Palms and bamboos of Tanzania: Ecological, conservation and utilization structure

Tanzania hosts a rich diversity of palms, bamboos and other woody species that are pivotal for ecosystem functioning, carbon sequestration and rural livelihoods. This study provides a comprehensive characterization of Tanzania’s palms and bamboo, integrating growth forms, ecological distributions and utilization patterns using the updated National Forestry Resources Monitoring and Assessment species list and field inventory data collected between 2015 and 2023. The revised dataset strengthens the foundation for national forest monitoring under the Measurement, Reporting, and Verification framework of the National Carbon Monitoring Centre, supporting transparent and robust carbon accounting aligned with the reduced emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, plus the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries (REDD+) policy objectives. By combining extensive field surveys with modern monitoring approaches, this research not only identifies species-specific ecological requirements and conservation priorities but also informs sustainable management strategies, value chain development and climate mitigation planning. The updated species inventory establishes a critical baseline for long-term forest monitoring, providing a replicable model for tropical countries seeking to balance biodiversity conservation, carbon sequestration and socio-economic development.