Defining Agroecosystems and Suitability Analysis in the Tana Beles Sub Basin, Ethiopia

This study focuses on the imperative role of farming systems research in addressing agricultural challenges amid climate change. The primary aim is to assess agroecosystems and their suitability for farming practices within the Tana Beles Sub Basin (TBSB) in Ethiopia. Climate characterization involves utilizing observed rainfall and temperature data from the National Meteorology Agency (NMA) and gridded data from the WorldClim2 database for agro-climate zone delineation. Soil information is derived from the Harmonized World Soil Database version 1 (HWSD1), while agroecological data is collected from the regional Agriculture and Rural Development Bureau. Various analytical techniques, including agroclimate zoning, soil classification, farming classifications, and agro-ecosystem analysis, are employed. The TBSB is categorized into seven agroecosystems, with Moist Midlands (AES2) dominating the region, covering approximately 50% of the area. Altitudinal variation in AES2 ranges from 1500 m to over 2800 m, and key soils include Euteric Vertisol, Euteric Fulvisol, and Hapelic Luvisol. The topography spans flat plains to hilly mountains with slopes ranging from 0% to over 45%. AES2 supports diverse crops like Teff, Maize, Wheat, Barley, Rice, Chatt, and coffee, with the potential for irrigation schemes along the rivers. Suitability analysis reveals that AES2 is highly suitable for agriculture, AES4 and AES5 are moderately suitable, AES1, AES3, and AES6 are marginally suitable, and AES7 is unsuitable. This comprehensive assessment provides valuable insights into the diverse agroecological conditions within the TBSB, facilitating informed decision-making for sustainable agricultural development in the face of climate change.