The population dynamics of some woody species in the kalahari sand vegetation of Hwange national park

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2014-12-17

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Childes, Susan Lawley

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Abstract

The nopulaHon dynamics and principal controlling factors of six woody species found in the Kalahari Sand vegetation of Hwange Nation?1 Park are Investigated. The populations fror- woodland and sc areas of known human disturbance (logging) are compared with undisturbed sites. The effects of edaphic factors, frost-, fire and elephant damage on the woody species are examined. The results show the populations from the disturbed are?s vo be generally unstable with a decline in the woodlands. The estimated rerr litment of pluri lug a is 0,2 ?f the rate p.eedel to woodlands In the presen state* T1 influence of soil mo,svure is of major importance in determining vegetation 'hysiognomy an^ species composition. Frost and fire =*lso have a strong modifying influence on the vegetation through the differing sensitivities of each species. Frost, fire and elephant account for 57'''., and 19* of the damage (excluding unknown factors). In conclusion a hypo*-hes s showing *-he interaction of abiotic and bioMc factors on the three stages of vegetation cycling : woodland, scrub and grassland, Is presented.

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A Dissertation Submitted to the Faculty of Science University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg for the Degree of Master of Science

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