Kayumba, IIddi, SAugustino, SMakonda, F.B.S2023-04-172023-04-172016http://www.suaire.sua.ac.tz/handle/123456789/5183Journal ArticleWithin tree radial and axial variations of wood basic density and fibre length of Lonchocarpus capassa (Rolfe) were investigated using three mature defect free trees from Kilosa District, Tanzania. Samples for determination of wood basic density and fibre length were collected from the butt, the middle and the tip of the stem height and six radial positions. Wood basic density and fibre length were determined following standard procedures. The average wood basic density and fibre length were 569.3 kg m -3 and 1.38 mm, respectively. Statistical analysis indicated that stem height and radial positions had significant effect on wood density and fibre length. There was no positive linear relationship between wood basic density and fibre length. Based on density, the wood of L. capassa is heavy and is more or less comparable to that of Khaya anthotheca. The two species can therefore be used exchangeably if wood density is the only pre-requisite. Normally, heavy timbers are suitable for wood fuel from their high calorific values. The fibres of L. capassa are longer than those of the commonly used species in pulp and paper production in Tanzania, showing the potential of L. capassa for being used in pulp and paper making.enWood basic densityfibre lengthLonchocarpus capassaTanzaniaArticle