Western Tanzania’s miombo woodlands are critical for both biodiversity and local livelihoods, but they face growing conservation pressures. This study assessed how varying land protection types—National Parks, Game Controlled Areas, Forest Reserves and Open Areas—affect woody vegetation. Results showed that Game Controlled Areas, where regulated hunting and community access are allowed, had the highest stem density and basal area, while species richness was greatest in both Forest Reserves and Game Controlled Areas.
Surprisingly, strict protection in National Parks did not consistently lead to higher biodiversity or the presence of rare species. These findings support the value of intermediate disturbance and local involvement in conservation, demonstrating that a balanced approach—combining habitat protection, sustainable use and community participation—best supports long-term ecosystem health. Regulated hunting areas can contribute significantly to biodiversity while aligning conservation goals with economic and social needs, reinforcing the importance of mixed-use strategies for miombo woodland resilience.
