being exhaustive. Some species must have been missed 

during the survey. This low coverage reflects the short time spent in sampling. The 

large number of moths collected during this survey is a result of the effective light 

trap that was used. 

First records 

65

A number of butterflies (11 species in total) collected from Ngezi Forest Reserve are 

recorded for the first time from Pemba Island. These are indicated by an asterisk (*) in 

the checklist. 

Endemic species 

Four of the collected species are endemic. Acraea egina pembanus is on record as 

being endemic to Pemba Island (Kielland, 1990). However we have recorded this 

species from Zanzibar Island (Jozani Forest), therefore this species should be treated 

as endemic to Pemba and Zanzibar Islands. Three other species, Pseudacraea 

boisduvali pemba, Euphaedra neophron rydoni and Bebearia orientis insularis are 

endemic to Pemba (Kielland, 1990). The first has been recorded from Ngezi forest 

and the last is frequently seen in garden with palm trees nearby (Kielland, 1990). 

Forest-dependent species 

Twelve of the recorded species are forest-dependent. They are found only in forest 

habitats (sometimes in thick woodland also). Among these are Bicyclus campinus, 

which feeds on grass species (Gramineae), Amauris niavius dominicus whose larval 

food plant is Gymnema sylivestre (Asclepiadaceae), and Euphaedra neophron rydoni 

whose food plant has not been recorded. Lachnoptera iole ayresi has been recorded 

on Rawsonia usambarensis (Flacourtiaceae) and Vismia orientis (Guttifera). Larvae of 

Pseudacraea lucretia feed on several species of family Sapotaceae e.g. 

Chrysophyllum viridifolium. 

Other invertebrates 

Apart from the systematic sampling which included Orders Lepidoptera and Odonata, 

other invertebrates were also observed, and some collected on an ad hoc basis. This 

opportunistic sampling revealed a rich invertebrate fauna, which included gastropods, 

dung beetles, mosquitoes, bees and millipedes, and many dung beeteles were 

everyday found trapped in bucket pitfalls. Notable among these are the mangrove 

whelk Terebralia palustris (Potamididae), which was abundant in mangrove swamps 

near, transect 6. A pond in transect 2 and wetland area near transect 6 harboured, 

among others, Bulinus nasutus (Planorbidae). Live individuals and shells of the land 

snail Achatina sp. (Achatinidae) were scattered in Ngezi Forest and surrounding areas. 

In addition to the above two honeybee colonies were observed at transect 1 and 5 in 

Odyndea zimmermanii trees. This tree species is listed in the IUCN Red Data Book as 

globally rare. Other invertebrates observed in Ngezi forest and surrounding area 

included adult beetles (Scarabaeidae), millipedes (Chilopoda), and mosquitoes 

(Culicidae) Culex and Aedes species. 

Specific potential threats to invertebrates 

Invertebrates generally have a high reproductive potential, and they can survive as 

long as their habitats are preserved. The major threat to the biodiversity of this area, 

therefore come from habitat destruction. 

Butterflies and moths are herbivores as larvae, and they are totally dependent on 

specific plant species for their survival. Habitat loss, forest fragmentation and other 

human activities that lead to loss of plant biodiversity are, therefore, the greatest threat 

to these insects. 

66

The Odonata larvae are aquatic predators. These and other aquatic organisms are very 

sensitive to changes in the physical conditions and chemical composition of the water 

in which they live. Chemical pollution, agricultural chemicals and fertilizers, which 

end up in the water bodies, and silting from soil erosion, are the main threats to these 

organisms. 

Some butterflies are prized by collectors due to their beauty. In some countries the 

law protects species of Butterflies such as lycaenids. Other prized species include 

large colourful species such as Charaxes spp. and Papilio spp. Butterfly collecting for 

local and export markets is potentially a threat to some species. There is need to find 

out whether or not this activity is actually taking place in Pemba. 

Invertebrates conservation values 

Insects make up a very large proportion of the biodiversity of any terrestrial and freshwater 

habitat. They are a crucial in all food chains in their habitats, as food to a wide 

range of animals, and as predators. In addition, they pollinate flowering plants and, 

through herbivory, they control the growth and spread of plant species. 

Aquatic insects are important in maintaining aquatic ecosystems, and as indication of 

the health or otherwise of these habitats. 

Insects also have an aesthetic value, and some species are highly prized by collectors. 

Specific recommendations on invertebrates conservation 

The conservation of the invertebrates of Ngezi Forest must be based on the 

conservation of their habitats, since even a slight change in the forest or fresh-water 

bodies can result into a major decline in the dependent invertebrate fauna. Human 

population pressure and the accompanying increase in demand for forest products and 

land for agriculture should be managed in order to have a balance between 

exploitation of the resources and the conservation of the natural environment. In the 

absence of human interference most invertebrates can sustain their population since 

they have a high reproductive potential. It is therefore imperative that the habitats of 

the area (forest, freshwater bodies, salt-water marshes, mangrove swamps and others) 

should be conserved. 

4.4 Socio-economic Survey 

4.4.1 Demographic characteristics 

A total of 200 respondents were interviewed through interview-administered 

questionnaires; among them 101 (50.5%) were males and 99 (49.5%) were females. 

Age Structure 

The respondents reported themselves to have ages ranged from 18 to 80 years. Many 

were in the age class of 18-30 (36%) and 31-42 (36%) years, while 22% were in the 

age class 43-54 and very few (3% and 4%) were in the age classes 55-66 and 67-80 

years respectively. Although the number of males and females in the age classes were 

statistically similar, the oldest age class was dominated by females (Figure 4.6). 

67

n = 200 

% of 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

0 

18-30 31-42 43-54 55-66 67-80 

Age Classes 

Male 

Female 

Figure 4.6: The declared age classes of the 200 respondents from the study villages 

combined 

Length of residence 

Of the interviewees, 151 (76%) were found to be resident in the area while 49 (24%) 

were immigrants. Mji mwema village appeared to have the highest number of 

immigrants (60%) compared to other villages (Figure 4.7) probably because it is one 

of the newly formed villages in the area. 

Socio economic characteristics of the people in the studied villages 

Local community in the villages around Ngezi depend mainly on Agriculture, some 

livestock keeping, small-scale business and fishing for their livelihood. Farming was 

reported to be the highest (80%) income source, while fishing appeared to be 

important to some respondents (9.5%). At least 8.5% of the respondents said they 

were either practicing some small business or were carpenters. Very few respondents 

(2%) said were the government employees, or had some kind of jobs where they got 

paid salaries. Of the interviewed respondents, those from Msuka Gombani appeared to 

have the highest number (92%) of farmers while those from Mkia wa Ng’ombe had 

the highest (37%) number of fishermen. Only few (10%) respondents from 

Makangale reported to have some sort of employment from the government, either 

working with the forestry department or as teachers indicating poor economy of the 

community around Ngezi forest (Figure 4.8). 

4.4.2 Crops grown 

Cassava, sweet potatoes, millet and bananas were some of the crops reported by the 

respondents in the area. A majority (69%) of the respondents said that they grew these 

crops mainly as source of food, and only occasionally they sold cassava for some 

cash. 

68

n = 200 

% of respondents 

100 

90 

80 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

Resident 

Immigrant 

0 

Kiuyu Kipangani 

Kiuyu kwa Manda 

Bandari kuu 

Makangale 

Msuka Gombani 

Mji mwema 

Kijijini 

Jiwe moja 

Tondooni 


Village 

Figure 4.7: Reported origins of the respondents in the studied villages 

4.4.3 Livestock keeping 

Animals possessed by people in the study area include chicken, cattle, goats, dogs, 

cats, ducks and guinea fowls. Majority of people keep cattle (58.9%) and goats 

(30.5%). Dogs are possessed by quite a good number of people (12.8%), while only 

few (1%) people own guinea fowls. All cattle owners (100%) said they tied their 

animals in the field and left, while chicken were left to find food themselves. The 

respondents said that livestock was mainly source of food (chicken, ducks and guinea 

fowl) and for small business (mainly cattle) when one needed some money. 

4.4.4 Resource utilization 

Many respondents regarded Ngezi forest as an important area in terms of resource 

acquisition. Firewood and timber (Figure 4.9) appeared the most important resources 

that were obtained from this forest although the majority complained about the 

difficult in obtaining them after the start of total protection programme. Other 

resources like building materials, materials for handcrafts and food (especially wild 

meat, fish and wild fruits) materials appeared to be obtained from the area. Many 

respondents did not feel free in mentioning these resources in fear of being caught as 

69

poachers. They said, some people were allowed to enter the forest through bribing the 

guards, indicating some conflicts 

n = 200 

% of respondents 

100 

90 

80 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

Farming 

Small business 

Carpentry 

Fishing 

20 

10 

0 

Kiuyu Kipangani 

Kiuyu kwa Manda 

Bandari kuu 

Makangale 

Msuka Gombani 

Mji mwema 

Villages 

Kijijini 

Jiwe moja 

Tondooni 


Figure 4.8: Reported activities/occupation of the respondents in the studied villages 

800 

Frequency of respondents 

700 

600 

500 

400 

300 

200 

100 

0 

Timber 

Food 

Building materials/poles 

Fuelwood 

Medicine 

Handcrafts 

Construction of fishing vessels 

Plant uses 

70

Figure 4.9: Declared uses of the forest products by the respondents from the studied 

villages 

between the villagers and foresters. They said they wanted to be given at least some 

use rights for their basic needs. Interestingly is that, some respondents reported that, 

they got promised to be given some alternative areas where they would be obtaining 

their basic needs, but this had never been kept since then. 

Ngezi forest was also regarded as an important area for cultural activities. Many 

(86%) respondents reported some important areas where traditional 

prayers/worshiping practices were conducted. The most (75%) common area was 

called “Kwa Shariff”. Only few respondents (4%) did not know if there were such 

areas in this forest, majority of whom were immigrants. Also, the area was reported to 

be useful in terms of plant and animal produce (Appendix 1c and 9c). 

As seen above, Ngezi forest is facing large pressure from the community around it. 

The main problem is that, majority of people living adjacent to this forest depend on it 

for many uses, which is not a new thing to all communities around forests all over the 

world (Pimbert and Pretty, 1995). All people around Ngezi appear to use firewood as 

source of energy for cooking, and further, depend on it for other important day to day 

needs (Figure 4.9). Also the study by Khatibu and Suleiman, (1993) indicated this 

severe use of the forest resources especially firewood. They suggested that if Ngezi 

forest is really to be protected, and then collection of firewood and poles should be 

completely stopped or alternatively be allowed only in limited areas. The idea was 

good, but one has to consider the really effect to the surrounding community, 

especially under the fact that, the forest appears to be their main source of firewood 

and other basic needs for life. Robinson and Redford, (1994); Metcafe, 1995; Adams 

and Hulme, 2001 and Brown, (2002), argue that, local communities can contribute to 

the conservation of natural systems only if their needs are met. They should be given 

user rights of these resources; but in most countries they are seldom recognised. 

Studies suggest that, ignoring the dependence of local people on the park resources 

for their subsistence needs and emphasizing law enforcement tend to aggravate the 

conflict between them and PAs managers (Sharma, 1990). This was also observed in 

the interviews undertaken in the study area. The respondents, especially those very 

close to the forest appeared unhappy with the management of this forest. They 

showed their need to be given some user rights (Table 4.19) of the forest as it was in 

the past. 

Some respondents in Manda village said that there are people around the forest who 

sometimes went to the area just for the purpose of destroying. One in Manda said, that 

despite the fact that she never went to destroy the forest, she would never report any 

illegal incidence because their village despite it being a way to the forest, when it 

came to employment, none of the village members was taken. A similar situation is 

said to be common in many developing countries, where around protected areas 

people who feel excluded intentionally destroy natural resources (Pimbert and Pretty, 

1995). In India, resentment by local people to national parks legislation led to acts of 

sabotage and civil disobedience. Villagers set fire to large areas of the protected areas 

such as the Kunha National Park of Madhya Pradesh (Gadgil and Guha, 1992). 

71

4.4.5 Threats to biodiversity 

Some plants (Mvule, Ukindu, Mkandaa, and Mshubiri mwitu) and animals (Wildpigs, 

chesi and hyraxes) were reported as either completely disappeared or remained in 

small numbers. Reasons behind this were said to be over exploitation for plants and 

illegal hunting for animals. Respondents declared that, before the present programme 

of complete protection started, people were free to enter the forest hence did a lot of 

destruction. Other reported reasons were such as weather change, sabotage while 

others did not know any of the causes although declared the disappearance of some 

plants and animals. 

Wild pigs were reported as completely disappeared animals in Ngezi forest. The 

respondents said that Wamakonde were the main poachers of these species, where 

they used them as a source of food. Other respondents (2%) further reported that, wild 

pigs were killed because of their destructive nature. Plants reported as completely 

disappeared were mainly used for fuel wood (54%) and timber production (20%). 

Some respondents felt disadvantaged as a result of total protection of Ngezi forest. 

They said they lost their freedom to use the forest produce, and even in passing in the 

forest. Others indicated their concerns on the loss of access to building poles and 

firewood (Table 4.20). However, many respondents (33%) appeared happy with the 

present protection system. 

Table 4.20: The reported disadvantages experienced after the initiation of total 

protection programme at Ngezi forest 

Disadvantage Frequency Percentage (%) 

None 66 33 

Loss of freedom to use the forest for everyday needs 39 19 

Lack of wild meat 5 2 

Lost access to building materials and firewood 92 46 

Total 202 100 

Source: Field data, (January 2005) 

Following the high demand of the forest products by the surrounding community, the 

study predicted that if measures are not taken, then Ngezi forest would be in serious 

danger in the near future. Studies by Khatibu and Suleiman, (1993); Smith and Scherr, 

(2002); Ngece, (2003) also indicated the high demand of firewood and other forest 

products by the community around forests. The study by Khatibu and Suleiman, 

(1993) also suggested some alternative provisions to the community such as use of 

efficient stoves, establishment of a programme on integrated land-use around the area, 

introduction of tree planting for different purposes etc. All these ideas appear useful, 

but the main problem for their implementation is the size of the land available in 

relation with the population growth rate of the area. Many respondents complained 

that they had small land, and the little they had was existed. What makes things worse 

is the promise made by the Ministry on providing the locals with alternative land for 

their basic needs. Some respondents reported this and they indicated to be unhappy 

with the situation hence indicating some conflicts between the two groups. 

4.4.6 Future management of Ngezi Forest Reserve 

When it came to what respondents had as suggestions for harmonious conservation of 

the area, many (40%) said they wanted to have an access to small uses of forest 

72

produce, especially firewood and building materials (Table 4.21). However, quite a 

good number of respondents (22%) said that the forest should continue to be protected 

for present and future generations. It appeared that, some people were illegally 

allowed to enter the forest through bribing the guards, which can be detrimental to the 

forest if care will not be taken. All these and others were offered as comments for 

future to serve the forest (Table 4.21). 

Table 4.21: The declared suggestions/comments offered by the respondents regarding 

their views for future management of Ngezi forest 

Comment Frequency Percentage (%) 

They should continue protecting the forest 56 22 

They should consider us for small uses such as firewood and 

102 40 

building materials 

There should be an equal utilisation of forest products 5 2 

Considerations for employment of members from the village 

27 11 

around Ngezi 

Seasonal hunting of small mammals should be allowed sometimes 1 0 

in the year 

Provision of social services from the management 3 1 

No comments 23 9 

The government should keep the promise of providing alternative to 14 5 

forest use 

Benefit sharing to all villages around Ngezi forest 13 5 

Utilization to be allowed to trees old enough, or dropped dry tree 4 2 

trunks 

Provision of Conservation education to the community 9 3 

Total 257 100 

Having seen the comments/suggestions from the respondents, it appears that the 

community around Ngezi forest is desperate in getting their user right of the forest. 

Many said they wanted to be allowed to use the forest especially for their basic needs. 

In a way, this appeared reasonable, although one has to work it out before the rule is 

out. Previous studies around Ngezi have suggested that the area should be changed to 

a higher status in conservation (Pirinen, 1995, Abdullah et al. 1996). Pirinen, (1995) 

further indicated that, the management of Ngezi forest natural resources also means 

that local communities should be fully involved in and benefit from the management 

of natural forests and conservation areas. Pirinen further suggested the improvement 

of traditional relationship between villagers and foresters. These suggestions appear 

relevant for the area, but more effort is needed to successfully meet the target of 

conserving the area. 

The idea of changing the area to National Park appears useful, but one has to consider 

other drawbacks to this step. Since the land they possess is small compared to 

population annual growth rate obtained (5.4%) (URT, 2002), a more user-friendly 

technique could be found to avoid most of the side effects. Since the community 

around indicated their desire to use some important resources, then one need to find 

something worthwhile. 

73

From the declared information it appears that collaborative 1 (Technical Expert Group 

of Protected Areas, 2003; Berkes, 2004) forest management would be the best 

approach to manage Ngezi forest. Studies indicate that effective forest conservation 

can only be achieved through considering communities as contributors to the 

management systems and the realization of their tenure rights (Pimbert and Pretty 

1995; Wily, 1995; Mayers, 2001; Mayers and Vermeulen, 2002; Smith and Scherr, 

2002; Ngece, 2003). Ngece, (2003) argues that, since communities around forest areas 

are protecting water supplies and catchments for hydropower plants, then certainly 

they should co-manage and benefit from the sale of these products. It should however 

be remembered that effective management requires procedures to enforce the agreed 

regulations (Hannah, 1992); and that only in a few institutions indigenous people 

actively secure their areas without an outside assistance (Colchester, 1997). Further, 

to sustainably manage forest resources, issues related to governance, decentralisation, 

and democratisation must be taken into account 

(http://www.icimod.org/focus/cpr/forth2.htm). 

4.4.7 Socio economic recommendations 

Local involvement 

There is an urgent need for improved communication between the surrounding 

communities and the institutions responsible with the management of Ngezi forest to 

increase local awareness of the roles and activities of these institutions as partners for 

co-management of the area. Any future management plan of the area needs to be 

developed with the active participation of local communities. The collaborative 

management strategy would probably be the best approach in the future 

Legal framework and clear boundary definition 

There is a need to establish a legal framework under which communities can 

collaborate in conservation. The framework should give clear definition of boundaries 

of the area, rights and responsibilities to the community; therefore the responsible 

managers of Ngezi forest should revise the existing bylaws, legislation and policies. 

Equitable benefit sharing 

Structural inequalities existing within the community must be taken into account in 

building local level institutional mechanisms to ensure equitable distribution of forest 

products. At the moment there are some people benefiting from the forest through 

illegal use (by bribing the guards) or getting employment, while majority are not. In 

case there is an employment (especially non- collar jobs), every village should be 

equal chance of getting the job. 

Status improvement 

The area’s conservation and biodiversity value, importance for ecosystem 

maintenance, and its scenic beauty warrant it being given a higher protected area 

1 A partnership by which various stakeholders agree on sharing among themselves the management 

functions, rights and responsibilities for a territory or set of resources under protected status. The 

stakeholders primarily include the agency in charge and various associations of local residents and 

resource users, but can also involve non-governmental organisations local administrations, traditional 

authorities, research institutions, and business e.t.c. It is a situation in which two or more social actors 

negotiate, define and guarantee amongst themselves a fair sharing of management functions, 

entitlements and responsibilities for a given territory, area or a set of natural resources. (Technical 

Expert Group of Protected Areas, 2003; Berkes, 2004). 

74

status, which would be beneficial for both the environment and the surrounding 

community and which will further contribute to the national GDP. The fact that 

human population around the area is increasing at a high rate is an important factor to 

prove the area’s need for a more strict protection. 

Conservation education and capacity building 

A large percentage of the people living in and around Ngezi forest are poor, there is a 

need for effective grassroots community developments to help this community. This 

should run over the long term in order to impact on poverty alleviation and to realise 

sustainable development through income diversification and livelihood security. 

Most people living in and around Ngezi are illiterate; therefore appropriately targeted 

education could be an important component of future community development 

activities. Use of video shows/cinemas and study tours on the importance of forests 

and conservation organised to all villages around the area could be the best way in 

imparting knowledge to the community around Ngezi forest. 

Need for revision 

The suggestions put forward by Khatibu and Suleiman, (1993) and Harkonen and 

Seitz (1993) concerning total exclusion of the locals from any utilisation of Ngezi 

forest were reasonable, but one should consider this, over 75% of people around the 

Ngezi forest appears dependent on it for firewood, food or building materials. As seen 

the forest is diminishing as a result of illegal utilisation, encroachment or sabotage. 

Now, what is to be done? Keep excluding them for more destruction or devolving 

powers to them through a collaborative forest management? 

75

6.0 EVALUATION OF BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES AND THEIR 

CONSERVATION VALUE 

Although in terms of biodiversity Pemba and Zanzibar may not be as rich as the 

coastal forests (Frontier, 1995) and Eastern arc mountains on the mainland most of the 

species in Pemba are isolated from the mainland populations. Some are endemic or 

near endemic and others are races of their congeners on the mainland. Others are 

threatened or endangered. All these species need to be protected and some of them 

may need special attention and conservation programmes. 

Apart from maintaining biological diveristy, plant resources at species and community 

level are important in many respects ranging from life support systems, climate 

control, ecological processes and as wildlife habitats. 

A number of animal species are, like the plants, endemic or near endemic and there 

are also species which are threatened or endangered. Animal resources contribute to 

the biological diversity and also help to boost tourism. Most of the species are 

threatened by exploitation, habitat loss, fragmentation and pollution. Species 

designated endemic or near endemic and threatened need appropriate conservation 

programmes. 

Apart from their aesthetic value, the lepidopterans (Butterflies and Moths) and 

Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) are important as they form a large section of 

the natural ecosystem in terms of number of individuals and species richness. They 

are also important in maintaining the health of the ecosystem by controlling 

vegetation through their herbivory and pollination activities (lepidopterans), and by 

checking the population growth of other invertebrates through predation (Odonata). In 

addition to the above, the two groups are useful as indicators of the health of the 

ecosystem. They also form an important part of the food chain as a source of food to 

many species of other animals. 

7.0 POTENTIAL THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY 

Nahonyo et al., (2002) reported that in the past traditional systems of land and 

resource use caused some damage to habitat and biodiversity but probably 

regeneration occurred as long as population levels were low. Human activities placed 

relatively little pressure on the available land resources. Also certain cultural norms 

helped to ensure sustainable use of resources. Rapidly growing human populations 

and associated socio-economic and political issues, and probably climatic changes 

associated with greenhouse effects all together or individually have contributed 

towards ecological instability. In the Eastern Arc Mountains the immediate threats to 

biodiversity were identified as deforestation, forest fragmentation, forest degradation, 

over-exploitation of species, and the introduction of exotic species (Newmark, 2002). 

The situation in Ngezi - Vumawimbi is similar to that found in the Eastern Arc 

Mountains on the mainland. From the observations done in the field, interviews and 

documented literature the following were identified as threats to Ngezi - Vumawimbi 

forest reserves biological diversity: 

i. Human population pressure 

Humans are a major cause of biodiversity loss in coastal ecosystems (Martens, 1992). 

Pemba is experiencing a fast growing population (annual population growth rate r = 

0.03). Ngezi - Vumawimbi forests are important source of fuelwood, charcoal, 

76

uilding poles, medicines, food and fodder. Over-use of the resources is one major 

threat to the forest and loss of species. Increased population puts pressure on land for 

farming and crops involve land clearance and thus a loss of habitats. 

ii. Grazing impact 

A number of people surrounding Ngezi and Vumawimbi areas keep livestock 

especially cattle. Currently the number and nature of keeping livestock (see section 

4.4.3 above) does not pose as as a threat to the forest resources. However, if the 

number of livestock does increase in future then there will be a potential threat to the 

forest as livestock will definitely utilises the forest for grazing and browsing. 

iii. Effect of alien species 

This is one of the major threats to native biological diversity (IUCN, 1990). Invasive 

species are found in all taxonomic groups including introduced viruses, fungi, algae, 

mosses, ferns, higher plants, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. 

The impacts of invasive species are immense, insidious, and usually irreversible. 

Hundreds of extinctions, especially on islands (like Pemba), have been caused by 

alien species (IUCN, 1990). Article 8 (h) of the Convention on Biological Diversity 

(CBD) of which Tanzania is a Party states that "each Contracting Party shall, as far as 

possible and as appropriate, prevent the introduction of, control or eradicate those 

alien species which threaten ecosystem, habitats or species". 

The decision to use only alien species in plantation forests may have a negative effect 

on the local biodiversity through destruction of the habitat prior and after planting. 

Such introduced exotic species may suppress local species, which may disappear from 

the area. For example Maesopsis eminii tree (Rhamnaceae) was introduced in East 

Usambara from western Tanzania in the 1960s. Since then the tree has been spreading 

fast and it is predicted that in 200 years it will cover 50% of the area originally under 

natural forest (Binggeli, 1989). In all forest plantations plant species diversity was 

low. Some are comprised of pure stands of planted trees with only a handful of local 

species. This may be due to low competitive ability by the local species suggesting 

that in the long run the area may have most of local species completely out-competed. 

In plantation forestry indigenous species are considered as weeds so that during 

tending operations they have to be weeded out. Maesopsis eminii have been 

introduced in Ngezi forest and currently forms one of key forest habitats. Plans to 

eliminate the species from the forest need to be carefully planned after a proper study 

in order to avoid a potential ecological problem that may arise for removal of large 

Maeopsis trees in the forest. 

A number of alien species have been introduced to Pemba including the Javan civet 

(Viverricula indica), Common House rat (Mus musculus) and Black rat (Rattus rattus) 

(Moreau and Pakenham, 1941). Their effect remains unknown but some like the 

house rat are pests and potential vectors for diseases such as plague. Rattus rattus 

have been reported to cause damage to indigenous forest in New Zealand (Daniel, 

1972) and to coconut palms in Fiji (Williams, 1974). Detailed recommendations on 

the Rattus rattus problem has been outlined in the text. 

iv. Extraction of forest resources 

Timber harvesting is one of the most pressing threats to biodiversity in the study area. 

The basal areas of many of the timber trees were also very low indicating timber tree 

sizes had already been over-harvested. Collection of fuelwood, building poles and 

77

medicinal plants are other activities that may cause loss of species and therefore pose 

a threat to biodiversity. 

v. Agriculture 

Most of the areas in Ngezi - Vumawimbi are suitable for farming. Given the relatively 

high rainfall in Pemba and good soils suitable for crops such as cassava, maize, sweet 

potataoes, Banana, cloves, coconut palms and fruit crops most of the forest in both 

Ngezi and Vumawimbi has been encroached. Tha farmland has gone close to the 

forest such that there is no buffer zone but forest edge is where the farms start. This 

was evident in places such as Tondoooni, Makangare, Mkia wa Ng'ombe, Ngezi gate 

and Kisiwani. 

vi. Habitat loss and fragmentation 

This is one of the major threats to biodiversity. It arises mainly from converting 

natural vegetation into agricultural land or settlements. It is a major threat to most 

fauna species from large mammals to invertebrates. In Ngezi and Vumawimbi, forest 

loss and fragementation is evident in many places such that there are many 

encroached places and roads and passage ways are found almost everywhere in the 

forests. This is not a healthy situation for the forests. It has been observed in 

Usambara Mountains that frugivore species declined with decreasing forest fragment 

size. Consequently, the loss of these dispersal agents depressed tree recruitment in the 

course of forest fragmentation (Cordeiro and Howe, 2001). The lepidopterans 

(Butterflies and Moths) are completely dependent on specific plant species during 

their larval stage, which is the feeding stage. Any activities that result in the loss of 

the natural vegetation would adversely affect this group of insects. The larval stage of 

Dragonflies and Damselflies (Odonata nymphs) are aquatic predators. They are 

completely dependent on availability of fresh-water habitats. Any activity that results 

into modification or loss of fresh-water bodies would adversely affect the Odonata. 

For marine environment harvesting methods such as dynamiting and use of beach 

seines can cause serious habitat damage. 

vii. Hunting/over exploitation 

This includes both illegal and uncontrolled legal hunting. In Ngezi - Vumawimbi area 

hunting has been reported to affect species like wild boar, duikers, vervet monkeys, 

Zanzibar red colobus, and Pemba flying fox. It can be stated that huning is the 

primary cause of decline in numbers for most species in Ngezi - Vumawimbi followed 

by other factors. The Makonde immigrants are reported to be leading in hunting 

species such as the primates, wild boar and others. There are reports, which suggest 

that the currrent distribution of Zanzibar red colobus in Ngezi forest is greatly 

influenced by the Makonde activities. The colobus avoid areas where the Makonde 

are active as such they tend to be confined only in a certain relatively safe places of 

the forest so limiting their distribution range. 

viii. Diseases 

Transmission of diseases between people-wildlife-livestock has been reported to 

occur in Tanzania (GL-CRSP, 2002). Primates are close relatives of humans and 

diseases like polio, pneumonia, measles and flu and there are over 20 known, 

potentially lethal viruses that can be transmitted between non human primates and 

78

humans including Ebola, Marbug, hepatitis A and B, herpes B, SV40 and SIV (Fano 

et al, nd). This may not be an immediate problem for Ngezi - Vumawimbi area but it 

is something to be noted and taken seriously due to increasing number of visitors in 

the area coming from all over the world. 

ix. Pollution 

Observations in Ngezi - Vumawimbi forests showed that solid waste from litter is the 

main source of pollution. Materials like plastics, cans, bottles, papers were often 

found scattered in many parts of the survey area. The number visitors coming to 

Ngezi is not very high at the moment hence most of this litter originates from local 

people passing or utilising the area. 

x. Small population paradigm (Caughley, 1994) 

Most of the plant and animal species and communities in Pemba are in terms of 

numbers small and may also be rare, endemic or near endemic. These populations are 

isolated from their congeners on the mainland and hence may be subjected to 

inbreeding. The exception here could be the marine organisms, which are possibly not 

separated by any barriers from other populations and flying creatures, like bats and 

birds (Moreau and Pakenham, 1941). Island populations of plants and animals may 

appear healthy but could be genetically poor. Woody vegetation communities with 

long generation time mostly tend to exhibit this phenomenon whereby they 

physiognomically look healthy but are genetically poor (Burgess and Clarke, 2000). 

Such plant communities eventually suffer from inbreeding depression problems and 

may become locally extinct. Genetic studies may be necessary to establish the genetic 

status of some important species so that modern techonologies may be employed to 

improve the genetic status of the species of interest. 

xi. Declining population paradigm (Caughley, 1994) 

Generally island populations have higher extinction rates than continental populations 

(Moreau and Pakenham, 1941). Since most of these populations are small and may 

not be viable, the presence of agents resulting in decline in their number often 

becomes detrimental. Such agents could be over-exploitation or habitat loss and 

fragmentation or pollution. Animals like blue duiker, wild boar (naturalised) and some 

plant species could be affected by this problem. These populations are known to be 

declining and if this trend is not halted or reversed these species are likely to go 

locally extinct. 

xii. Tourism 

The number of tourists visiting Ngezi -Vumawimbi is currently low. However, given 

the attractiveness of the area and if efforts are done improve the infrastructure and 

advertise the area there is a high possibility that the number of visitors will increase 

substantially. Moreover Ngezi is the most important tourist destination in Pemba. 

There are a number of impacts arising from tourism including cultural, economic and 

environmental (e.g. pollution, disease transmission). The Ngezi management may use 

this time to work on aspects like, limits of acceptable use, and acceptable number of 

visitors, which can visit the area without having serious negative impact on the 

environment. 

Table 6.1: Summary of potential threats to biodiversity in Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest 

reserves, Pemba 

79

Group Species Threats 

Protected 

Encroachment, vegetation clearing, resources 

area 

exploitation, habitat fragmentation 

Mammals Zanzibar red Hunting, habitat loss and fragmentation 

colobus 

Pemba flying fox Hunting, habitat loss and fragmentation, loss of 

roosting sites 

Blue duiker Hunting, habitat loss and fragmentation, small & 

declining populations paradigm 

Pemba Blue Hunting 

Duiker 

Galagos 

Habitat loss 

Group Species Threats 

Mammals Marsh mongoose Habitat loss, drought 

Pemba Clawless Habitat loss, drought 

Otter 

Birds Waterbirds Water pollution, drought 

Other species Habitat loss and fragmentation 

Reptiles 

Amphibia 

ns 

Fish 

Invertebra 

tes 

Sea turtles 

Tortoises 

Molluscs 

(terrestrial, fresh 

water) 

Molluscs (marine) 

Lepidoptera 

Orthoptera 

Odonata 

Exploitation, loss of nesting sites, marine pollution 

Wildfires, habitat loss 

Pollution, habitat loss 

Exploitation, marine pollution, habitat damage 

Pollution, wildfires 

Marine pollution, exploitation 




8.0 GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS 

Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserves have about 12 main habitat types but although 

these appear few the area is relatively very rich in endemic, near endemic and rare 

species despite its small size. 

Ngezi – Vumawimbi forests have a variety of habitats rich in species. The availability 

of resources differs in quantity and quality from one habitat to another therefore 

making some habitats more vulnerable than others. In order to manage the biological 

resources available in the reserves. All decisions on management and planning 

optimization should embrace relevant factors including available technology (by local 

people) as well as indigenous knowledge, social-economic, cultural and political 

considerations (Herlocker, 1999). The managemnt plan of the forest needs to address 

and incorporate certain key issues for effective conservation of the area. These include 

the conservation of the rare, threatened, endangered and endemic species of flora and 

fauna. The impact of humans living on the edge of the park on the resources inside the 

park is an important aspect to consider when designing the management strategy of 

80

the proposed park. Likewise, the relevant organs should investigate the possibility of 

including the people on the edge of the park in the planning process. In view of these, 

the following recommendations are put forward: 

However, there are four key areas, which need to be considered when formulating the 

strategic conservation and management plan for Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserves. 

These include: 

• the Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserves 

• the surrounding habitats and communities involving neighbours to the forest 

reserves 

• the coastal shoreline, beaches and associated peninsulas and islands 

• the forest plantations 

1. Create tourist and recreation sites to promote tourism for Pemba Island. Ngezi 

Forest Reserve is the only vestige of what a natural forest looked like before 

the large forest coverage was cleared for land use. Tourists want to take their 

recreations in sites of natural environmental surroundings. Create biological 

and cultural information flow concerning the attractions of Ngezi Forest 

Reserve. It was a good Government decision not to allow hotel development 

within the reserve. Ngezi forest is very rich in invertebrate fauna such 

butterflies which if properly adverstised could form a very paying ecotourism 

attraction. 

2. Improve the road condition from Konde across the reserve to Makangale. The 

road section especially from the forest gate to Makangale is too narrow and 

with many potholes which makes driving through difficult. The section in 

particular, should be made more concrete. The traffic from Konde to 

Makangale is heavy and leads to a tourist hotel beyond Verani village. 

Endemic and endangered plant species are important in drawing attention of 

tourists who admire nature. Orchids and unique habitats like the heath-land 

would be exciting sites to visit. Many orchid populations are located in swamp 

areas of Barringtonia racemosa. It is a good decision to create accessible paths 

through these sites. Prepare self-guided tour routes to these sites. Due to the 

small size of the forests it is advisable to emphasize on trails and foot paths for 

tourists rather than the formal roadways. 

3. A public land should be acquired to establish forest plantations to meet fuel 

crisis and sources of building poles and other forest products. A botanical 

garden should be established where to raise plant seedlings. People living in 

the surroundings of the reserve and beyond should be encouraged to raise trees 

for their requirements in order to reduce pressure to obtain their basic 

resources from the reserve. 

4. Some tree species are excessively harvested for various uses. Medicinal plants 

especially Croton sylvaticus, are very effective against some diseases. Other 

tree species being heavily harvested for building poles and charcoal. For all 

these cases it is important to initiate and maintain a heavy flow of biological 

information through monitoring programme to arrest trends of over harvest. If 

any restoration is being programmed it should reflect social and economic 

systems of the surrounding villages. 

5. Forest conservation requires explicit efforts to eliminate the invasive exotic 

species initially introduced to fill up gaps created by over harvesting of 

indigenous forest trees. To meet the timber supplies, building material and 

81

useful fuel wood supplies the government should take considerations in 

establishing forest plantation in the acquired public land. Ngezi forest reserve 

is categorized among the ‘high priority sites’ for conservation along coastal 

forests. It is difficult to imagine if some of the endemic species were not 

affected by the clearance of forest to pave way for the exotic species. Exotic 

species are vigorous invaders of the new habitats and suppress the 

regeneration of indigenous species. It is recommended to monitor the impacts 

of the introduced trees. The impacts of Maesopsis eminii for the forest in 

Eastern Usambara are well documented. Cedrella mexicana in Kimboza forest 

is also becoming a nuisance to the neighboring habitats. However some 

ecologists argue that some opportunistic weed species may create only places 

where most of today’s weeds are most information carriers of the genetic 

information for environmental toughness. Nevertheless, the decision to 

eliminate exotic species such as Maesopsis eminii which already forms an 

important microhabitat, should be done carefully after a scientific stucdy has 

been conducted. 

6. The foresters entrusted with patrolling and maintaining the forest reserve 

should cope up and arrest offenders who illegally harvest forest produce. All 

forest routes used to collect forest produce should be blocked. Mr. Seleman 

showed us some of the methods the forest department staff apply to block such 

road trails and footpaths. 

7. A management policy to conserve a maximum number of species or 

endangered/rare species should be avoided. Such management policy usually 

causes fragmentation of the forest into un-natural mosaic of succession types. 

8. Compartment blocks are useful for monitoring species diversity and relocating 

where management efforts should be directed. Compartment boundaries are 

obliterated. This study could make use of the data by Rodgers et al. and 

Beentje. The boundaries of these compartment blocks should be restored. It 

was sadly observed to see the assignment of a higher priority to other 

disciplines. 

9. It is important to know peoples’ basic perception about their environmental 

awareness of forest conservation involving natural curiosity of rare plants, the 

primary source of commonly used necessities, focal species (flag species) e.g. 

save the rhino. Flag species need to be widely known by the target audience. 

Decision makers should attempt to have format and means of dispersing 

information. Neighboring communities may be very effective in the successful 

forest conservation. 

10. The knowledge of biological diversity will be meaningless to humanity unless 

the motivation to use it exists. There should be economic, cultural, social and 

conservation links. The problems of human beings (over population, habitat 

destruction, uncertainity of food, medicine and shelter) can partially be solved 

by making parts of biological diversity a source of economic wealth. 

11 A museum/reference collection should be built to accommodate limited 

mounted specimens of both plant and animal and invertebrate specimens 

occurring in the reserve, and any other historical and cultural documents. 

Permanent staff should be trained to manage such a museum. There is 

inadequate number of professionals to support conservation of Ngezi Forest 

Reserve. Opportunities should be made available to train enough staff. 

Research facilities should be incorporated into the management plan. 

82

12 The number of plant and animal populations in the forest are either rare, 

endemic, small or declining. Some populations may even be not ecologically 

viable. Immediate measures need to be taken to serve these species from 

disappearing. These species should also be subjected to monitoring 

programmes. Furthermore, the use, extraction and harvesting of all rare plant 

species should be controlled even if it means banning their utilisation. Simple 

habitat protection and controlling exploitation may be initial measures to 

conserve some of the affected animal populations. Few ecological studies have 

been conducted in Pemba hence little is known of what was in the past and 

even at present both in Ngezi and on the island as a whole. An isolated island 

like Pemba is always a potential of finding new discoveries everytime a study 

is conducted. It is recommended that a survey be done to establish species 

present in other areas of the island outside the forest in order to understand the 

species present and also enable plan for appropriate species conservation 

strategies. 

13 Using the available baseline data, there should be a close follow-up of any 

ecological change that might bring ecological imbalance and consequently loss 

of biodiversity. 

14 Seek cooperation from appropriate specialists who can help to identify some 

of the lesser known groups of plants and animals. For example invertebrate 

fauna have not been exhaustively studied, and Pemba is expected to have 

insular species because it is an island. 

15 In order to conserve the invertebrate fauna of the area it is important to 

conserve their habitat (e.g. forest, water bodies etc.), since they are completely 

dependent on it. Invertebrates have a high reproductive potential, and most 

insect species can sustain their population if there is minimum human 

interference. The chief threat for the invertebrate diversity is likely to come 

from loss of habitat through human activities, rather than any direct effect on 

the species themselves. Forest habitats are especially under pressure from 

surrounding human population through increased agricultural use (including 

cattle raising), collection of firewood and timber, and the harvesting of nontimber 

forest resources (medicinal plants, mushrooms, honey etc.). 

16 Undertake the study of the ecology and forest dynamics of Ngezi forest to 

identify the key pollinators and dispersal agents in the ecosystem. 

17 Monitor the introduced species of plants and animals on the ecology of the 

forest and determine their potential threats to the indigenous populations of 

plants and animals and take appropriate measures to control the situation 

18 People living on the forest edge through generations have used the forest area. 

There are no forest plantations surrounding the forest except those of rubber. 

The forest has been the source for fuelwood, poles, medicines and hunting 

ground. Members of the local community have been earning their living from 

the forest resources. Therefore, a better approach should be designed to 

allocate resource-use areas for human activities such as extractions and 

farming outside the forest. 

The presence of forest plantations is very important to take the pressure off the 

natural forest. The management strategy should aim to increase the area under 

forest plantation. Furthermore, increase in fuelwood prices could be a 

sufficient stimulus to encourage villagers to plant trees on their farms. 

Encouraging villagers to plant trees on their farms and around their homes or 

along the farm boundaries is a rational option because such trees act as 

83

windbreak, provide shade and could be sustainably harvested as fuelwood 

hence stop people from harvesting in protected areas. Decentralization of 

nurseries as much as possible is important to minimize transport costs and by 

doing so every village will be able to raise enough tree seedlings for their own 

woodlots or sale. Local residents should be encouraged to expand plantations 

of fast growing species that have proved to grow well in the project area. 

19 To embark on ethnobotanical surveys to identify all plant species used or with 

potential use to the local communities. Efforts should aim at selecting the 

potential species for further phytochemical investigation. Domesticating such 

species and development of harvesting protocols may be a useful tool for 

sustainable production systems. Some rare plant species should be introduced 

into the gardens in town (ex situ conservation). 

20 Evaluate the agricultural practices in areas surrounding the forest to determine 

potential threats to biodiversity arising from these practices including use and 

disposal of pesticides and other pollutants 

21 The local community's awareness, willingness and attitude towards 

biodiversity conservation are very important aspects. Educate local community 

through workshops or other means on the need, importance and benefits of 

biodiversity conservation. Emphasis could be put on the positive impacts of 

conservation such as increase in income earnings through tourism at the 

national, local community and individual levels. People should also be 

informed of other benefits such as employment opportunities to local people 

and improved social services such as health and education from revenues 

accrued from wildlife conservation. The importance of forests in influencing 

weather conditions can also be addressed. 

22 Indigenous knowledge should be incorporated in the management of 

biodiversity. The approach should be communal resource management which 

satisfies communal needs and sustainable biodiversity conservation. In this 

respect community forest management should be emphasized to ensure 

effective forest conservation. 

23 Integration of biodiversity management with land use resources is an effective 

approach of conservation. Planning should therefore include provisions of 

zonation and dermarcation of core areas in which sensitive species and 

ecosystems are protected. Establishment of a buffer zone may help to control 

entry and encroachment into the forest in order to maintain a healthy forest 

24 To initiate and maintain a flow of biological information from the site. The 

focus should be on habitat stability. Habitat changes and their consequences 

on biodiversity change should be monitored through follow-up studies. 

25 Initiate monitoring programmes to monitor changes in key biological and 

physical resources, environmental parameters and human demography in the 

project area 

i. A monitoring system is required to evaluate the consequences of the 

rapid decline of the forest and assess the prospects for their restoration. 

The major threats to the ecological conditions of the forest include 

timber exploitation, habitat degradation, land clearance for agriculture, 

fuel wood collection, building materials, medicinal plant uses and 

many other human activities involving forest resources 

ii. It is important to have regular basic ecological data such as rainfall, 

termperature and humidity 

84

iii. 

iv. 

Ensure that Zanzibaris are trained to develop the capacity and 

institutional strength in cooperation with other organs to carry out 

monitoring 

Monitor vegetation changes in areas where this survey was conducted. 

This study has provided a baseline data from which to start the 

monitoring 

26 Improve the publicity of Ngezi - Vumawimbi forest reserves at the same time 

taking precaution on the effect of having too much ecotourism. Emphasize on 

high paying low volume tourism. 

27 This report provides conditions outside the forest in 2005. There is a need to 

conduct modelling to predict the situation on long-term basis say 50 years. The 

strategic plan should incorporate data on what is happening outside and inside 

the forest reserves. 

9.0 REFERENCES 

Annon (1902) Forestry in German East Africa. Indian forester 1902: 372-374. 

Abdullah, H.S., Ali, M.S. and Kurikka, T. (1996) Ngezi Forest Reserve Management 

Plan. Zanzibar Forestry Development Plan, Tech. Paper No. 31. 

Adams, W. & Hulme, D. (2001) Conservation & Community changing narratives, 

policies & practices in African conservation. In African wildlife & livelihoods: 

The promise & performance of community conservation (eds D. Hulme & M. 

Murphree), pp. 9-23. James Currey Ltd, Oxford. 

85

Archer, A. L. and Mwinyi, A. A. (1995) Further Studies on the Two Duiker Species 

and the Suni Antelope in Zanzibar. Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and 

Natural Resources, Zanzibar. 

Beentje, H. J. (1990) Botanical Assessment of Ngezi Forest, Pemba. FINIDA Report 

to the Commission for Natural Resources, Zanzibar. 

Beentje, H. J. (1994) Kenya Trees, Shrubs and Lianas. National Museum of Kenya, 

Nairobi. 

Begon, M., Harper, J. L. and Townseed, C. R. (1996) Ecology: Individuals, 

Populations and Communities 3 rd Edition. Blackwell Science Ltd. Oxford. 

Bell, J.D., Pollard, D.A., Burchmore, J.J., Pease, B.C. & Middleton M.J. (1984) 

Structure of a fish community in a temperate tidal mangrove creek in Botany 

Bay, New South Wales. Australian Journal of Marine and Freshwater 

Research 35, 33-46. 

Berkes, F. (2004) Rethinking Community-Based Conservation. Conservation Biology, 

18, 621-630. 

Bernard, H.R. (1994) Research methods in Anthropology: qualitative and quantitative 

approaches, 2nd edn. Sage publications, Oaks, London, New Delhi. 

Bernard, H.R. (2002) Research methods in Anthropology: Qualitative and 

quantitative approaches, 3rd edn. AltaMira Press, England. 

Bianch, G. (1985) Field Guide to Commercial Marine and Brackish Water Species of 

Tanzania. FAO Species Identification sheets for Fishery purposes 

TCP/URT/4406 and FAO (FIRM) Regular Programme 199 PP. 

Binggeli, P. (1989) The Ecology of Maesopsis Invasion and Dynamics of the 

Evergreen Forest of the East Usambaras, and their Implications for Forest 

Conservation and Forestry Practices. In: Forest Conservation in the East 

Usambara Mountains Tanzania. (Eds. A. C. Hamilton and R. Bensted-Smith). 

The IUCN Tropical Forest Programme. 

Blaber, S. J .M., Young, J. W., and Dunning, M. C. (1985) Community structure and 

zoogeographic affinities of the coastal fishes of the Dampier region of northwestern 

Australia. Australian Journal aof Marine and Freshwater Research 

36, 247-266. 

Blaber, S. J. M. (1980) Fish of the Trinity inlet system of north Queensland with 

noted on the ecology of fish faunas of tropical Indo-Pacific estuaries. 

Australian Journal aof Marine and Freshwater Research 31, 137-146. 

Brown, K. (2002) Innovations for conservation and development. Geographical 

Journal, 168, 6-17. 

Bryce, J.M. (1967). The Commercial Timbers of Tanzania. Tanzania Forest Division 

Booklet Utilization Section, Morogoro. 

Budowski, G. (1965) Distribution of tropical rain forest species in the light of 

successional process. Turrialba 15: 40-42. 

Burgess N.D., Kock, D., Cockle, A., FitzGibbon, Jenkins P. and Honess P. (2000) 

Mammals. Pp 173-199. In: Coastal Forests of East Africa.Burgess N.D and 

Clarke P. (eds) IUCN 2000. 

Burgess, N.D. and Clarke, G.P. (2000). Coastal Forests of East Africa. The IUCN 

Forest Conservation Programme. 

Carcasson, R. H. (1977) A field guide to the Coral Reef Fishes of the Indian and West 

Pacific Oceans.320 pp. 

Carr, A. (1987) Impact of non-degradable marine debris on the ecology survival 

outlook of sea turtles. Mar.Poll.Bull. 18: 352-357. 

86

Caughley, G. (1994) Directions in conservation biology (review). J. Animal Ecology 

63: 215-244. 

Chhabra, S. C. and Uiso, F.C. (1991) Antibacterial Activity of some Tanzanian Plants 

used in traditional medicine. Fitioterapia 62: 499 – 503. 

Chhabra, S.C., Mahuna. R. L. A., and Mushiu, E. N. (1987) Plants used in Medicine 

in Eastern Tanzania. I. Pteridophytes and Angiosperms (Acanthuceae to 

Canelacceae). Journal of Ethnopharmatology 21: 253 – 277. 

CITES (1998) Checklist of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species 

of Flora and Fauna (CITES). CITES Secretariat/World Conservation 

Monitoring Centre. 

CNR-Fisheries (1997) Frame Survey Fisheries Act, 1988 

Colchester, M. (1997) Salvaging Nature: Indigenous peoples and Protected Areas. In 

Social Change and Conservation: Environmental politics and impacts of 

National Parks and Protected Areas (eds K.B. Ghimire & M.P. Pimbert), pp. 

97-130. UNRSD, UK. 

Cordeiro, N. J. and Howe, H. F. (2001) Low Recruitment of Trees Dispersed by 

Animals in African Forest Fragments. Conservation Biology 15(6): 1-9. 

Crawley, M. J. (1997) Plant Ecology. Blackwell Scientific Publications. 

Oxford/London/Edinburg/Boston. 

Daniel, M. J. (1972) Bionomics of the strip rat (Rattus r. rattus) in a New Zealand 

Indigenous Forest. New Zealand Journal of Science 15: 313-341. 

Davies, G. (Ed.) (2002) African Forest Biodiversity: A Field Survey Manual for 

Vertebrates. Earthwatch Institute. Europe. 

Dransfield, J. (1986) PALMAE. In Polhill, R. M. (Ed.), Flora of Tropical East Africa. 

A.A. Balkema/Rotterdam/Boston/Greeway, P.J. 

Dugan, P. J. (1990) Wetland Conservation: A review of current issues and require 

action. Gland: IUCN 

Duplantier, J-M & Rakotondravony, D 1999. Chapter 21. The Rodent Problem in 

Madagascar: Agricultural Pest and Threat to Human Health.pp. 441-459. In: 

Ecologically-based Management of Rodent Pests. Singleton, G.R., Hinds, 

L.A., Leirs, H. & Zhang, Z. (eds). Australian Centre for International 

Agricultural Reseaach. Canberra. 

Dytham, C. (2003) Choosing and using Statistics: a biologist’s guide, 2nd edn. 

Blackwell Publishing, London. 

Fano, A., Cohen, M. J., Cramer, M., Greek, R. and Kaufman, S. (nd) Of Pigs, 

Primates, and Plagues: A Laypersons Guide to the Problems With Animal - to 

- Human Organ Transplants. Medical Research Modernisation Committee 

http://www.mormcmed.org/pigs.html 

FAO (1984a) Species Identification sheets for fishery purposes. Western Indian 

Ocean fishing area 51. Volume I. (Eds. W. Fisher, and G. Bianch) Marine 

Resources Service, Fishery Resources and Environment Division, FAO 

Fisheries Department, Rome Italy. DANIDA. 

FAO (1984b) Species Identification sheets for fishery purposes. Western Indian 

Ocean fishing area 51.Volume II. (Eds. W. Fisher, and G. Bianch) Marine 



FAO (1984c) Species Identification sheets for fishery purposes. Western Indian 

Ocean fishing area 51.Volume III. (Eds. W. Fisher, and G. Bianch) Marine 



87

FAO (1984d) Species Identification sheets for fishery purposes. Western Indian 

Ocean fishing area 51.Volume IV. (Eds. W. Fisher, and G. Bianch) Marine 


Fisheries Department, Rome Italy. DANIDA 

FAO/Department of Environment Zanzibar (1999) Towards Integrated Management 

and Sustainable Development of Zanzibar's Coast. FAO/Department of 

Environment, Zanzibar 

Frankel, O. H. Brown A.H.D. and Burdon J.J. (1995). The Conservation of Plant 

Diversity. Cambridge University Press. 

FRONTIER (1995) Coastal Forest Research Programme; Status Reports for 11 

Coastal Forests in Coast Region, Tanzania (Eds. G. P. Clarke & A. 

Dickinson). Frontier-Tanzania Technical Report No. 17. The Society For 

Environmental Exploration and The University of Dar es Salaam. 

Gadgil, M. & Guha, R. (1992) This fissured land: an ecological history of India, 

Oxford University Press, and Delhi. In Pimbert, M.P. & Pretty, J.N. (1995) 

Parks, people and professionals. Putting participation into protected area 

management, Discussion paper. United Nations institute for Social 

Development, Geneva. 

Gates, C. E. (1969) Simulation study of estimators for the line transect sampling 

method. Biometrics 25: 317-328 

Gause, G. f. (1934). The struggle for Existence. Williams and Wilkins. Baltimorel 

reprinted 1964 by Hafner, New York. 

Given, D. E. (1994) Principles and practice of plant conservation. WWF/IUCN. 

Timber Press. Portland, Oregon. 

GL-CRSP (2002) Integrated Assessment Results to Aid Policy Decisions in 

Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania. POLEYC Project of the Global 

Livestock Collaborative Research Support Program (GL-CRSP). University of 

California. Report 79pp. 

Godman, B. and Talbot, F. (1976) Aspects of the ecology of coral reef fishes pp 125- 

154. In Jones D.A. and R. Endean (eds). Biology and geology of coral reefs 

Vol.III. Biology Academic Press, New York. 

Goldman, H. V. and Walsh, M. T. (1997) A leopard in jeopardy: an anthropological 

survey of practices and beliefs which threaten the survival of the Zanzibar 

leopard (Panthera pardus adersi). Conservation Section, Commission of 

Natural Resources, Zanzibar. 

Greenway. P.T. (1973). A classification of the vegetation of East Africa. Kirkia 9: 1- 

68. 

Hannah, L. (1992) African people, African Parks: An evaluation of Development 

Initiatives as a means of improving Protected Area Conservation in Africa. 

Conservation International, Washington DC. 

Harkonen, K. R. and Seitz C. J. (1993) Conservation and Tourism Development in 

Ngezi Area, Northwest Pemba. Report on the Village Survey made in the 

Tondooni Village, Ngezi, Pemba 1993. ISBN 951-47-7897-9 

Herlocker, D. (1999). Rangeland Resources in East Africa. Their Ecology and 

Development GTZ, Nairobi. 

Hill, M.J., Vel, T. & Shah, N.J. (2003) The morphology, distribution and 

conservation implications of introduced rats, Rattus spp. In the granitic 

Seyechlles. African J. of Ecology 41: 179-186. 

Holden, J.P., and Ehrlich, P.R. (1974) Human Population and the global environment. 

Agm.Sci, 62: 282-292. 

88

http://www.earthdive.com/ 

http://www.redlist.org/info/links.html 

IUCN (1990) Biodiversity in Sub-Saharan Africa and its islands. IUCN. Species 

survival Commission Paper No. 6. 

Jacobs, M. (1988) The tropical rain forest: Africa encounter. Springer-Verlag, Berlin, 

Heidelberg, New York. 

Khatibu, M. I. and Suleiman, R. H. (1993) Women’s participation in Forestry 

Activities in Zanzibar. Zanzibar Forestry Development Project Technical 

Paper No.6. Zanzibar Forestry Development Project Phase II. 

Kielland, J. (1990) Butterflies of Tanzania. Hill House, Melbourne and London. 

Kimani, E. N., Mwatha, G. K., Wakwabi, E. O., Ntiba, J. M. and Okoth, B. K. (1996) 

Fishes of a shallow Tropical Mangrove Estuary, Gazi, Kenya. Mar. 

Freshwater. Res. 47: 857-868. 

Kingdon, J. (1997) The Kingdon Field Guide to African mammals. Academic Press, 

London. 

Leskinen, J. and Silima, P. A. (1993) Unguja and Pemba coral rag forests inventory. 

Zanzibar Forestry Development Project Technical paper No. 10. 

Leskinen, J., Pohjonen, V. M. and Mbarouk, S. A. (1997) Woody biomass inventory of 

Zanzibar islands. Report 35pp. 

Macdonald, D.W., Mathews, F. & Berdoy, M. 1999 Chapter 3. The Behaviour and 

Ecology of Rattus norvegicus: from Opportunism to Kamikaze Tendencies. 

Pp. 49-80. In: Ecologically-based Management of Rodent Pests. Singleton, 

G.R., Hinds, L.A., Leirs, H. & Zhang, Z. (eds). Australian Centre for 

International Agricultural Research. Canberra. 

Marshall, S. (1994) The status of the Zanzibar leopard. Zanzibar FS, Commission for 

Natural Resources. 

Martens, E. E. (1992) Coastal wetland utilization. Pp 115-134 in S.A. Crafter, S.G. 

Njuguna and G.W. Howard (Eds) Wetlands of Kenya. Proceedings of the 

KWWG seminar on wetlands of Kenya, Nairoibi, Kenya, 3-5 July 1991. 

IUCN, Gland. 

Martin, J. G. (1995) Ethnobotany. Chapman & Hall, London. 

Mas-Cona, M.S., Estaban, J.G., & Bargues, M.D. 1999 Epidemiology of human 

fascioliasis: a review and proposed new classification. Bulletin of the World 

Health Organization 77: 340-346. 

Masoud, T. S., Finnie, D., Omar, A. B., Basha, A. U. and Wild, R. G. (2001) Zanzibar 

Red colobus Monkey Conservation Strategy: A long term strategy for the 

survival of the Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey Piliocolobus kirkii. Department 

of Commercial Crops, Fruits and Forestry/Ministry of Agriculture, Natural 

Resources, Environment and Co-operatives. 

Mayers, J. & Vermeulen, S. (2002) Company-Community Partnerships: From raw 

deals to mutual benefits? International Institute for Environmental and 

Development,, London. 

Mayers, J. (2001) Company-Community Forestry Partnerships: From raw deals to 

mutual benefits?, Vol. 2004. International Institute for Environmental and 

Development. 

Mbuya, L. P., Msanga, H. P., Ruffo, C. K., Birnie, A. and Tengas, B. (1994) Useful 

trees and shrubs for Tanzania: Identification, Propagation and Management 

for Agricultural and Pastoral Communities. Regional Soil Conservation Unit 

(RSCU) and Swedish International Development Authority, Dar es Salaam 

and Nairobi. 

89

Migdoll, I. (1987) Field Guide to the Butterflies of Southern Africa. New Holland, 

London. 

Moomaw, J. C, (1960) A study of the plant ecology of the Coast Region of Kenya 

Colony, British East Africa. Government Printer, Nairobi. 

Moreau, R. E. and Pakenham, R. H. W. (1941) The Land Vertebrates of Pemba, 

Zanzibar and Mafia: A Zoo-Geographical Study. Proceedings of the Zoological 

Society of London Series A. Vol. 110 Parts 3 and 4. 

Msuya, C.A. Sangu C. K., Kayombo, C.K., Howell, K.M., Ndangalasi H.J., Seleman, 

H., Ngalason, W. and Kihaule, P.M. 2004. Biological Diversity of the 

Mbarawara and Ruawa-Likonde plateaus in Lindi Region, Tanzania. Report to 

The Royal Denish Embassy, Dar es Salaam. Tanzania. 

Mturi, F. A. (1991) The Feeding Ecology and Behaviour of the Red Colobus Monkey 

(Colobus badius kirkii). PhD Thesis, University of Dar es Salaam. 

Mturi, F. A. (1993) Ecology of the Zanzibar red colobus monkey, Colobus badius 

kirkii (Gray, 1968), in comparison with other red colobines. pp243-263. In: 

Biogeography and Ecology of the rain forests of Eastern Africa (Eds. J. Lovett 

and Wasser). Cambridge University Press. 

Mueller – Dombois, D., Bridges, K.W and Carson, H.L. eds. (1986) Island 

Ecosystems. Biological Organizations in selected Hawaian communities. 

Hutchinson-Ross. Stroudsburg Dar. 583 pp. 

Nahonyo, C. L., Mwasumbi, L. B. and Bayona, D. (1997) Status of Woodland 

Vegetation and Utilisation in the MBOMIPA Project Area, Iringa Rural 

District, Tanzania. Research Document for the MBOMIPA Project/DFID. 

Nahonyo, C.L., Mwasumbi, L.B., Eliapenda, S., Msuya, C., Mwansasu, C., Msuya, 

T.M., Mponda, B.O. and Kihaule, P. Jozani –Chwaka Ba. Proposed National 

Park Biodiversity. Inventory Report. Submitted to Care Tanzania Department 

of Commercial Crops, Fruits and Forestry. Serikali ya Mapinduzi Zanzibar. 

Newmark, W. D. (2002) Conserving Biodiversity in East African Forests: A study of 

the Eastern Arc Mountains. Ecological Studies 155. Springer, Berlin. 

Ngece, K. (2003) Forestry conservation in East Africa. Community-based forestry is 

the answer, Vol. 2004. East African Ecotourism Development and 

Conservation Consultants Nairobi, Kenya. 

Nkunya, M. H. H., Weenen, H., Bray, D. H., Mgani, Q. H. and Mwasumbi, L. B. 

(1990a) Antimalarial activity of Tanzanian plants and their active constituents: 

The genus Uvaria. Planta Medica 57(1991). 

Nkunya, M.H.H., Weanen, H., Bray, D.H., Mgani, Q.A. and Mwasumbi, L. B. 

(1990b). Antimalarial activity of Tanzanian plants and their active 

constituents; the genus Uvaria planta medica.Paper 24/490 930 Biological 

Activities. 

Nowak, K. E. (2000) Red Colobus Monkey: daily Caloric Intake, Activity, and 

Dietary Protein. Pp 32. 

Ogden, J. C. (1980) Fundamental relationships in Carribean seagrass beds pp 173- 

198 In: Phillips, R.C. and C.P. McRoy (eds). Handbook of Seagrass biology: 

An ecosystem perspective. Earland STPM Press. NY 353pp. 

Oliver Bever 1986.Relative density and Relative frequency In: Krebs C. J. 2 nd Edition. 

Ecological methodology. 

Pakenham, R. H. W. (1984) The Mammals of Zanzibar and Pemba Islands. pp80. 

Pakenham, R. H. W. 1979. The Birds of Zanzibar and Pemba. British Ornithologists’ 

Union. London. 

90

Pakenham, R.H.W. 1983 The Reptiles and Amphibians of Zanzibar and Pemba 

Islands 177: 1-39. 

Pegler, D. N. (1977) A preliminary agaric flora of East Africa. Kew Bulletin 

Additional Series 6: 1-615. 

Pikkarainen, T. (1991) Inventory of Jozani and Ngezi Forests: Results. Forestry 

Department, Zanzibar & FINNIDA, Kuopio. 

Pimbert, M.P. & Pretty, J.N. (1995) Parks, people and professionals. Putting 

participation into protected area management, Discussion paper. United 

Nations institute for Social Development, Geneva. 

Pinhey, E. C. G. (1961) A Survey of the Dragonflies (Order Odonata) of Eastern 

Africa. British Museum, London. 

Pinhey, E.C.G. (1965) Butterflies of Southern Africa. Nelson, London. 

Pirinen, T. (1995) Conservation Consultancy Report. Zanzibar Forestry Development 

Project Technical paper No. 18. Zanzibar Forestry Development Project Phase 

III. 

Polhill, R. M. (1968) Conservation of vegetation in Africa, South of the Sahara. In: 

Hedberg, O. ad Hedberg, I. (eds). Acta Phytogeogra. Suec, 54. 

Polhill, R.M. Beentje, H.J, et al. (1952 – Present). Flora of Tropical East Africa. 

A.A.Balkema, Rotterdam/London. 

Robinson, J.G. & Redford, K.H. (1994). Community-based Approaches to Wildlife 

Conservation in Neotropical Forests. In Natural Connections: Perspectives in 

Community-based Conservation (eds D. Western, R.M. Wright & S.C. Strum), 

pp. 300-319. Island Press, United States of America. 

Ruffo, C. K. (1992) A report on species identification for Jozani and Ngezi Forest 

Inventory, Forestry Department, Zanzibar & FINNIDA, Kuopio. 

Ruffo, C.K., (1991). A Report on Species Identification for Jozani and Ngezi Forest 

Inventory. Unpublished Report. Tanzania Forest Research Institute, 

Lushoto. 

Salvat, B. (Ed) (1987) Human impacts on coral reefs: Facts and recommendations. 

Antenner Museum E.P.H.E., French Polynesia. 

Sasekumar , A. Ong, T. L. Thong K. L. (1984) Predation of mangrove fauna by 

marine fishes. (Eds. E. Soepadmo, A. N. Rao, D. J. MacIntosh). Proc As Symp 

Mangr Env Res Manag, Kuala Lumpur. 25-29 August 1980: 378-384. 

Scholtz, C. and Holm, E. (1985) Insects of Southern Africa. University of Pretoria, 

Pretoria. 

Shunula, J. P. (1990) A survey of the distribution and status of mangrove forests in 

Zanzibar, Tanzania. Environmental studies series No. 5. Comission for Lands 

and Environment. 

Siex, K. S. and Struhsaker, T. T. (1999) Ecology of the Zanzibar Red Colobus 

Monkey: Demographic Variability and habitat Stability. International Journal 

of Primatology 20 (2): 163-190. 

Silkiluwasha, F. (1981) The distribution and conservation status of the Zanzibar red 

colobus. African J. Ecol. 19: 187-194. 

Singleton, G.R., Hinds. L.A., Krebs, C.J. & Spratt, D.M. (eds). 2003 Rats, Mice and 

People: Rodent Biology and Management. Australian Centre for International 

Agricultural Research, Canberra. 

Smiet, A. C. (1989) Human impact on mountain forest in River Konto area: 

Vegetation and transect studies. Konto River Project. Project Communications 

No 11, Malang. 

91

Smith, J. & Scherr, S.J. (2002) Forest Carbon and local livelihoods: Assessment of 

opportunities and policy recommendations Center for International Forestry 

Research, Indonesia. 

Smith, M. M. and Heemstra, P. C. (Eds.) (1991) Smiths' Sea Fishes. 1 st Edition. 

Southern Book Publishers, Johannesburg, 1048pp, 144pls. 

Stanley, W.T, Kihaule, P.M., Howell, K.M. and Hutterer,R. 1998. Small Mammals of 

the Eastern Arc Mountains,Tanzania. J. East Afr. Nat. Hist. 87: 91-100. 

Stohlgren, T. J., Falker, M. A. and Schell, L. D. (1995) A Modified Whittaker 

Vegetation Sampling Method. Vegetation 17: 113-121. 

Struhsaker, T. T. and Siex, K. S. (1998) The Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey: 

Conservation Status of an Endangered Island Endemic. Primate Conservation 

18: 51-58. 

Stuart, C. T. (1999) A preliminary Faunal Survey of South-Eastern Unguja: With 

Emphasis on the Leopard (Panthera pardus adersi). Report 39pp. 

Unpublished. 

Swai, I. S. (1983b) Problems associated with wildlife conservation in Zanzibar. 

Unpublished report, Wildlife Division, Dar es Salaam. 

Swai, I. S. (1993a) Wildlife Conservation Status in Zanzibar. MSc Thesis, University 

of Dar es Salaam. 

Technical experts Group on Protected Areas, (2003) Protected Areas and the 

Conservation and Sustainable use of Biological Diversity in: 

http://www.sur.iucn.org/noticias/documentos/draft.pdf 

Thallot, P. (1992) Importance of mangroves for Pacific reef fish, myrth or reality? 

Proceedings of the seventh International Coral Reef Symposium 2, 934-941 

UNEP (2001) Eastern Africa Atlas of Coastal Resources: Tanzania. UNEP, 

Directorate for International Cooperation (DGIC) Belgium, United Republic 

of Tanzania. 

United Republic of Tanzania (URT) (2002) Population Census of 2002. Bureau of 

Statistics, Dar es Salaam. 

Valero, M.A., Marcos, M.D., Fons, R. & Mas Coma, S. 1998 Fasciola hepatica 

development in the experimentally infected Black Rat Rattus rattus. 

Parasitiology Research 84: 188-194. 

White, F. (1983) The Vegetation of Africa, A Descriptive memoir to accompany the 

UNESCO/AETFAT/UNSO Vegetation Map of Africa. UNESCO, Paris. 

Wildlife Division (1998) The Wildlife Policy of Tanzania. Ministry of Natural 

Resources and Tourism, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. 

Williams, A., Mwinyi, A. A. and Ali, S. J. (1995) A population survey of the miniantelope 

Aders' duiker (Cephalophus adersi), Blue duiker (Cephalophus 

monticola sundevalli), Suni (Neotragus moschatus moschatus) of Unguja, 

Zanzibar Section A. Technical Paper No. 26. Commission for natural 

Resources Sub-commission for Forestry Zanzibar, CARE, FINNIDA. 

Williams, J. M. (1974) Rat damage to coconuts in Fiji. Part I assessment of damage. 

PANS 20 (4): 379-391. 

Wilson, E. O. (1992) The Diversity of Life. Belknap Press, Cambridge, 

Massachussetts. 

Wily, L. (1995) Collaborative forest Management Villagers & Governemnet: The 

case of Mgori forest, Tanzania, Vol. 2004. Unyampanda village forest 

management committee. 

Wood, P. J. (1965) A guide to some German forestry plantations in Tanga Region. 

Tanzania notes and Records 66: 203 – 206. 

92

WRI/IUCN/UNEP (1992) Global biodiversity strategy. WRI/IUCN/UNEP, 

Washington DC: 

Zar, J. H. (1996) Biostatistical Analysis 3 rd edition. Prentice Hall, New Jersey. 

93

TERMS OF REFERENCE 

Outputs of the contract 

♦ A vegetation map of the forest showing vegetation types and their distribution. The map 

should be at a scale of 1: 10,000 and in colour. Three copies of the map should be 

supplied (unless provided in digital form - MapInfo compatible) 

♦ A vegetation species list for the habitats identified in the vegetation map with a 

quantitative assessment of species abundance. 

♦ A complete species list with an indication of distribution and relative abundance for the 

following taxa: Mammals, Birds, Reptiles, Amphibians, Fish, Butterflies and moths 

♦ A final report summarising the data collected and evaluationg the biological resources 

found within the forest reserves. The report should contain detailed assessment of 

important and endemic species, including IUCN status, conservation status and current 

threats. Management recommedations should also be provided. 

94

Appendix 1a: 

An annotated checklist of the Flora of Ngezi Forest, Reserve, NE, Pemba 

The present account is an up-dated checklist of plant and mushroom species known to occur 

in Ngezi Forest Reserve including areas recently annexed to the reserve. The study 

incorporates species list reported by Beentje 1990 and Ruffo 1991. The species richness of 

the flora may increase if more intensive study is carried out. This is because some habitats 

were not reached at all and others were inadequately sampled. The check list is arranged 

alphabetically including families, genera and species. The fungi come first in the 

arrangement, ferns and dicots follow and monocots come last. 

The additional information of the fungal flora (Harkonen et al. 2003) has always been 

neglected in the previous floristic studies. Some 13 fungal species have been recorded. Some 

of the specimens have only been named to generic level. This is because it was dry season 

during this study and the specimens were dry. For specific identifications it is necessary to 

have fresh materials. 

Vernacular names of plants are provided for those species known by the indigeneous people. 

Such vernacular names are available for those plants which are economically, socially or 

culturally useful such as timber trees, building material species and which provide medicines, 

fruits, vegetables or very common species in the forest. 

This checklist may prove useful for monitoring purposes, and may also be particularly useful 

source of information for future scientific researchers, for foresters and their auxiliary staff 

attached to Ngezi Forest Reserve. The list provides additional and new information for the 

flora of Tropical East Africa. For instance, Voacanga africana, Uvaria acuminata, Uvaria 

lucida, Sphaerocoryne gracile and many others, were not known to occur in Ngezi Forest 

Reserve in the Flora of tropical East Africa. (Polhill & Beentje 1970 – present). One specie 

was not known at all. Unkown sp. by Beentje is actually Blighia unijugata. Four species are 

known to generic level only. These are Uvaria sp., Tarenna sp., and Cyphostemma sp. 

List of vascular plants and mushroom species 

BN - Collection by Beentje 

RMH - Collection by Rodgers, Mwasumbi and Hall. Records seen by Rodgers, Hall, 

Mwasumbi, Swai and Vollesen have been incorporated in this list; where I have not 

been able to confirm their sightings, I have indicated such. 

SR - Denotes sight record by both Rodgers et al., and Beentje; otherwise there is a qualifier. 

fi - Denotes field identification (this differs from sight record: in FI one actually gets a piece 

of the plant and uses keys to identify it) 

M - Mwasumbi 

sr – site records 

Plants are arranged by family; the families are listed alphabetically, within the super 

groupings Mushrooms/Pteridophytes/Dicotyledons/Monocotyledons. 

Mushrooms 

Microporus xanthopus (Fr.) Kuntze 

Previously known to cause white-rot in mountain forests and miombo. Common saprophyte, 

said to be rare in Tanzania 

Phellinus sp. 

Hard white fruit body (young) 


Stipulate fruit bodies, dark brown (rusty) inside with an encored white margin, and upper 

surface dark brown with concentric rings. 

95


Stipulate young fruit body, stripe smooth brown, continuing to round half central upper part, 

vest upper part cream. Lower surface all smooth cream 

Pleurotosus sajur – carju 

Gills corrugated, light brown. Upper surface rough light cream; upper fruit body overlying 

lower two ones. Fruit bodies stem less. 

Trametes cf. gibbosa 

Stem less, corrugated fruit body; wrinkled upper fruit body, imbricate overlapping ones; with 

faint concentric lines. Gills indistinct. 

Trametes vesicolor 

Substipitate stem of fruit body and marginal rim of fruit body is cream white. Upper surface 

of fruit body is dark brown with indistinct or faint concentric rings while the lower surface is 

dusty cream. 


On dead logs of Maesopsis; same location and almost similar with Xanthopus, but regular rim 

is not white. Indistinct concentric rings on dark purple upper funnel-shaped surface. 

Trametes elegans 

Substipitate on dead logs. White both surfaces. 


Funnel shaped fruit body, white cream below. Concentric stripes quite distinct, cream and 

light brown. 

Laetiporus sulphorus (chicken of the woods) 

Yellow thick layer of the fruit body with rough upper surface and quite smooth lower surface. 

Funalia polyzona 

Overlapping upper layers, distinct concentric strips, and cream – yellow. 

Schizophyllum commune 

Small fruit bodies, many clustered together on dead trunks along the road. Margins of fruit 

bodies irregularly, with left. 

Xylaria is an Ascomycete genus which is associated with termite, but their fruit bodies are 

hard and inedible. 

PTERIDOPHYTES: Common and rare ferns 

Families Species name Vern. Notes Reference 

Name 

Aspleniaceae Acrostichum 

aureum L 

- Mangrove fern RMHS 

SR 

– 

96

Thelypteridaceae 

Gleicheniaceae 

Lomariopsidaceae 

Polypodioaceae 

Polypodiaceae 

Davalliaceae 

Dennstaedtiaceae 

Pteridaceae 

Psilotaceae 

Asplenium nidus 

L. 

Cyclosorus 

interruptus 

(Willd.) H.Ito 

Dicranopteris 

linearis (Burm.f.) 

Undrew. 

Elaphoglossum 

lastri (Bak.) C. 

Chr.; 

Lomariopsis 

warneckei 

(Hieron,) Alston 

– 

Microsorum 

punctatum (L.) 

Copel 

scolopendria 

(Burm.f.) Pichi- 

Serm. 

Nephrolepis 

biserrata (W.) 

Schott 

Phymatosorus 

Pteridium 

aquilinum (L.) 

Kuhn 

ssp.caudatum (L.) 

Bonap. 

Pteris 

acanthoneura 

Alston 

Pteris atrovirens 

Willd. 

Pteris hamulosa 

(Christ) 

Psilotum nudum 

(L.) Beauv. 

- Common birds 

nest-fern 

epiphyte on 

tree trunk 

Mgimbikuti 

Forms dense 

tangles on poor 

soils, and after 

fire in many 

habitats 

Epiphyte, 

simple fronds 

no indusia 

Climbing fern, 

rhizome with 

linear brown 

scales 

New for Ngezi, 

Pemba and 

Zanzibar 

Common 

terrestrial or 

climbing fern 

oil used to 

flavour 

coconut oil 

Common 

terrestrial fern 

Terrestrial in 

ruderal 

situations, 

pioneer species 

In forest shade 

In forest shade 

Woody 

erect/creeping 

rhizome in 

forest – FTEA 

2002 

Small - 

terrestrial on 

rocks in 

SR 

RMHS – 

SR 

RMHS – 

SR 

BN 4313 

SR 

RMH 2691 

M - sr 

M - sr 

RMH 2784 

97

Lomariopsidaceae Lomariopsis 

warnekei 

(Hieron) Alston 

Vittariaceae Vittaria elongata 

Sw. 

riverbed or 

epiphytic on 

palm trees, or 

terrestrial herb. 

Climbers in 

swamps 

Small 

epiphyte, 

linear hanging 

usually 

together with 

birds-nest fern 

(Asplenium 

nidus) 

RMH 2783 

RMH 2713 

DICOTYLEDONS 

ACANTHACEAE 

Species name Vern. Name Notes Reference 

Adhatoda englerana (Lindau) CB.CI. - Woody herb, moist forest * 

Asystasia multiflora KI. Herb RMH 2669 

Hygrophilla auriculata (Schumach.) 

Heinc 

Indicator, of seasonal wet 

cotton soils, a weed of 

ricefields 

Justicia tenella (Nees) T. Anders Herb, annual RMH 2750 

Pseuderanthemum tunicatum (Afz.) 

Woody herb, forest BN 4317 

Milne-Redh. 

Ruspolia sp. Woody herb RMH 

Whitfieldia elongata (Beauv.) C.B.CI. Mnyenyapaa Shrub in moist forest RMH 251 

ALANGIACEAE 

Alangium salviifolium (L.f.) Wangerin Mavimavi Canopy tree RMH 2707 

AMARANTHACEAE 

Achyranthes aspera L Weedy annual herb, SR 

indicator of disturbed sites 

Cyathula prostrata (L.) BI. Herb RMH 2697 

Pupalia lappacea (L.) Juss. Herb RMH sr 

ANACARDIACEAE 

Lannea schweinfurthii (Engl.) Engl. 

var. acutifoliolata (Engl.) Kokw. 

Muumba Mfupavu Canopy tree, coastal 

Kenya and Tanzania, 

Zanzibar and Pemba 

Mangifera indica L. Mwembe Mango tree, introduction 

from Asia usually 

associated with human 

habitation, spread in forest 

by humans and birds 

* 

BN-fi 

Rhus natalensis Krauss - Shrub, only found sterile BN - sr 

Sorindeia madagascariensis DC. Mpilipili doria Medium seized tree, 

especially in coastal bush 

land;East Africa and 

Madagascar 

sr 

BN 5240 

98

ANNONACEAE 

Annona senegalensis Pers. ssp. Mtopetope Shrub tree, edible fruit, 

senegalensis 

mchekwa 

medicinal roots, fuelwood 

Sphaerocoryne gracileVerdc. 

Scandent shrub in coastal 

dry forest 

Uvaria acuminata Oliv. 

Strong black liana coastal 

coral rock forest and 

thicket 

Uvaria lucida Benth. Liana edge of coastal 

bushland/coral rag forest 

Uvaria sp. B. of FTEA as BN states Liana, coastal, 

bushland/thicket 

APOCYNACEAE 

sr 

sr 

sr 

M-sr 

BN 4366 

Alafia caudata Stapf Large liana, milky sap RMH 277 

Ancylobotrys petersiana (KI.) Pierre Mbungo kidogo Medium sized liana in UOPZP (1949) 

forest 

Funtumia africana (Benth.) Stapf Mtonga, 

Medium to large liana BN 4949 

mlangamakelele 

Landolphia kirkii Dyer Mpoo Large Liana M-sr 

Oncinotis tenuiloba Stapf - Small climber new FTEA BN 4323 

record for Pemba 


Rauvolfia mombassana Stapf Mwengechaa Shrub/small tree BN-fi 

Saba comorensis (Bojer) Pichon Mbungo Large common lianfruits 

edible also sold in market 

stall and way sides 

BN & 

CBM - fi 

Schizozygia coffaeoides (Bojer) Baill. Mtonga mwitu shrub BN 4310 

Strophanthus zimmermannii Monach - Medium sized liana; south BN 4319 

coastal Kenya, coastal 

Tanzania new record for 

Ngezi, rare species 

Tabernaemontana pachysiphon Stapf Mtonga mwitu Medium sized forest RMH 2788 

margin tree 

Tabernaemontana ventricosa A.D.C Mapumba ya kima Large tree BN 4364 

Voacanga africana Stapf - Tall tree on raised sand 

beach, new record 

uncommon 

ARALIACEAE 

Cussonia zimmermannii Harms Mpapai dume, Large tree in coastal 

Mpapai mwitu thicket 

Polyscias fulva (Hiern) Harms Mbirimbi mwitu Tall tree, may be 

introduced as it differs 

from local populations 

upland areas. 

ASCLEPIDIACEAE 

sr 

BN - fi 

BN 4374 

Secamone retusa N.E Br. - Climber in heath and BN 4360 

forest margins. New 


Tacazzea apiculata Oliv. - Climber in coral rag forest sr 

BALSAMINACEAE 

Impatiens wallerana Hook.f. Matuanange Herbs of moist sites, 

especially riverbanks 

BIGNONIACEAE 

RMH 2645 

Tabebuia pentaphylla (Bertol) DC Majani matano Exotic timber tree RMH 2690 

BOMBACACEAE 

Adansonia digitata L. Mbuyu Isolated trees on coral rag 

coast forest 

Bombax rhodognaphalon K. Schum. Msufi mwitu Tree in moist and coastal 

var. rhodognaphalon(rhodognaphalon 

foest unlike Beentje 

M - sr 

BN 4341 

99

schumannianum) records also in Tanzania 

BORAGINACEAE 

Boureria petiolaris (Lam.) Thulin 

(Ehretia petiolaris) 

Cardia alliodora (Ruiz & Pavon) 

Oken 

CAPPARACEAE 

Mbunduki 

Shrub or small tree in BN 4334 

coral rag dry forest 

Mkamasia mkodia Introduced timber, tree sr 

Cladostemon kirkii (Olv.) Pax & Gilg Shrub or small tree in 

coastal thick 

CASUARINACEAE 

Casuarina equisetifolia L. Mvinje Large introduced tree on 

beach crest, now being 

naturalized 

CELASTRACEAE 

RMN 2771 

Elachyptera parvifolia (Oliv.) N.Halle Big liana >10 igh RMH 

Maytenus senegalensis (Lam.) Excell Mdinga ndewe Small piny tree RMH 2706 

mnyonyao 


Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thumb.) Mlimbolimbo Medium sized tree or RMH 2782 

Loes 

shrub forming bush 

Salacia elegans Oliv. Mguko Shrub or liana RMH 2782 

Salacia leptoclada Tul. Liana M-sr 

Salacia madagascariensis (Lam) DC – Mtora, mtoria, 

mguku 

CHRYSOBALANACEAE 

Liana, yellow roots 

Hirtella zanzibarica Oliv. Large tree RMH - sr 

Parinari curatellifolia Benth.ssp. 

curatellifolia 

COMBRETACEAE 

sr 

M-sr 

Mmbura Large tree BN 4342 

Combretum paniculatum Vent - Spreading large liana on 

tall trees where it forms 

bush. Bright red flowers. 

Combretum sp.cf. umbricola - Liana over canopy trees Sr 

BN 4375 

m-sr 

Terminalia boivinii Tul. [T.fatraea] Mkunguni Branched tree coastal BN - fi 

forest and thicket 

Terminalia catappa L. Mkungu Inroduced tree sr 

Terminalia ivorensis A. Chev. or Mkungu india Introduced timber tree RMH – sr 

Terminalia superba Engl. & Diels 

Terminalia sambesiaca Engl. & Diels Large tree RMH - sr 

COMPOSITAE 

Ageratum conyzoides L. 

Kimavi cha kuku; Annual weedy herb in M - sr 

mtumbaku 

ponds and fields 

Pulchea sordida (Vatke) Oliv. & - Woody herb/small shrub RMN - sr 

Hiern. 

Psiadia punctulata (DC.) Vatke Mkengeta; mwezi shrub 

M – sr 

upande 

Vernonia zanzibarensis Less. Mtumbako mwitu Shrub especially in edges RMH 2760 

of Erica mafiens is and 

coastal dry forest 

CONNARACEAE 

Agelaea pentagyna (Lam.) Baill. Liana M- fi 

Connarus sp. nov. = 4159/Rodgers et 

Liana 

M- fi 

al. 

Cnestis corniculata Lam. Liana BN 4370 

DICHAPETALACEAE 

Tapura fischeri Engl. Mtama mwitu Medium tree RMH 2658 

100

DILLENIACEAE 

Tetracera litoralis Gilg 

EBENACEAE 

Mkala 

Mpalafisi 

Shrub, extends to coastal 

Kenya, Tanzania 

Diospyros consolatae Chiov. Mjengo Tree, coastal dry forest 

and thicket 

Euclea racemosa Murr. ssp. schimperi Mdaa-mwitu 

(A.C.D.) F.White 

BN 4315 

BN 4328 

RS 

ERICACEAE 

Erica mafiensis Engl.. 

Mdamba Shrub forms denses, 

(= Phylippia mafiensis) 

dominant bush; Endemic 

Hypericum sp. - Forms dense mat on ponds 

in moist forest 

ERYTHROXYLACEAE 

BN 4337 

M - fi 


Erythroxylum emarginatum Thonn. Shrub on coastal thicket BN - fi 

EUPHORIBIACEAE 

Acalypha neptunica Muell.Arg. Muweza Shrub in moist forest M - fi 

Antidesma membranceum Muell. Arg. Msisimizi Shrub/small tree Greenway 2702 

Antidesma venosum Tul. Msisimizi Shrub or smalltree BN 4365 

Bridelia micrantha (Hochst.) Baill... – Mkarati, Mtutututu Small tree, building poles, RMH 2669 

terminat-resistant 

Croton scheffleri Pax - Shrub RMH 2708 

Croton sylvaticus Kraus Mdawadawa Tree in moist RMH 2671 

Drypetes natalensis (Harv...) Hutch. 

var. leiogyna Brenan 

Mjafari, 

mgandama, 

msunduri 

Tree, restricted to coastal 

Kenya, NE and west 

Tanzania, Zanzibar 

BN 4302 

Drypetes reticulata Pax - Tree, coastal evergreen RMH 2761 

and moist forest 

Erythrococca kirkii (Mull.Arg.) Prain Mgombere Shrub in coral rag forest RMH 2673 

Flueggia virosa (Willd.) Voigt Mkwamba Shrub BN - fi 

Macaranga capensis (Baill.) Sim. - Mlangamakelele, Canopy tree 

sr 

Mkaranga 

Margaritaria discoidea (Baill.) - Large tree in dry coastal RMH 2683 

Webster var triplosphaera 

(Baill.) Webster 

forest. Used as building 

poles 

Phyllanthus nummulariifolius Poir. - Annual herb BN 4301 

Suregada zanzibariensis Baill. Mdimu msitu Shrub or small tree BN 4216 

Tragia furialis Bojer Weni, Kiwavi Trailing climber, stinging BN - sr 

Uapaca guineensis Mull. Arg. Mchenza msitu Large tree in moist forest BN 2615 

and swamp forest 

Uapaca sansibarica Pax - Large tree new for Pemba RMH - sr 

FLACCOURTIACEAE 

Casaeria gladiiformis Mast. - Medium tree RMH 2681 

Flacourtia indica (Burm.f.) Merr. Mchongoma Tree BN - fi 

Ludia mauritiana Gmelin Shrub RMH 2761 

Rawsonia lucida Harv... & Sond. Mpera mwitu Tree RMH 2693 

Xylotheca tettensis (Klotzsch) Gilg 

var. kirkii (Oliv.) Wild - 

GOODENIACEAE 

Mchakachaka Shrub M - sr 

Scaevola prumieri (L.) Vahl - Salt bush, succulent on 

coastal sandy beach 

M - sr 

101

GUTTIFERAE 

Calophyllum inophyllum L. Mtondoo Exotic timber tree SR 

Garcinia livingstonei T. Anders - Tree RMH - sr 

Harungana madagascariensis Poir. Mdamudamu Forest margin tree, small 

tree in forest relicts 

ICACINACEAE 

Apodytes dimidiata Arn. ~. var. 

acutifolia (A. Rich.) Boutique 

Leptaulus holstii (Engl.) Engl. 

LECYTHIDACEAE 

- Tree on edges of Erica 

bushland 

Small shrub 


Barringtonia racemosa (L.) Sprang Mtomondo (mke) Tree in swamp forest, host RMH 2744 

of many epiphytic orchids 

Barringtonia asiatica (L.) Kuntz Canopy Tree Introduced 

LEGUMINOSAE – CAESALPINIACEAE 

Afzelia quanzensis Welw. 

Mbambakofi, Forest tree, coastal SR 

mkongo 

Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. Mkomwe, Mkete Spiny bush forming M - sr 

rambler 

Caesalpinia volkensii Harms Liana with prickles, BN 4377 

restricted to Uganda, 

Kenya and Tanzania 

Cassia sp. - Hairy shrub M – sr 

Erythophloeum suaveolens (Guill... & Mwavi Canopy tree SR 

Perr.) Brenan 

Tamarindus indica L. Mkwaju Canopy tree/emergent in BN - fi 

coastal thicket 

LEGUMINOSAE – MIMOSACEAE 

Albizia adianthifolia (Schumach.) 

W.F. Wight 

Dichrostachys cinerea (L.) Wight & 

Arn.ssp.cinerea – 

Mchapia tumbili Canopy tree RM 2727 

Mvunja shoka 

Small tree especially in 

disturbed areas and forest 

edge 

Entada pursaetha DC Mkuungo, Mukuno Large Liana SR 

SR 

SR 

BN - sr 

Mimosa pudica L. Kifa uongo Weed, edge of seasonal M - sr 

pond 

Prosopis sp. - Introduced tree Reported 

LEGUMINOSAE – PAPILIONACEAE 

Dalbergia melanoxylon Guill. & Oerr Mpingo Medum coastal thicket/ BN 4348 

forest tree 

Desmodium adscendens (Sw.) DC. Trailing herb M - sr 

Eriosema parviflorum E. Mey. Mchunga mbuzi Fringing swamp M - sr 

Indigofera astragalina DC. Woody herb M - sr 

Indigofera trita L.f. 

Bush forming woody herb M - sr 

edge of bushland 

Millettia oblata Dunn ssp. intermedia 

Tree RMH 2716 

Gillett 

Mucuna gigantea (Willd.) DC. Upupu Large liana SR 

Teramnus labialis (Linn.f.) Spreng Fringing swamp M - sr 

Pterocarpus indicus Willd. Mdamudamu Introduced large branched 

tree as a boundary market 

Sophora tomentosa L. ssp. tomentosa Mtupwa Shrub, seashore for fish 

poisoining 

LENTIBULIARACEAE 

Utricularia gibba L. Submerged herb in 

pools/swamps 

SR 

M - sr 

RMH 2785 

102

LOBELIACEAE 

Lobelia anceps (Thunb) Thulin Kikwayakwaya Herb, forest margins BN – sr 

Anthocleista grandiflora Gilg Mpamba mwitu Tree of swamp forest SR 

Strychnos angolensis Gilg Mvinje Msitu Liana RMH 2778 

Strychnos panganensis Gilg Mbugu-bafe Bush forming liana, 

coastaldry forest 

M – sr 

LYTHRACEAE 


Pemphis acidula Forst. & Forst .f. Mkaa pwani Shrub on coral beac crest BN - fi 

MALPHIGIACEAE 

Acridocarpus zanzibaricus (L.) A. 

Juss. 

MALVACEAE 

Mkenge wa Paka Liana/climber, coastal 

thicket. Somalia to 

Central East Tanzania 

Gossypioides kirkii (Mast...) J. B. Mpamba mwitu Shrub BN 4316 

Hutch 

Hibiscus surattensis L. - Scrambling herb M -sr 

Hibiscus tiliaceus L. Mkakawa Shrub on beach RMN 2703 

MELASTOMATACEAE 

Dissotis rotundifolia (Sm.) Triana Kichinja uthia Creeping herb 

Mchenja ziwa 

Melastomastrum segregatum (Benth.) - Shrub edge of 

A. & R. Fernandes 

pools/swamps 

Tristemma mauritianum J.F. Gmel. - Shrubby herb marshy open 

sites 

SR 

BN - SR 

RMH 2768 

RMH 2718 

MELIACEAE 

Cedrela mexicana M. Roem - Introduced timber tree SR 

Entandophragma sp. - Timber tree said to be BN 

introduced 

Khaya anthotheca? (welw.) C.D.C. - Introduced timber tree SR 

Trichilia emetica Vahl - Tree RMH – SR 

Xylocarpus granatum Koen. Mtonga Mangrove tree species BN - sr 

MENISPERMACEAE 

Discoreophyllum volkensii Engl. var. 

Liana RMH 2769 

volkensii 

Tinospora oblongifolia (Engl.) - Liana, new record for BN - sr 

Troupin 

Pemba 

Triclisia sacleuxii (Pierre) Diels var. - Liana BN 4344 

sacleuxii 

MENYANTHACEAE 

Nymphoides cf. kirkii (NE Br.) ined. - Floating aquatic in ponds, BN sr 

new record for Pemba 

MORACEAE 

Antiaris toxicaria Lesch. Mgulele Canopy timber tree SR 

Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg Mshelisheli Introduced tree with edible SR 

Mfenesi mfuu breadfruit 

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. Mfenesi (Jackfruit) Introduced tree SR 

Dorstenia tayloriana Rendle - Woody herb, rare new for BN 4372 

Pemba 

Ficus exasperata Vahl Msasa dume Canopy tree SR 

Ficus lutea Vahl Mlangawa Canopy tree RMH 2783 

Ficus rokko Warb. & Schweinf.. Mlandenge Canopy tree SR 

Ficus scasselatii Pamp Mtonga mwitu Large tree BN - fi 

103

Ficus sur Forssk. [F.capensis] Mkuyu Canopy tree RMH 2680 

Milicia excelsa (Welw.) C.C. Berg 

(Chlorophora excelsa) 

MYRTACEAE 

Mvule Canopy timber tree SR 


Eucalyptus sp – Mkaratusi Mkaratusi Introduced may be more SR 

than one species 

Eugenia capensis (= Vaughan 1676) Mkaage New species restricted to BN 4219 

Zanzibar and Pemba only 

Syzgium cordantum Krauss Mzambarau ziwa Medium tree in heathland, SR 

swamps and coastal forest 

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels – Mzambarau Naturalized canopy tree BN 4238 

NYMPHAESCEAE 

Nymphaea nouchali Burm... var. 

zanzibarensis (Casp.) Verdc. 

OCHNACEAE 

Myungiyungi Aquatic herb BN -sr 

Ochna chomasiama Engl. & Gilg Shrub in coastal forest M - sr 

Sauvagesia erecta L RMH 2735 

OLEACEAE 

Olea woodiana Knobl. Mchunga mwitu Tree in coastal forests BN 4332 

ONAGRACEAE 

Ludwigia abyssinica A. Rich. - Shrubs in muddy silt 

ponds 

Ludwigia jussioaeoides Desr - Herb, in seasonal wet 

ponds moist forest 

Ludwigia stolonifera (Guill. & Perr.) 

Prostrate herb in seasonal 

Raven 

ponds/wet sites 

OXALIDACEAE 

Averrhoa sp. (A. carambola in 

Forestry records) 

PASSIFLORACEAE 

M –sr 

M - sr 

M - sr 

Mbirimbi Introduced tree SR 

Adenia gummifera (Harv.) Harms var. - Climber in forest BN 4346 

gummifera 

edges/disturbed sites 

Adenia rumicifolia Engl. Mgole Climber in forest margins RMH 2677 

Piper betle L. Mtambuu Small climber possibly 

introduced 

RHAMNACEAE 

BN 4368 

Colubrina asiatica (L.) Brongn. - Climbing shrub BN - fi 

Maesopsis eminii Engl. Msisi Introduced timber tree SR 

Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurtz Msoo Climber with spines, new 

for Pemba 

RHIZOPHORACEAE 

Bruguiera gymnorrhiza (L.) Lam. Mchonga Mangrove tree SR 

BB - fi 

Cassipourea euryoides Alton Medium sized tree Rare species 

Cassipourea gummiflua Tul. var. Msikundazi Medium sized tree BN - sr 

verticillata (N.E Br.) J. Lewis 

Ceriops tagal (Perr.) CB Robinson Mkandaa Mweupe Mangrove tree BN - sr 

Rizophora mucronata L Mkoko Mangrove tree SR 

RUBIACEAE 

Agathisanthemum bojeri Klotzsch - Herb open sites RMN – sr 

Canthium mombazense Baill. Shrub BN 4343 

104


Chassalia umbraticola vatke ssp. Mwango Mpelepele Shrub RMH 2649 

umbatricola 

Craterispermum scheweinfurthii Hiern Small tree Greenway 1482 

Cremaspora triflora (Thonn.) K. Mkanja Shrum or small tree BN - fi 

Schum.ssp. confluens (K.Schum.) 

Verdc. 

Geophila repens (L.) I.M. Johnston - Herb RMH 2790 

Guettarda speciosa L. Mkaa pwani Beach tree RMH 2704 

Heinsia zanzibarica (Boj.) Verdc Mfifiyo Shrub or small tree M - sr 

Keetia gueinzii (Son.) Bridson, Mpendapendapo Climber/liana forming RMH - sr 

bush 

Kraussia speciosa Bullock - Shrub/small tree BN 4325 

Kohatia sp. Herb fringing a swamp M - sr 

Laygnias pallidiflora Bullock 

Lampthrothamus zanguebaricum Mkokobara mchesi Small tree M - sr 

Hiern 

Leptactina platyphylla (Hiern) Wernh. Mbuni mwitu Small tree for poles BN 4378 

Oldenlandia lancifolia (Schumch.) - Herbs in seasonal M - sr 

DC. var. scarbridula Bremek 

pools/swamps 

Pavetta sp. Shrub RMH 2647 

Pentas micrantha Bak. Kivuma nyuki Forest edges or open sites RMH 2647 

Herb 

Pentodon pentandrus (Schumach. & - Weak herb in balck damp M - sr 

Thonn.) Vatke var. minor Bremek 

soils of ponds/swamps 

Polysphaeria parvifolia Hiern Mkanja Shrub SR 

Psychotria sp. - Shrub BN 4311 

Psychotria holtzii (K.Schum) Petit var. Mangwe 

Shrub in heathand, forest BN 4359 

holtzii 

edges 

Psychotria lauracea (K.Schum) Petit Msigande Shrub RMH 2725 

Psychotria riparia (K.Schum. & K. 

Shrub Vaughan 742 

Krauss) Petit. 

Psychotria schliebenii Petit var. 

Shrub RMH 2659 

schliebenii 

Psychotria tanganyikensis Verdc.var. - Shrub RMH 2724 

ferruginea Verdc 

Psydrax kaessneri (S. Moore) Bridson 

Shrub in heathland RMH 2751 

[canthium kaessneni] 

Psydrax livida (Hiern) Bridson 

Shrub RMH 2799 

[Canthium huillense] 

Psydrax recurvifolia (Bullock) Mtengeji 

Scandent shrub or small RMH – sr 

Bridson 

tree 

Pyrostria bibracteata (Bak.) Cavaco Mfupapu Shrub or small tree RMH 2763 

[Canthium bibracteatum]; 

Spermacoce princeae (K.Schum.) 

Herb in seasonal wet 

Verdc. [= S.hispida L] 

ponds 

M - sr 

Tarenna pavettoides (Harv.) Sims sp. - shrub BN 4361 

affinis (K.Schum.) Bridson 

Uncaria africana G.Don var.orientalis Msoo Climber to canopy BN 4388 

Verdc. 

Vangueria sp. A of FRTEA - Shrub, endemic Burgess 2000 

RUTACEAE 

Vepris eugeniifolia (Engl.) Verdorn Mchunga mwitu shrub BN 4336 

SAPINDACEAE 

105


Allophylus griseo-tomentosum Gilg - Shrub or smallt ree RMH – sr 

Allophylus pervillei Bl. Mchacha Liana or shrub BN - fi 

Allophylus vestitus F.G. Davies. - BN 4339 

Allophylus sp. near grotei - Shrub BN 4330 

Blighia unijugata Bak. (includes the Mkivuli, 

Tree RMH 2723 

unknown species) 

Mwakamwatu 

Deinbollia borbonica Scheff. Mkunguma Small tree SR 

Dodonaea viscosa Jacq. Mkaa pwani, Shrub, coastal forest M - sr 

Mkengata 

Haplocoelum inoploeum Radlk. Mtumbi Tree in dry coastal forest SR 

and thicket 

Majidea zanguebarica Oliv. Mchenya Canopy tree RMH 2702 

Paullinia pinnata L Mmbugu Climber in forests SR 

SAPOTACEAE 

Englerophytum magalismontanum - Medium tree BN - fi 

(Sond.) Pennington 

Chrysophyllum lanceolatum (BI.) 

Small tree only known Peddington 

DV.var. stellatocarpum van Royen 

from Pemba 

Inhambanella henriquesii (Engl. & Msikundazi Medium tree new for BN 4389 

Warb.) Dubard 

Pemba 

Monotypic sp. in SE Trop. 

Africa 

Manilkara sansibarensis (Engl.) 

Medium tree RMN 2775 

Dubard 

Manilkara sulcata (Engl.) Dubard Small tree BN - fi 

Pouteria brevipes (Baker) Pennington Mchocha jike Canopy tree SR 

Pouteria msolo (Engl.) Peddington Mchocha dume Canopy tree SR 

Sideroxylon inerme L. ssp. 

diospyroides (Baker) J.H Hemsl. 

SCROPHULARIACEAE 

- Small branded tree BN – fi 

Bacopa crenata (P. Beauv.) Hepper - herb RMH 2700 

Limnophila indica (L.) Druce Herb, aromatic in marsh RMH 2669 

Scoparis dulcis L. 

SIMAROUBACEAE 

Quassia indica (Gaertner) Nooteb. 

[Samadera indica] 

Quassia undulata (Guill...& Perr) D. 

Dietr. [Odyendea zimmermannii] 

SONNERATIACEAE 

Mtomondo dume Tree in swamp forest an BN 4322 

eastern Asia species, 

medicinal oil and 

insecticide 

Mjoho Canopy tree BN 4307 

Sonneratia alba Sm. Mpira, Mlilana Mangrove tree species SR 

STERCULIACEAE 

Heritiera littoralis Ait. Msikundazi Mangrove tree species SR 

Melochia corcholfolia L - Invasive herb in seasonal 

wet pond 

THYMELEACEAE 

Synaptolepis kirkii Oliv. Mkatu Small shrub or climber SR 

M - sr 


TILIACEAE 

Grewia plasiocarpa K. Schum. - Shrub M - sr 

106

Grewia stuhlmannii K. Schum. Mfukufuku Shrub or liana forming BN - fi 

bush 

Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq. Mchokochole Woody herb M-sr 

ULMACEAE 

Trema orientalis (L.) BI. Mpesi Small tree SR 

VERBENACEAE 

Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh Mchu Mangrove tree SR 

Clerodendrum glabrum E.Mey. Mtozatoza 

Shrub 

M - sr 

mlanyuni 

Clerodendrum hildebrandtii Vatke Shrub; coastal bushland M - sr 

Premna obtusifolia R. Br. 

Shrub common in coral RMH 2728 

rock forest 

Stachytaphytta urticifolia Sims Kikwayakwaya Invasive herb M - sr 

Tectona grandis L.f. Msaji Introduced timber tree 

(teak tree) 

Vitex doniana Sweet Sweet –Mfuru, Medium tree in open areas 

mfuu 

Vitex ferruginea Schum. 

VIOLACEAE 

Rinorea arborea (Thou.) Baill. - Trees in Coastal Kenya to 

Mozambique, Madagascar 

VITACEAE 

SR 

SR 

M - sr 

BN 4327 

Ampelocissus africana (Lour.) Merr. 

Liana; coastal forest on M - sr 

coral rock 

Cisssus integrifolia (Bak.) Planch. 

Climber in forest margins. BN 4327 

New record for Pemba 

Cissus oliveri Gilg 

Climber, not in FTEA for RMH 2666 

Pemba & is high altitude 

species 

Cissus quadrangularis L.var. 

Succulent liana with BN 4345 

quadrangularis 

winged stem segment 

Cissus rotundifolia (Forssk.) Vahl.var. 

Vigorous climber M - sr 

rotundifolia 

Cyphostemma sp. 

Climber in coral rock M - sr 

forest 

Rhoicissus revoilii Planch. Climber BN - fi 

Rhoicissus tridentata (L.f.) Wild & 

Drum. 

Climber 

BN - fi 

MONOTCOTYLEDONS 

ALOACEAE 


Aloe massawana Reynolds Mshubiri-mwitu Succulent herb, new for M - sr 

Pemba 

AMARYLLIDACEAE 

Scadoxus multiflorus (Martyn) Raf. Yungimanga Herb SR 

ARACEAE 

Culcasia orientalis Mayo Climber SR 

Gonatopus boivinii (Decne.) Engl. Herb SR 


Typhonodorum lindleyanum Schott Herb; restricted to SR 

Madagascar and Pemba, 

Unguja 

Zamioculcas zamiifolia (Lodd.) Wangadume Herb SR 

Engl. 

BROMELIACEAE 

Ananas comosus (L.) Merr. var. Mnanasi pori Herb, is endemic SR 

107

nov. 

COMMELINACEAE 

Commelina diffusa Burm...f. Herb RMH 2695 

Murdannia axillaries Brenan Herb RMH 2698 

CYPERACEAE – the sedges (after Haines et al. 1983) 

Cyperus erectus (Schum.) Mattf. & 

Kuk. Not in Haines (1983) at low 

attitudes 

Perrenial with creeping 

rhizome on seasonal wet 

ponds 

M - sr 

Cyperus macranthus Boeck in ponds M - sr 

Cyperus prolifer Lam. ssp. 

Perrenial in permament wet RMH 2756 

isoclados Kukenth 

ponds and swamps 

Cyperus polystachyus 

Tufted perennial in dry M - sr 

Rottb.var.laxiflorus (Benth.) K. Lye 

ponds 

Cyperus tenax Boeck. var tenax RMH 2754 

Eleocharis acutangula (Roxb.) 

Annual in seasonal and RMH 2741 

Schult. 

permanent pools 

Eleocharis geniculata (L.) Roem. 

Annual in seasonal ponds RMH 2742 

& Schult. 

and streams 

Fimbristylis longiculmis Steud. Tufted perennial in ponds RMH 2737 

Fuirena clavisetta Poir. 

Perennial in open swamps’ RMH 2732 

edges. 

Fuirena ochreata Kunth. Common in swamps M - sr 

Fuirena umbellata Rottb. RMH 2729 

Cyperus lanceolata Poir. RMH 2733 

Cyperus mundtii (Nees) Kunth. Perrenial RMH 2730 

Rhynchospora candida (Nees) 

Boeck 

DIOSCAREACEAE 

Dioscorea sansibarensis Pax 

Mchochoni, Ndiga, 

Vikwa 

Wild yam, climber; new 


RMH 2740 

BN 4314 

FLAGELLARIACEAE 

Flagellaria guineensis Schum. Mkalamu, Mpelewa Climbing shrub M - sr 

GRAMINEAE – the grass family 

Imperata cylindrical (L.) Raeuschel Msufi wa bara, Worst perrenial in sr 

moto moto 

cultivated land 

Olyra latifolia L. Weed in damaged forest RMH 2665 

Oplismenus sp. 

SR 

Panicum brevifolium L. 

M – sr 

Panicum laticomum Nees RMH 2652 

Panicum parvifolium L. RMH 2753 

Panicum subflabellatum Stapf RMH 2738 

Paspalum vaginatum Sw. RMH 2736 

Pseudoechinolaena polystachya 

RMH 2726 

(Kunth.) Stapf 

Sacciolepis curvata (L.) Chase 

M – sr 

Schizachyrium rupestre (K. 

RMH 2755 

Schum.) Stapf 

Setaria megaphylla (Steud.) Th. 

FTEA 

Dur. & Schinz 

Stenotaphrum dimidiatum (L.) 

Brongn. 

Pemba grass 

Native of Pemba fodder, 

and effective cover in 

supprg weeds 

Vetiveria nigritiana (Benth.) Stapf Fragrants in scent making RMH –sr 

LILIACEAE 


Asparagus falcatus L. Kinywele Climber SR 

Chlorophytum sp. 

Dracaen deremensis Engl. 

Small shrub of high forest, 

also coral rag forest. New 

recordfor Pemba 

SR 

M – sr 

RHM 4363 

Dracaena laxissima Engl. Mpelwa Sarmentose shrub RHM 26 

Sansevieria conspicua N.E Br. Mkonge pori Succulent herb in coastal 

thicket 

SR 

MUSACEAE 

108

Ensete sp. near proboscideum 

(Oliv.) Cheesm = Musa acuminata 

colla 

ORCHIDACEAE – the orchids 

Acampe sp. 

Aerangis hologlottis (Schltr.) 

Schltr. 

Mgombatumbili 

Wild banana; endemic to 

Ngezi Forest; A vulnerable 

species 

BN 4362 

RMH - sr 

RMH 2787 

Aerangis kirkii (Reichb.f.) Schltr. RMH 2765 

Bulbophyllum sp. 

RMH – sr 

Calanthe sylvatica (Thou.) Lindley New record for Pemba RS 

Disperis johnstonii Rolfe Small terrestrial orchid. BN 4367 

New record for Pemba 

Eulophia s.p. BN 4333 

Nervilia umbrosa (Reichb.f.) 

Small terrestrial orchid BN 4335 

Schltr. 

Vanilla roscheri Reichb. Mvanila Liana SR 

Vanilla zanzibarensis Mvanila Leafless creeper with aerial SR 

roots clinging on tree stems, 

rocks, scattered hard elliptic 

leaves 

PALMAE 

Calamus deesratus G. Mann & H. Scipionum lour. Spiny climber. Cane for M – sr 

Wendl. (Its identity needs 

confirmation) prob. calamus 

walking sticks 

Chrysalidocarpus pembanus Moore Mpapindi Medium-sized palm tree. 

Endemic to Ngezi forest. A 

vulnerable species. 

BN 4387 

Elaeis guineensis Jacq. Mchikichi The oil palm (occurs wild) RMH 2662 

Phoenix reclinata Jacq. Mkindu The wild date palm RMH 2661 

Raphia farinifera (Gaertn) Hyland Mwale 

The Raffia palm; forms BN- fi 

[Raphia ruffia] 

stands in swamps 

PANDANACEAE 

Pandanus kirkii Rendle Msariaka The beach screw pine SR 

SMILACACEAE 

Smilax anceps Willd. 

Mkekewa Spiny climber SR 

[S.kraussiana] 

XYRIDACEAE 

Xyris anceps Lam. 

Small aquatic or swamp BN 4338 

species in Erica bush land 

ZINGIBERACEAE 

Aframomum angustifolium (Senn.) Matunguu Herb in moist sites RMH 2667 

K.Schum. 

Costus sarmentosus Bojer Vitunguu dume Herb RS 

109

Appendix 1b: Relative densities and relative frequency 

Transect No.1 Herbs 

Species name R.D R.F 

Adenia rumicifolia 2.31 3.57 

Antiaris toxicaria 5.78 1.79 

Artocarpus heterophyllus 0.58 1.79 

Barringtonia racemosa 2.89 1.79 

Blighia unijugata 1.16 3.57 

Bombax rhodognaphalon 0.58 1.79 

Chassalia umbraticola 1.16 3.57 

Cissus integrifolia 0.58 1.79 

Cremaspora triflora 1.73 3.57 

Culcasia orientalis 1.73 5.36 

Cyperus renschii 2.89 3.57 

Dioscorea sansibarensis 1.16 1.79 

Diospyros consolatae 1.16 1.79 

Elaeis farinifera 2.89 1.79 

Erythrophloeum suaveolens 0.58 1.79 

Flagellaria guineensis 1.73 3.57 

Garcinia livingstonei 2.89 1.79 

Landolfia kirkii 13.29 5.36 

Mangifera indica 1.73 3.57 

Olyra latifolia 0.58 1.79 

Oncinotis tenuiloba 0.58 1.79 

Polyscias fulva 0.58 1.79 

Polysphaeria parvifolia 0.58 1.79 

Pouteria brevipes 4.05 5.36 

Rawsonia lucida 6.36 3.57 

Smilax anceps 0.58 1.79 

Sorindeia madagascariensis 1.73 1.79 

Stenotaphrum dimidiatum 5.78 1.79 

Strophanhus engleri 3.47 1.79 

Tabernaemontana ventricosa 0.58 1.79 

Thelypteris totta 5.78 5.36 

Whitfieldia elongata 5.20 3.57 

Zammioculas zamiifolia 13.87 8.93 



Zammioculcas zamiifolia 47.31 19.23 



Adenia rumicifolia 5.38 3.85 

Sansevieria conspicua 5.38 3.85 

Phymatosarus scolopendria 5.38 3.85 


Calanthe sylvatica 2.15 3.85 

Haplocoelum inoploeum 2.15 7.69 


Terminalia boivinii 2.15 3.85 


Gonatopus boivinii 1.08 3.85 


Heinsia zanzibarica 1.08 3.85 

Culcasia orientalis 1.08 3.85 

Vernonia hildebrandtii 1.08 3.85 

Transect No.2 Shrubs 


Cremaspora triflora 14.89 10 

Pouteria brevipes 12.77 10 

Rawsonia lucida 12.77 10 

Cordia alliodora 10.64 5 

Costus tomentosus 8.51 5 

Salacia madagascariensis 6.38 5 

Erythrophloeum suaveolens 6.36 5 

Chassalia umbraticola 4.26 5 

Tabernaemontana ventricosa 4.26 5 

Tabebuia pentaphylla 4.26 5 

Dracaena laxissima 2.13 5 

Quassia undulate 2.13 5 

Tetracera littoralis 2.13 5 

Landolfia kirkii 2.13 5 

Whitfieldia elongate 2.13 5 

Antiaris toxicaria 2.13 5 

Citrus aurantifolia 2.13 5 

Transect No.3 Shrubs 


Heinsia zanzibarica 9.76 5.77 

Uvaria sp.nov. 9.76 5.77 


Salacia madagascariensis 7.32 7.69 


Tarenna pavettoides 4.88 1.92 


Psychotria sp. 3.66 1.92 

Leptactina platyphylla 3.66 1.92 


Pyrostria bibracteata 3.66 1.92 



Boureria petiolaris 2.44 1.92 

Tetracera littoralis 1.22 1.92 

110

Saba comorensis 1.22 1.92 


Annona senegalensis 1.22 1.92 

Rauvolfia mombasiana 1.22 1.92 


Cissus rotundifolia 1.22 1.92 

Ludia mauritiana 1.22 1.92 

Maytenus senegalensis 1.22 1.92 

Caesalpinia volkensii 1.22 1.92 

Grewia forbesii 1.22 1.92 

Strophanthus zimmermannii 1.22 1.92 

Dioscorea sansibarensis 1.22 1.92 

Rhoicissus sp. 1.22 1.92 

Keetia zanzibarica 1.22 1.92 

Flueggia virosa 1.22 1.92 





Asystasia gangetica 27.08 15 

Phymatosorus scolopendria 19.79 10 

Stenotaphrum dimidiatum 15.63 10 

Rawsonia lucida 15.63 5 

Terminalia boivinii 8.33 5 

Diospyros mespiliformis 2.08 5 

Sorindeia madagascariensis 2.08 5 

Sansevieria sp 1.04 5 

Cyphostemma sp 1.04 5 

Barringtonia racemosa 1.04 5 

Garcinia livingstonei 1.04 5 


Smilax anceps 1.04 5 

Sideroxylon inerme 1.04 5 

Kyllinga (Cyperus) sp. 1.04 5 



Phymatosorus scolopendria 44.19 21.43 

Nephrolepis biserrata 16.28 7.14 


Synaptolepis kirkii 6.98 14.29 




Sophora tomentosa 2.33 7.14 

Ochna thomasiana 2.33 7.14 

Asplenium sp. 2.33 7.14 


Transect no.4 Shrubs: Relative Density & Frequence 


Clerodendrum glabra 23.33 11.11 


Sophora tomentosa 8.33 5.56 

Terminalia cattapa 6.67 5.56 

Pandanus kirkii 5.00 5.56 

Afzelia quanzensis 5.00 5.56 


Pavetta sp. 3.33 5.56 

111


Allophylus pervillei 3.33 5.56 

Maytenus heterophylla 3.33 5.56 

Antidesma venosum 3.33 5.56 


Lantana camara 1.67 5.56 

Syzygium cuminii 3.33 5.56 

Boureria petiolaris 1.67 5.56 


Transect no.5 Herbs: Relative Density & Frequence 


Asystasia gangetica 22.22 10 


Ludia mauritiana 13.33 10 

Phymatosorus scolopendria 11.11 10 

Garcinia livingstonei 11.11 10 

Haplocoelum inoploeum 8.89 10 

Pandanus kirkii 6.67 10 

Zammioculcas zamiifolia 6.67 20 

Strychnos hemningsii 6.67 10 

Salacia madagascariensis 6.67 10 

Transect no.5 Shrubs: Relative Density & Frequence 




Mystroxylum aethiopicum 9.09 6.25 


Manilkara sansibarensis 6.06 6.25 

Suregada zanzibariensis 6.06 6.25 


Rhoicissus sp. 3.03 6.25 


Acridocarpus zanzibaricus 3.03 6.25 


Uvaria ssp.nov 3.03 6.25 

Keetia zanzibarica 3.03 6.25 

Cissus rotundifolia 3.03 6.25 

Cissus quadrangularis 3.03 6.25 

Grewia sp 3.03 6.25 

Transect no. 1 Plots 1 – 8: Trees Relative Density and Frequence 

Species Name RD RF 


Bombax rhodognaphalon 5.03 5.26 

Croton syslvatiens 1.07 3.94 

Chrysalidocarpus pembanus 23.02 5.26 

Alangium salviifoia 0.35 1.31 



Quassia undulata 8.27 5.26 

Elaeis guineensis 4.67 7.89 

Drypetes natalensis 0.71 1.31 


Tabernaemontana pachysiphon 0.71 2.63 

Milicia excelsa 1.43 3.94 


Uapaca guineensis 5.39 3.94 


112


Erythrophloeum suaveolens 4.31 3.94 

Vitex doniana 1.79 2.63 

Syzygium cordatum 4.31 1.31 

Raphia farinifera 0.71 1.31 

Parinari curattelifolia 0.35 1.31 



Tabernaemontana ventricosa 0.71 2.63 

Muivuivu 0.35 1.31 

Hibiscus tiliaceus 0.35 1.31 


Macaranga capensis 1.43 2.63 

Terminalia ivorensis 0.35 1.31 

Pouteria msolo 1,07 1.31 


Funtumia africana 0.35 1.31 

Lannea schweinfurthii 0.35 1.31 

Garcinia livingtonii 1.07 1.31 

Trema orientalis 0.71 1.31 

Transect no. 2 Plots 1 – 3: Trees Relative Density and Frequence 


Olea woodiana 1.78 3.33 

Terminalia ivorensis 4.46 3.33 



Antidesma venosum 0.89 3.33 

Terminalia catappa 1.78 3.33 

Tabebuia pentaphylla 1.78 3.33 




Alangium salviifolia 0.89 3.33 

Croton sylvaticus 0.89 3.33 



Cordia alliodora 38.39 6.66 

Tectona grandis 3.57 3.33 

Mangifera indica 0.89 3.33 





Tabernaemonta ventricosa 1.78 3.33 

Sorindera madagascariensis 0.89 3.33 

Cordia aliodora 4.46 3.33 

Cedrella mexicana 3.57 3.33 

T3 P1 


Bridelia micrantha 2.36 2.56 


Calophyllum inophyllum 3.14 5.12 

Syzygium cuminii 1.55 2.56 



Cussonia zimmermannii 14.57 5.12 


Erythrophloeum suavelens 3.93 5.12 


113




Bourreria petiolaris 0.78 2.56 



Croton sylvaticus 0.78 2.56 




Diosypyros consolatae 3.93 2.56 

Adansonia digitata 1.57 2.56 

Voacanga africana 0.78 2.56 

Ficus lutea 0.78 2.56 


Manilkara sulcata 1.57 2.56 

T5P1 Dry coastal forest on sandy soils 




Casuarina equisetifolia 2.96 3.92 

Sideroxylon inerme 12.59 5.88 

Mwingajini 0.74 1.96 




Pndanus kirikii 3.70 1.96 



Bourreria petiolaris 0.74 1.96 


Psychotria sp. 5.92 3.92 

Drypetes natalensis 3.70 3.92 




Brexia madagascariensis 0.74 1.96 

Vitex doniana 0.74 1.96 



Olea woodiana 1.48 3.92 

Sp.x 0.74 1.96 

Ficus scasselatii 1.48 3.92 



Vitex ferruginea 0.74 1.96 

Casearia gladiiformis 2.96 3.92 

Pandus kirikii 0.74 1.96 

Maytenus senegalensis 0.74 1.96 

T6 P1 Chokaani 


Voacanga africana 4.0 11.11 




Adansonia digitata 4.0 5.55 

Bourreria petilaris 4.0 11.11 

Manilkara sulcata 2.0 5.55 

Cussonia zimmermannii 6.0 11.11 

114



Pandanus kirkii 2.0 5.55 

Allophylus pervillei 4.0 5.55 


115

Appendix 2: Reported plant species and their main uses in the studied villages around Ngezi forest, Pemba 

S/N Local name Scientific name 

Timber proeuction 

Fooe eg juice, fruits 

FREQUENCY OF USE 

Buileing materials 

Fuel wooe 

medicine 

hanecrafts e.g baskets, mikeka 

na makawa 

construction of fishing vessels 

fruit 

FREQUENCY OF TISSUE USED 

1 Mbambakofi 

Afzelia quanzensis 

38 4 2 54 0 0 4 2 54 0 1 34 0 

2 Mbungo Saba comorensis 1 59 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 

3 Mbugu 

4 Mchekundu 0 0 3 1 1 0 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 

5 Mchenza mwitu Kapaca guineensis 10 3 6 30 2 1 0 2 25 0 3 21 1 

6 Mchi 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 

7 Mchikichi 4 4 32 2 1 3 1 0 7 1 22 13 4 

8 Mchocha 9 22 10 42 1 4 3 26 42 1 1 31 2 

9 Mchongoma Flocourtia indica 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 

10 Mdalidali 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 

11 Mdamdam Harungana madagasariensis 1 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 2 0 

12 Mfenesi Artocarpus hetorophyllus 45 58 1 24 0 0 3 58 55 0 2 20 0 

13 Mfuu Vitex doniana 17 8 2 19 0 0 0 9 20 0 0 6 2 

14 Mgomba tumbili Musa acuminata 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 

15 Mgulele Antiaris toxicaria 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 1 0 

16 Mibale 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 

17 Mibungo 0 12 1 0 1 0 0 70 4 0 0 0 2 

18 Mibura Pasinani curatellifolia 0 3 2 9 2 0 0 3 9 2 0 3 0 

19 Mikali 1 4 0 1 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 

20 Mikanja Cremaspora trifolia 1 1 17 21 4 0 0 1 37 1 1 21 0 

21 Mipo 2 19 0 0 0 0 0 16 3 0 0 0 1 

stem 

roots 

leaves 

branches 

seeds 

116







Fuel wooe 

medicine 

hanecrafts e.g baskets, 

mikeka na makawa 

construction of fishing 

vessels 

fruit 

stem 

roots 

leaves 

branches 

seeds 

22 Mivinje 

Casuarina equisetifolia 

2 0 6 11 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 

23 Mjafari Drypetes natalensis 0 0 0 0 62 0 1 1 1 2 0 1 0 

24 Mkandaa 3 1 13 53 5 0 0 2 66 0 2 40 1 

25 Mkarati Bridelia micrantha 23 1 1 22 0 0 2 1 29 0 0 8 0 

26 Mkindu 0 0 9 0 0 63 0 1 2 1 70 2 0 

27 Mkoko 0 0 1 2 4 0 0 2 5 1 1 1 0 

28 Mkorosho Anacardium occidentales 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 

29 Mkungu Terminalia catappa 45 41 4 50 0 1 1 42 59 0 1 28 1 

30 Mkuu kilemba 5 0 5 21 0 0 0 0 14 0 0 16 0 

31 Mkwamba Margaritaria discoidea 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 

32 Mlimau Citrus limonn 0 2 0 4 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 2 0 

33 Mnamia maji 0 0 0 1 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 

34 Mnanasi mwitu 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 

35 Mninga Pterocarpus angolensis 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 

36 Mnyungwa-tambuu 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 

37 Mpera Mwitu Racosonia indica 0 4 0 5 1 0 0 4 4 0 1 3 0 

38 Mpilipili Lorindeia madagascariensis 0 1 0 6 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 

39 Mpopoo 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 

40 Mranga makele 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 

41 Msaji Tectona grandis 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 

42 Msasa Ficus exasperata 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 

43 Mshubili-mwitu 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 0 7 1 1 0 

44 Msikundazi 2 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 

45 Msinduzi Croton sylvaticus 0 0 0 2 78 0 0 0 75 38 1 0 0 

117







Fuel wooe 

medicine 

hanecrafts e.g baskets, 

mikeka na makawa 

construction of fishing 

vessels 

fruit 

stem 

roots 

leaves 

branches 

seeds 

46 Msisi Tiliacora funifera 11 1 0 15 1 0 0 0 14 0 2 11 0 

47 Msoo Scutia myntina 4 1 1 0 37 0 1 0 0 38 0 0 0 

48 Msufi Ceiba petandra 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 

49 Mtanda-kaanga 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 

50 Mti maziwa 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 

51 Mtondoo Calophyllum inophyllum 37 0 3 29 0 0 8 2 40 0 0 20 2 

52 Mtonga Funtumia africana 21 4 1 38 36 0 0 45 31 1 1 37 3 

53 Mtoria 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 

54 Muale Raphia faninifera 0 0 6 2 0 8 1 0 5 0 9 3 0 

55 Muhina-mwitu 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 

56 Muivuivu 0 0 1 3 0 1 0 1 5 0 0 1 0 

57 Muuje Strychnos angolensis 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 

58 Mvinje Casuarina equisitifolia 2 0 1 0 1 0 0 

59 Mvule Milicia excelsa 42 0 0 16 0 0 0 5 41 0 0 9 1 

60 Mvunja shoka Dicrostachys cinerea 1 1 0 3 3 0 0 0 5 0 2 1 0 

61 Mwambo 2 2 2 5 0 0 0 2 8 0 0 4 0 

62 Mwarobaini Azadarachta indica 2 0 0 5 32 0 0 0 41 12 14 6 1 

63 Mwavi 41 1 0 40 1 0 0 1 42 0 0 28 0 

64 Mwembe Mangifera indica 322 572 4 1263 147 251 414 87 77 0 1 40 2 

65 Mwembe mwitu 7 2 10 17 0 0 1 1 20 0 1 9 2 

66 Mwezi upande 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 

67 Mzambarau Sygygium cuminii 46 48 1 67 0 0 2 54 70 0 4 31 3 

68 Mzambarau samli 3 8 0 6 2 0 0 5 8 0 0 7 0 

69 mziwaziwa Euphobia hirta 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 

70 Ndaamba 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 

118

Appendix 3: A checklist of mammals recorded at Ngezi forest reserve and the 

surroundings, Pemba 


Common name 

Previous 

records 

Present 

study 

Status 

Soricidae 

Crocidura 

fuscomurina 

Crocidura sp. 

Zanzibar Tiny Musk 

Shrew x - 

x 

Pteropodidae 

Eidolon helvum Straw-coloured Fruit Bat x - 

Epomophorus 

wahlbergi 

Wahlberg's Epauletted 

Fruit Bat x - 

Pteropus voeltzkowi Pemba Flying Fox x x Endemic 

Rousettus aegyptiacus Egyptian Fruit Bat x x 

Emballonuridae 

Coleura afra African Sheath-tailed Bat x - 

Hipposideridae 

Hipposideros 

commersoni 

Giant African Leaf-nosed 

Bat x x 

Hipposideros rubber Noack's Leaf-nosed Bat x x 

Molossidae 

Chaerephon pumila Little Free-tailed Bat x - 

Mops brachypterus Peter's Free-tailed Bat x - 

Chaerephon limbatus 

x 

Nycteridae 

Nycteris grandis Large Slit-faced Bat x - 

Rhinolophidae 

Rhinolophus 

hildebrandti eloguens 

Decken's Horseshoe 

Rhinolophus deckeni Bat??? 

Rhinolophus swinnyi Swinny's Horseshoe Bat 

x 

x 

x 

Vespertilionidae 

Pipistrellus nanus Banana Bat x - 

Scotophilus dinganii African Yellow House Bat x x 

Cercopithecidae 

Cercopithecus 

aethiops Pemba green monkey x x 

119


Cercopithecidae 

Common name 

Previous 

records 

Present 

study 

Status 

Otolemur garnettii 

Small-eared Greater 

Galago x x 

Colobus badius kirkii Zanzibar red colobus x x Introduced 

Herpestidae 

Atilax paludinosus Marsh (Water) Mongoose x x 

Viverridae 

Viverricula indica Small Indian Civet x - 

Mustelidae 

Aonyx capensis Cape Clawless Otter - x 

Procaviidae 

Dendrohyrax validus East African Tree Hyrax x x 

Bovidae 

Cephalophus harveyi 

Harvey's (Red Forest) 

Duiker 

Cephalophus 

monticola Blue Duiker x x 

Sus scrofa Wild Boar x - 

x 

Introduced 

species 

New record 

for Pemba 

D. v. 

neumanni 

endemic to 

Z,P 

C. monticola 

pembae 

endemic to P 

Introduced 

Feral animals 

reported to 

breed 

Muridae 

Mus musculus Common House Mouse x - Introduced 

Rattus rattus Black Rat x x Introduced 

120

Appendix 4: A checklist of birds recorded at Ngezi Forest Reserve and the surroundings, 

Pemba Island. Legend: Vag. = Vagarant species, M. = Migratory species (based on 

Pakenham, 1979), x = presence, - = not recorded during the survey. 

Family/Species Common name Previuos Present Status 

record study 

SULIDAE 

Morus capensis Cape Gannet x - Vag 

PHALACROCORACIDAE 

Phalacrocorax africanus Long-tailed Cormorant x x Vag 

Previous 

Common name 


records Present study Status 

ARDEIDAE 

Ixobrychus minutus Little Bittern x - 

Gorsachius leuconotus White-backed Night Heron x - M 

Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron x - M 

Ardeola idea Madagascar Squacco Heron x - Vag 

Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret x x 

Butorides striatus Green-backed Heron x - 

Egretta alba Great White Egret x - 

Ardea purpurea Purple Heron x x 

Ardea cinerea Grey Heron x x 

Ardea melanocephala Black-headed Heron x x 

CICONIIDAE 

Anastomus lamelligeus Open-billed Stork x Vag 

Ciconia episcopus Woolly-necked Stork x - 

THRESKIORNITHIDAE 

Bostrychia hagedash Hadada Ibis x x 

PHOENICOPTERIDAE 

Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo x - Vag 

ANATIDAE 

Dendrocygna viduata 

White-faced Whistling 

Duck x x Vag 

Thalassornis leuconotus White-backed Duck x - 

Nettapus auritus Pygmy Goose x x 

ACCIPITRIDAE 

Macheiramphus alcinus Bat Hawk x - 

Elanus caeruleus 

Black-shouldered Kite 

Milvus migrans Black Kite (y billed) x - 

Haliaeetus vocifer Fish Eagle x - 

Gypohierax angolensis Palm-nut Vulture x x 

Polyboroides radiatus Gymnogene x x 

Circus aeruginosus Eurasian Marsh Harrier x x Vag 

Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier x - Vag 

Circus pygargus Montagu's Harrier x - Vag 

Accipiter melanoleucus Great Sparrowhawk x - 

121

Accipiter tachiro African Goshawk x x 

PANDIONIDAE 

Pandion haliaetus Osprey x - M 

FALCONIDAE 

Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel x - Vag 

Falco tinnunculus Common Kestrel x - 

Previous 

Common name 



Falco dickinsoni Dickinson's Kestrel x x Endemic 

Falco amurensis Amur Falcon x - Vag 

PHASIANIDAE 

Coturnix delegorguei Harlequin Quail x - Vag 

Coturnix adansonii Blue Quail x - 

NUMIDIDAE 

Numida meleagris Helmeted Guineafowl x x 

TURNICIDAE 

Turnix sylvatica Common Button-quail x - 

RALLIDAE 

Sarothrura elegans Buff-spotted Flufftail x - 

Sarothrura rufa Red-chested Flufftail x - 

Amaurornis flavirostra Black Crake x x 

Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen x x 

JACANIDAE 

Actophilornis africanus Jacana x x 

ROSTRATULIDAE 

Rostratula benghalensis Painted Snipe x - Vag 

HAEMATOPODIDAE 

Haematopus ostralegus Euasian Oystercatcher x - M 

DROMADIDAE 

Dromas ardeola Crab-plover x - M 

BURHINIDAE 

Burhinus vermiculatus Water Thicknee x x 

CHARADRIIDAE 

Charadrius hiaticula Ringed Plover x - M 

Charadrius leschenaultii Greater Sandplover x - M 

Pluvialis squatorola Grey Plover x - M 

122

Vanellus lugubris 

SCOLOPACIDAE 

Senegal Plover 

Gallinago media Great Snipe x - M 

Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel x - M 

Previous 

Common name 



Numenius arquata Eurasian Curlew x - M 

Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank x - M 

Tringa ochropus Green Sandpiper x - M 

Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper x - M 

Xenus cinereus Terek Sandpiper x - M 

Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper x - M 

Arenaria interpres Turnstone x - M 

Calidris alba Sanderling x - M 

Calidris minuta Little Stint x - M 

Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper x - M 

LARIDAE 

Larus hemprichii Sooty Gull x x M 

Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull x M 

Sterna bergii Greater Crested Tern x x Vag 

Sterna bengalensis Lesser Crested Tern x -- M 

Sterna dougallii Roseate Tern x - Vag 

Sterna fuscata Sooty Tern x - Vag 

COLUMBIDAE 

Streptopelia semitorquata Red-eyed Dove x x 

Turtur chalcospilos 

Emerald-spotted Wood 

Dove x x 

Turtur afer Blue-spotted Wood Dove x - 

Turtur tympanistria Tambourine Dove x x 

Treron pembaensis Pemba Green Pigeon x x 

PSITTACIDAE 

Poicephalus cryptoxanthus Brown-headed Parrot x x 

CUCULIDAE 

Chrysococcyx caprius Didric Cuckoo x x 

Ceuthmochares aereus Yellowbill x 

Centropus superciliosus White-browed Coucal x x 

TYTONIDAE 

Tyto alba Barn Owl x x 

STRIGIDAE 

Otus pembae Pemba scops Owl x x 

CAPRIMULGIDAE 

Caprimulgus fossii Gabon Nightjar x x 

123

APODIDAE 

Cypsiurus parvus Palm Swift x x 

Apus affinis Little Swift x x 

Common name 

Previous 



ALCEDINIDAE 

Corythornis cristata Malachite Kingfisher x x 

Ceyx picta Pygmy Kingfisher x x 

Halcyon leucocephala Chestnut-bellied Kingfisher x - Vag 

Halcyon senegaloides Mangrove Kingfisher x x 

Ceryle rudis Pied Kingfisher x x 

MEROPIDAE 

Merops superciliosus Madagascar Bee-eater x - 

Merops persicus Blue-cheeked Bee-eater x x M 

CORACIIDAE 

Coracias caudata Lilac-breasted Roller x - 

Eurystomus glacurus Broad-billed Roller x x M 

UPUPIDAE 

Upupa africana African Hoopoe x - M 

BUCEROTIDAE 

Tockus alboterminatus Crowned Hornbill x x 

HIRUNDINIDAE 

Phedina borbonica Mascarene Martin x - vag 

Hirundo abyssinica Lesser Striped Swallow x x 

Hirundo smithii Wire-tailed Swallow x x 

MOTACILLIDAE 

Motacilla flava Yellow Wagtail x - M 

Motacilla aguimp African Pied Wagtail x x Vag 

Anthus cinnamomeus African Pipit x x 

TURDIDAE 

Oenanthe isabellina Isabelline Wheatear x - Vag 

SYLVIIDAE 

Acrocephalus arundinaceus Great Reed Warbler x - Vag 

Acrocephalus Boeticatus African Reed Warbler x - 

Acrocephalus gracilirostris Lesser Swamp Warbler x - 

Acrocephalus rufescens Greater Swamp Warbler x - 

Cisticola juncidis Zitting Cisticola x - 

124


MUSCICAPIDAE 

Common name 

Previous 


Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher x x M 

Terpsiphone viridis Paradise Flycatcher x x 

TIMALIIDAE 

Trichastoma rufipennis Pale-breasted Illadopsis x - 

NECTARINIIDAE 

Nectarinia olivacea Olive Sunbird x x 

Nectarinia senegalensis Scarlet-chested Sunbird x x 

Nectarinia pembae Pemba Sunbird x x 

ZOSTEROPIDAE 

Zosterops vaughani Pemba White-eye x x Endemic 

ORIOLIDAE 

Oriolus oriolus Golden Oriole x - M 

Oriolus larvatus Black-headed Oriole x x M 

LANIIDAE 

Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike x - M 

DICRURIDAE 

Dicrurus adsimilis Fork-tailed Drongo x x 

CORVIDAE 

Corvus albus Pied Crow x x 

STURNIDAE 

Cinnyricinclus leucogaster Violet-backed Starling - x 

Black-breasted Glossy 

Lamprotornis corruscus Starling x x 

PLOCEIDAE 

New 

record 

Passer griseus Grey-headed Sparrow x - 

Euplectes hordeaceus Black-winged Red Bishop x - 

Anomalospiza imberbis Parasitic Weaver x - 

Ambylospiza albifrons Grosbeak Weaver x - 

ESTRILDIDAE 

Mandingoa nitidula Green-backed Twinspot x - 

Amandava subflava Zebra Waxbill x - 

Lonchura cucullata Bronze Mannikin x x 

Previous 

Common name 



125

Lonchura bicolor Black & White Mannikin x x 

Lonchura fringilloides Magpie Mannikin - 

Lonchura oryzivora Java Sparrow x - 

126

Appendix 5: A checklist of reptiles recorded at Ngezi Forest Reserve and the 


Previuo Presen 

Species 

Common name 

s t Status 

records study 

Cheloniidae 

Chelonia mydas Green Turtle x - 

Eretmochelys imbricata Hawksbill Turtle x - 

Dermochelyidae 

Dermochelys coriacea Leatherback Turtle x - 

Pelomudusidae 

Pelusios castanoides 

Yellow-bellied Hinged 

Terrapin x x 

Gekkonidae 

Hemidactylus mabouia Tropical House Gecko x x 

Hemidactylus platycephalus Tree Gecko x - 

Lygodactylus capensis Cape Dwarf Gecko x x 

Lygodactylus viscatus Copal Dwarf Gecko x x 

Phelsuma abbotti Pemba Day Gecko x x Endemic 

Scincidae 

Cryptoblepharus boutonii Coral Rag Skink x x 

Lygosoma pembanum 

Pemba Island Writhing 

Skink x x Endemic 

Mabuya albotaeniata Pemba Island Skink x x Endemic 

Mabuya striata Striped Skink x x 

Panaspis sp. Lizard x New record 

Chamaeleonidae 

Chamaeleo dilepis Flap-necked Chameleon x - 

Typhlopidae 

Ramphotyphlops braminus Flower-pot Blind Snake x - 

Rhinotyphlops pallidus Zanzibar Blind Snake x - 

Leptotyphlopidae 

Leptotyphlops pembae Pemba Worm Snake x x Endemic 

Leptotyphlops emini Emin Pasha's Worm Snake x - 

Colubridae 

Dispholidus typus Boomslang x x 

Lamprophis fuliginosus Brown House Snake x x 

Lycophidion pembanum Pemba Wolf Snake x - Endemic 

Natriciteres pembana Pemba Marsh Snake x x Endemic 

Philothamnus 

semivariegatus Spotted Bush Snake x x 

Elapidae 

Naja mossambica Mozambique Spitting Cobra x x 

127

Appendix 6: A checklist of amphibians recorded at Ngezi forest reserve and the 


Previuos Present Status 

Species Common Name records study 

ARTHROLEPTIDAE 

Schoutedenella xenodactyloides - x 

New 

record 

BUFONIDAE 

Bufo gutturalis Guttural toad x x 

HYPEROLIIDAE 

Afrixalus fornasini 

Fornasini's spiny reed 

frog x x 

Hyperolius sp. - x 

RANIDAE 

Galam white-lipped 

Amnirana galamensis frog x x 

East African puddle 

Phrynobatrachus acridoides frog x - 

New 

record 

Phrynobatrachus sp 

"pakenhami"? x x Endemic 

Ptychadena anchietae Anchieta's ridged frog x x 

Ptychadena sp. x - 

128

Appendix 7a: Marine fish recorded in nine villages around Ngezi forest (4 th January to 

12 th January 2005) 

FAO Name Family Scientific name 

Baelama Anchovy Engraulidae Thryssa baelama 

Barlai flathead Platycephalidae Platycephalus insidiator 

Barracuda Sphyraenidae Sphyraena jello 

Big eye Priacanthidae Priacanthus hamrur 

Big eye trevally Carangidae Caranx sexfasciatus 

Black edged conger Congridae Conger cinereus cinereus 

Black Marlin Istiophoridae Makaira indica 

Blotch eye Soldier fish Holocentridae Myrpristis murdjan 

Blue fin trevally Carangidae Caranx melampygus 

Blue & Gold fusilier Caesionidae Caesio caerulaureus 

Sharp tooth Cardinal Apogonidae 

Cheilodipterus 

quinqueilineatus 

Stripped eel Catfish Plotosidae Plotosus lineatus 

Cigar wrasse Labridae Cheilio inermis 

Common dolphin Coryphaenidae Coryphaena hippurus 

Cow fish Ostraciidae Lactoria cornuta 

Croakers Scianidae Johnnius dussumieri 


Daisy parrotfish Scaridae Scarus sordidus 

Dash dot got fish Mullidae Parupeneus barberinus 

Devis anchovy Engraulidae Stelephorus indicus 

Spotted Eagle Ray Myliobatidae Aetobatus narinari 

Variegated Emperor Lethrinidae Lethrinus variegatus 

Flora moray Muraenidae Echidna nebulosa 

Frigate tuna Scombridae Auxis thazard 

Butterfly Goby Gobiidae Amblygobius albimaculatus 

Golden cardinal Apogonidae Apogon aureus 

Great barracuda Sphyraenidae Sphyraena barracuda 

Grouper 

Serranidae 

Cephalopholis miniata 

Halfbeak Hemiramphidae Hemiraphus far 

Half-moon triger fish Monacanthidae Cantherhines melanopterus 

Hamphead wrasse Labridae Cheillinus undulatus 

Hound needle 

Belonidae 

Tylosurus crodilus 

crocodiuse 

Indian Mackerel Scombridae Rastreliger kanagurta 

Jackfish Carangidae Seriola revoliana 

Cutlassfish Trichiuridae Trichiurus lepturus 

Leopard flounder Bothidae Bothus pantherinus 

129

Lobster Palinuridae Palinurus delagoae 

Lobster Palinuridae Panulirus homarus 

Lemon shark Carcharhinidae Negaprion acutidens 

Mackerel/Kawakawa Scombridae Euthynnus affinis 

Mangrove Red snapper Lutjanidae Lutjanus argentimaculatus 

Manta Ray Mobulidae Manta birostris 

Sailfish Istiophoridae Istiophorus platypterus 

Moorish Idol Zanclidae Zanclus canescens 

Flathead Mullet Mugilidae Mugil cephalus 

Blue spot Mullets Mugilidae Valamugil seheli 

Octopus Octopodidae Octopus macropus 

Queen coris Labriidae Coris formosa 

Queen fish Carangidae Scomberoides tol 

Rabbit fish Siganidae Siganus sutor 

Red cornet fish Fistulariidae Fistularia petimba 

Reef shark Carcharhinidae Triaenodon obesus 

Round herring Clupeidae Spratelloides gracilis 


Sail fin Flying fish 

Exocoetidae 

Parexocoetus brachypterus 

brachypterus 

Sardines Clupeidae Sardinella gibbosa 

Sea grass parrot fish Scaridae Leptoscarus vaigiensis 

Sea turtle Cheloniidae curetta curetta 

Shrimps Hippolytidae Exhippolysmata ensirostris 

Sickle fish Drepanidae Drepane punctata 

Siderial moray Muraenidae Siderea picta 

Silver biddy Gerreidae Gerres oyena 

Silver moony Monodactylidae Monodactylus argenteus 

Skipjack Scombridae Katsuwonus pelamis 

Blue emperor Lethrinidae Lethinus nebulosus 

Squids Loliginidae Loligo duvaucelli 

Squids Sepiidae Sepia pharaonis 

Sting ray Dasyatidae Himantura uarnak 

Stone fish Synanceiinae Synanceia verrucosa 

Sulfur goatfish Mullidae Upenaus sulphureus 

Surgeonfish Acanthuridae Ctenochaetus striatus 

Sweeper Pempheridae Pempheris mangula 

Terrapins Teraponidae Terapon jarbua 

Thin tail Thresher shark Alopiidae Alopias vulpinus 

Black spot emperor Lethinidae Lethrinus harak 

Tooth pony Leognathidae Gazza minuta 

130

Black bar Trigger fish Balistidae Rhinecanthus aculeatus 

Tropical Halfbeak Hemirhaphidae Hyporhamphus affinis 

Turkey moray Muraenidae Gmnothorax meleagris 

Unicorn fish Acanthuridae Nasso brevirostris 

Vagabond butterfly fish Chaetodontidae Chaetodon vegabundus 

Wahoo fish Scombridae Acathocybium solandri 

White spot grouper 

Serranidae 

Epinephelus 

caeruleopunctatus 

Yellow fin tuna Scombridae Thunnus albacares 

Appendix 7b: Freshwater fishes around Ngezi forest 


African Catfish Clariidae Clarias gariepinus 

Bonefish Albulidae Albula vulpes 

Fresh water eel Anguilidae Anguilla bicolor bicolor 

Sleepers Gobiidae Eleostris fusca 

Ladyfish Elopidae Elops machnata 

131

Appendix 8a: Butterflies sampled in six transects in Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Species / Transect T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 Total 

Family Acraeidae 

Acraea egina pembanus 

Kielland 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 

Acraea encedon Linnaeus 1 5 0 0 0 3 9 

Acraea natalica Boisduval 6 1 0 1 0 0 8 

Acraea pseudolycia Butler 2 0 1 0 0 9 12 

Family Danaidae 

Amauris niavius dominicus 

Linnaeus 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 

Danaus chrysippus Linnaeus 0 2 0 0 0 0 2 

Family Hesperiidae 

Spialia diomus Hopffer 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 

Family Lycaenidae 

Leptotes sp. 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 

Zizeeria knysna Trimen 3 5 0 1 1 0 10 

Family Nymphalidae 

Bebearia orientis insularis 


Byblia anvatara acheloia 

Boisduval 1 0 0 0 0 2 3 

Charaxes varanes vologeses 

Mabille 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 

Charaxes jahlusa Trimen 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 

Cymothoe coranus Grose-Smith 4 0 1 9 9 0 23 

Euphaedra neophron rydoni 

Howarth 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 

Eurytela dryope Cramer 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 

Euxanthe wakefieldi Ward 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 

Hypolimnas misippus Linnaeus 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 

Junonia oenone oenone 

Linnaeus 0 5 0 0 0 7 12 

Lachnoptera iole ayresi Trimen 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 

Phalanta phalanta aethiopica 

(Rothschild and Jordan) 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 

Pseudacraea boisduvali pemba 


Pseudacraea lucretia Cramer 1 0 0 0 0 3 4 

132

Family Papilionidae 

Papilio demodocus Esper 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 

Species / Transect T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 Total 

Princeps dardanus Brown 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 

Family Pieridae 

Belenois thysa Hopffer 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 

Catopsilia florellaFabricius 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 

Colotis evippe Linnaeus 0 0 0 3 0 0 3 

Eurema brigitta Cramer 2 0 0 1 0 0 3 

Eurema hapale Mabille 7 0 0 4 2 0 13 

Family Satyridae 

Bicyclus anynana anynana 

Butler 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 

Bicyclus campinus Aurivillius 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 

Melanitis leda africana 

Fruhstorfer 0 0 2 1 1 0 4 

Ypthima rhodesiana Carcasson 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 

Ypthima sp. 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 

Total 30 21 5 23 22 35 136 

Appendix 8b: Moths sampled in six transects in Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Family / Transect T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 Total 

Arctiidae 12 6 0 4 7 20 49 

Gelechiidae 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 

Geometridae 4 9 4 5 5 5 32 

Lasiocampidae 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 

Noctuidae 31 13 9 4 2 10 69 

Oecophoridae 0 0 0 0 2 1 3 

Psychidae 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 

Pterophoridae 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 

Pyralidae 1 0 0 0 0 10 11 

Sphingidae 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 

Tineidae 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 

Tortricidae 1 3 2 6 1 1 14 

Zygaenidae 0 1 0 6 0 1 8 

Total 53 32 16 26 19 49 195 

133

Appendix 8c: Odonata sampled in six transects in Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Species T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 Total 

Family Calopterygidae 

Phaon sp. 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 

Family Coenagrionidae 

Enallagna sp. 4 17 10 4 4 2 41 

Pseudagrion sp. 1 2 0 0 0 1 4 

Family Libellulidae 

Notiothermis jonesi 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 

Orthetrum julia 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 

Palpopleura lucia 9 1 0 2 0 21 33 

Tetrathermis sp. 0 1 0 0 0 4 5 

Trithermis annulata 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 

Zygonyx sp. 3 2 22 6 1 5 39 

Unidentified Libellulidae 2 5 2 2 2 7 20 

Total 22 29 34 14 7 40 146 

134

Appendix 9a: Checklist of Lepidoptera (butterflies and Moths) from Ngezi Forest 

Reserve, Pemba (Key: * = First record in Pemba, ** = Endemic to Pemba, *** = 

Endemic to Pemba and Zanzibar, f = forest-dependent species). 

ORDER LEPIDOPTERA 

Family Acraeidae 

Acraea egina pembanus Kielland*** 

Acraea encedon Linnaeus* 

Acraea natalica Boisduval 

Acraea pseudolycia Butler* 

Family Danaidae 

Amauris niavius dominicus Linnaeus f 

Danaus chrysippus Linnaeus 

Family Hesperiidae 

Spialia diomus Hopffer* 

Family Lycaenidae 

Leptotes sp. 

Zizeeria knysna Trimen* 

Family Nymphalidae 

Bebearia orientis insularis Kielland** f 

Byblia anvatara acheloia Boisduval* 

Charaxes varanes vologeses Mabille* 

Charaxes jahlusa Trimen f 

Cymothoe coranus Grose-Smith f 

Euphaedra neophron rydoni Howarth** ,f 

Eurytela dryope Cramer f 

Euxanthe wakefieldi Ward 

Hypolimnas misippus Linnaeus 

Junonia oenone oenone Linnaeus* 

Lachnoptera iole ayresi Trimen f 

Phalanta phalanta aethiopica (Rothschild and Jordan) 

Pseudacraea boisduvali pemba Kielland** f 

Pseudacraea lucretia Cramer f 

Family Papilionidae 

Papilio demodocus Esper 

Princeps dardanus Brown f 

Family Pieridae 

Belenois thysa Hopffer 

Catopsilia florella Fabricius 

Colotis evippe Linnaeus 

Eurema brigitta Cramer 

Eurema hapale Mabille* 

Family Satyridae 

Bicyclus anynana anynana Butler* f 

Bicyclus campinus Aurivillius* f 

Melanitis leda africana Fruhstorfer 

Ypthima rhodesiana Carcasson* 

Ypthima sp. 

135

Appendic 9b: Checklist of Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) sampled from Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Family Calopterygidae 

Phaon sp. 

Family Coenagrionidae 

Enallagna sp. 

Pseudagrion sp. 

Family Libellulidae 

Notiothermis jonesi 

Orthetrum julia 

Palpopleura lucia 

Tetrathermis sp. 

Trithermis annulata 

Zygonyx sp. 

Unidentified Libellulidae 

Appendix 9c: Reported use of some animals and birds from Ngezi forest, Pemba 

Local name English name Scientific name Use 

Bata maji Ducks Food 

Popo wa Pemba Pemba flying fox Pteropus voeltzkowi Food 

Popo Bats Food 

Chechele 

Grey headed Paradise Terpsiphone viridis 

Flycatcher 

plumbeiceps 

Food 

Chechele 

Red winged Paradise Terpsiphone viridis 

Flycatcher 

ungujaensis 

Food 

Chekea mwezi 

none 

Chonjwe 

Marsh mongoose Atilax paludinosus 

rubescens 

Food 

Chore 

Broad-billed Roller 

Food and 

Eurystomus glaucurus 

Medicine 

Chozi Sunbird Food 

Fufu 

White browed coucal Centropus 

superciliousus Food 

Kanga mwitu Guinea fowl Food 

Kifaumu 

Food 

Kima Monkey none 

Kimapunju Zanzibar red colobus Colobus badius kirkii Food 

Kipanga Kite none 

Kisharifu 

none 

Kituitui 

none 

Kobe Brown terrapin Pelusios cataneus none 

Koho/Bata Palm nut vulture 

Gypohierax angolensis 

mchikichi 

Food 

Komba Greater bushbaby Otolemur garnettii Food 

136

Kong'ho 

Food 

Korongo 

Food 

Kuku ziwa Little grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis Food 

Kunguru Pied crow Food 

Kwarara Hadada ibis Bostrychia hagedash Food 

Kwau 

Brown headed parrot Poicephalus 

cryptoxonthus Food 

Kwembe Crowned Hornbill Tockus alboterminatus Food 

Manja Pemba white eye Zosterops vaughani Food 

Miramba Starling Food 

Ngawa Javan Civet Viverricula indica Food 

Nguruwe Wild boar Sus scrofa Food 

Ninga Green pigeon Treron pembaensis Food 

Njiwa Pigeon Food 

Nyoka Snake none 

Paa/chesi 

Pemba blue Duiker Cephalophus monticola 

pembae 

Food 

Panya Rat none 

Pelele 

Zanzibar tree Hyrax Dendrohyrax validus Food and 

neumanni 

Medicine 

Pugi Tambourine dove Turtur tymphanistria Food 

Salile 

Food 

Local name English name Scientific name Use 

Sauti 

Food 

Sorohombi 

Food 

Tumbili 

Pemba Vervet monkey 

Food and 

Cercopithscus aethiops 

Medicine 

Vihodi Pemba scops owl Otus pembae Food 

Vijimbi Msitu Mangrove kingfisher Halcyon senegaloides Food 

137

serikali ya mapinduzi zanzibar care tanzania and department

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

Delete template?

Save as template?