bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The taxonomy, biogeography and conservation of the myrmecophilous Chrysoritis butterflies (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) in South Africa
Authors: Terblanche R.F. , Van Hamburg H.
Published: August 2012

The relevance and integration of scientific knowledge to conservation management of the locally popular and highly endemic butterfly genus Chrysoritis are investigated within the research fields of taxonomy and biogeography. The butterfly genus Chrysoritis contains at least 41 species endemic to South Africa. The taxonomy of Chrysoritis has reached a state where revisions could easily result in a plethora of names between “lumping and splitting”. In practice, the state of the taxonomy of these butterflies on species level may alter their conservation priority. The two most species rich species groups in Chrysoritis have different centres of endemism, however, a butterfly atlas becomes a necessity to reveal more about their biogeography. There is an absence of butterfly species lists in many of our National Parks and Nature Reserves. Legislation should facilitate rather than limit the valuable role of the amateur lepidopterist to add distribution records. In turn, the amateur lepidopterists should adapt and make an effort to explore unknown localities, apart from monitoring butterflies at their well-known localities. The red listing of localised butterflies in South Africa, including a number of Chrysoritis species, is in need of an urgent review in the light of the most recent IUCN categories. A species such as Chrysoritis dicksoni should be protected by law - but at its known localities. The scenario that real conservation action is only needed if the last known locality of a butterfly is threatened, should be abolished. A paradigm shift to conserve the metapopulations of the highly endemic Chrysoritis genus and not merely a few of its species as items that appear on lists, seems necessary.
Population demography and spatial ecology of a reintroduced lion population in the Greater Makalali Conservancy, South Africa
Authors: Druce D. , Genis Heleen , Braak J , Greatwood Sophie , Delsink Audrey , Kettles R. , Hunter L. , Slotow R.
Published: August 2012

Many recently established small game reserves in southern Africa have introduced lion, and have had to actively manage their populations as the lion are in relatively small(
Altertative trophy measuring techniques for African buffalo
Authors: Gandy S.E. , Reilly B.K.
Published: August 2012

The African buffalo is considered the classic African trophy. It is the choice of many hunters who will never go on to hunt any of the other dangerous game animals on the continent. A good trophy is perceived as that of a mature bull with a hardened boss and horn tips that lengthen into sharply pointed hooks. However, indications are that these are the bulls in their breeding prime and there is concern that the continued targeting of these individuals will negatively impact on the population dynamics of the herds, ultimately affecting the sustainability of buffalo hunting. As they age and become postreproductive, the horns broom down, reducing the trophy score under the current measurement systems. A new measuring system is needed that encourages hunters to target the older post-reproductive bulls, instead of those that are still breeding. A random sample of trophies was divided into broomed and non-broomed sub-samples. All key parameters that can be measured in the trophy were measured with a view to identifying the parameters that would allow broomed-down individuals to compete favourably with the non-broomed “classic trophy” in the primary measurement systems, those of Safari Club International and Rowland Ward. An index, created through dividing tip space by the mean of the two individual horn lengths proved to serve the purpose. This factor was then applied to the mean of the SCI and Rowland Ward measurements in the samples. These methods allowed broomed horns to score more points in the record books than non-broomed horns. Boss width and boss space are other possible measurement inclusions that could be considered.
Post-release ranging behaviour of hand-raised black rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis, L. in Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe with recommendations for management of introduction to the wild
Authors: Matipano G.
Published: August 2012

Hand-raised rhinos would preferentially settle at sites close to areas where human activity was significant. Hand-raised rhinos that attached themselves to sites of human activity tended to move less widely and to have smaller seasonal ranges than those that moved away from human settlements. These rhinos had no fear of humans and some animals would move along established roads into hostile areas outside the park. These factors made hand-raised rhinos more vulnerable to poaching than their wild counterparts. Management of hand-raised rhinos with regards to ranging behaviour is discussed in the text.
A profile of tourists visiting the Kruger National Park
Authors: Saayman M. , Slabbert E.
Published: August 2012

Due to shrinking budgets for conservation and an increase in the number of government and privately owned parks, it has become very important for parks to determine who the tourists are who visit one of South Africa’s top tourist attractions. The reason for this is that park management and marketers need to focus their efforts to optimise their limited resources. This can only be done once there is a clear understanding of who the market is, where they come from and what they expect. The literature study clearly showed that market segmentation is essential for the effective marketing of a tourism product or destination. Two surveys were conducted, one in 2001 and a follow-up study in 2002, profiling tourists to the Kruger National Park. Different months were chosen to conduct the two surveys in order to get a more comprehensive profile of tourists visiting the park in different seasons.
Harvesting impacts on commonly used medicinal tree species (Catha edulis and Rapanea melanophloeos) under different land management regimes in the Mpumalanga Lowveld, South Africa
Authors: Botha J. , Witkowski E.T.F. , Shackleton C.M.
Published: August 2012

Harvesting of products from plants in the wild is widespread throughout southern Africa. Particularly important products are plant parts used in traditional medicine. However, the impacts of harvesting practices are rarely quantified, with as yet insufficient generic rules across species and life forms. This limits the predictive ability to monitor and manage the affected populations. This paper examines the harvesting impact on two popular woody medicinal species used throughout sub-Saharan Africa, namely Catha edulis (Vahl) Forssk. ex Endl. (bushman’s tea) and Rapanea melanophloeos (L.) Mez. (Cape beech). In both species, basal diameters, heights, and the number of size classes in the harvested populations were lower than in unharvested. Densities of harvested populations were higher in both species, including densities of young plants, but the frequency of individuals in larger size classes was lower. The populations of both species being harvested for medicinal products appeared to be withstanding the current levels of harvesting, but the population structure of C. edulis populations being harvested for poles on the roadside and near human settlements had been substantially altered. Despite the resilience of the two species to harvesting for medicinal products, loss of habitat or changes in land use pose a threat to a number of the assessed populations.
Ranging of older male elephants introduced to an existing small population without older males: Pilanesberg National Park
Authors: Slotow R. , Van Dyk G.
Published: August 2012

The African elephant Loxodonta africana is one of the key components of African savanna. Not only do they play a crucial role in the ecosystem (Dublin et al. 1990; Van de Vijver et al. 1999), but they also provide one of the integral parts of sustainable conservation through ecotourism (e.g. Brown 1993) and consumptive utilisation (Taylor 1993). The ever-expanding transformation of savanna land-use through human settlement is resulting in the isolation of elephants into small populations. Furthermore, in South Africa, the reclamation of ranch land as game areas has resulted in the reintroduction of elephant to a large number of small, isolated, fenced reserves.
The micromorphology of the African buffalo louse Haematopinus bufali as observed under the scanning electron microscope
Authors: Turner M.L. , Labuschagne C. , Green E.D.
Published: August 2012

An extensive literature search revealed that no scanning electron microscopical investigation has, to date, been performed on Haematopinus bufali, a sucking louse, host specific to the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer).
Dolomitic vegetation of the Sterkfontein Caves World Heritage Site and its importance in the conservation of Rocky Highveld Grassland
Authors: Siebert F. , Siebert S.J.
Published: August 2012

An analysis of the vegetation of the Sterkfontein Caves (i.e. the natural area surrounding the caves) is presented. Releves were compiled in 24 stratified random sample plots. A TWINSPAN classification, refined by Braun-Blanquet procedures, revealed six plant communities, also referred to as vegetation units. For each of these vegetation units the species richness was determined. Plant communities of conservation importance were identified and new associations were formally described.
Vegetation of the Owen Sitole College of Agriculture in Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal
Authors: Van der Linden J.P. , Siebert S.J. , Siebert F. , Ferreira D.P. , Bredenkamp G.J.
Published: August 2012

A vegetation survey was conducted of the Owen Sitole College of Agriculture (OSCA). Phytosociological data were used to identify plant communities and to determine alpha diversity. Five plant communities were recognised and described. One of these was sub-divided into two sub-communities. An ordination scatter diagram of the distribution of the six vegetation units depicted topographically induced gradients, specifically related to soil depth, rock cover, slope and altitude. Floristic composition of the six vegetation units indicates that this coastal thomveld has affinities to the Grassland, Savanna and Forest biomes. In the study area, closed woodland communities have the highest plant richness and grassland communities the highest plant diversity. Diversity and richness per community compares favourable with the Rocky Highveld Grassland, suggesting that phytodiversity at OSCA was maintained despite a history of multiple disturbances. The habitat on OSCA farm serves as an important refuge for plant species and communities of biological and economic significance, especially the remaining grasslands.
Freshwater fishes of Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Authors: Russell I.A. , Skelton P.H.
Published: August 2012

The study aimed to determine the distribution and relative abundance of freshwater fishes in the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. A total of 1778 fish specimens from three species were collected during surveys carried out in the Little Caledon River during 2002. The chubbyhead barb Barbus anoplus was the only indigenous species recorded, and comprised 99.5 of the total catch. Two of the three recorded species were alien {Cypnnus carpio, Oncorhynchus mykiss}. A further nine indigenous species could potentially occur within the park, though are unlikely to be permanent residents. Barriers formed by instream impoundments may prevent temporary immigration of indigenous fishes, but also limit the further spread of alien species in the park's rivers.
A re-assessment of the avifauna of the Mountain Zebra National Park
Authors: Craig A.J.F.K. , Hilley P.E. , Parker D.
Published: August 2012

Based on all published records, together with the original data for the southern African bird atlas, the current Birds in Reserves Project and our records on field trips, 257 bird species have been reliably recorded from MZNP. We have assessed the current status of all species, in relation to the recent expansion of the park and other changes which may be a consequence of management practices. No birds of national conservation concern are breeding residents in the park, and some species are periodic or irregular visitors. Nevertheless, the park is important for the conservation of representatives of the Karoo avifauna, and the diversity of birdlife present should be highlighted to attract visitors with a special interest in birding.
Game farms as sustainable ecotourist attractions
Authors: Van der Merwe P. , Saayman M.
Published: August 2012

The main goal of this research was to determine aspects that will contribute to the development of sustainable ecotourism on game farms. In order to achieve this, empirical research was done by means of a survey sample consisting of all the active members of the South African Game Farmers Organisation. There are a total of 1244 members, of whom 50 % (n = 622) were randomly sampled for the research. In the main findings of the research, aspects were identified that are developed according to the criterion for sustainable ecotourism. These aspects include natural/conservation/environmental considerations as well as cultural aspects, such as learning local languages. Aspects that are neglected include working closely with the local community to develop new products; developing partnerships and joint ventures in which the community has a significant stake; fostering the development of community-based tourism products by providing marketing and mentoring support; and considering using local entrepreneurs in the development of community initiatives.
Major plant communities of the Marakele National Park
Authors: Van Staden P.J. , Bredenkamp G.J.
Published: August 2012

To manage and conserve any national park efficiently, a profound knowledge of the ecology is a prerequisite, and to achieve that an inventory of the biotic and abiotic components must be undertaken. As a contribution to such a program this information was collected for Marakele National Park. The study area covers 290.51 km² in the southwestern part of the Limpopo Province. The underlying parent rock of the study area is sandstone, shale and mudstone with several diabase dykes. The soils range from shallow to deep sandy soils on sandstone and clayey soils on diabase and mudstone. The rainfall varies from 556 mm to 630 mm per annum, mainly during the summer months. The study area experiences warm summers with temperatures of up to 32 ºC and cool, dry winters with frost in the low-lying areas. The vegetation of the study area was classified in a hierarchical, plant sociological system by using TWINSPAN and the Braun - Blanquet technique. The floristic data from 130 relevés were classified to identify five major plant communities, namely one forest community, three savanna/grassland communities and one wetland community. These plant communities were ecologically interpreted by habitat.The phytosociological table was condensed to a synoptic table to describe the major plant communities.
Plant communities, wetlands and landscapes of the Parque Nacional de Banhine, Moçambique
Authors: Stalmans M. , Wishart M.
Published: August 2012

The Parque Nacional de Banhine (Banhine National Park) was proclaimed during 1972. It covers 600 000 ha in Moçambique to the east of the Limpopo River. Until recently, this park, originally and popularly known as the ‘Serengeti of Moçambique’, was characterised by neglect and illegal hunting that caused the demise of most of its large wildlife. New initiatives aimed at rehabilitating the park have been launched within the scope of the Greater Limpopo Transfrontier Park. A vegetation map was required as input to its management plan. The major objectives of the study were firstly to understand the environmental determinants of the vegetation, secondly to identify and describe individual plant communities in terms of species composition and structure and thirdly to delineate landscapes in terms of their plant community and wetland make-up, environmental determinants and distribution. A combination of fieldwork and analysis of LANDSAT satellite imagery was used. A total of 115 sample plots were surveyed. Another 222 sample points were briefly assessed from the air to establish the extent of the different landscapes. The ordination results clearly indicate the overriding importance of moisture availability in determining vegetation composition in the Parque Nacional de Banhine. Eleven distinct plant communities were recognised. They are described in terms of their structure, composition and distribution. These plant communities have strong affinities to a number of communities found in the Limpopo National Park to the west. The sandveld community is relatively the most species-rich of all communities. Different combinations of these plant communities can be grouped in five major landscapes, namely the Wetland, Grassland, Mopane, Sandveld and Androstachys landscape. These different landscapes hold six different wetland types as defined by the RAMSAR classification. The landscapes with their individual plant communities and wetland types represent a unique combination of habitats that have great intrinsic conservation value. These habitats are key to the long-term maintenance and survival of a diverse avifauna, including the original ostrich population, as well as wattled cranes.
New records of 45 bird species in the desert margins area of the North-West Province, South Africa
Authors: Hudson A. , Bouwman H.
Published: August 2012

New records and possible range extensions are reported on 45 bird species (ca 25% of the 167 species recorded during surveys) in the Bophirima district of the North-West Province, South Africa. The findings were compared with data in The Atlas of Southern African Birds. The main reasons for these new records may be ascribed to the low number of visits during the atlas project, higher precipitation during the time of our observations versus that of the atlas project, and possibly an increased suitability of the area for some bird species due to human habitation. These new records also provide additional information that may be useful in conservation planning, especially in arid areas. Heuningvlei Pan in particular, should be considered for additional conservation measures.
Habitat, food, and small mammal community structure in Namaqualand
Authors: Van Deventer M. , Nel J.A.J.
Published: August 2012

The effect of habitat differences and food availability on small mammal (rodent and elephant shrew) species richness, diversity, density and biomass was investigated in Namaqualand, South Africa. Species richness in the three habitats sampled, namely Upland Succulent Karoo, Dry Riverine Shrub and North-western Mountain Renosterveld was low, with only 2–4 species per habitat. Rodents trapped were predominantly Gerbillurus paeba and Aethomys namaquensis, with fewer Mus minutoides and Petromyscus sp. The only non-rodent was the elephant shrew Elephantulus edwardii. Ten habitat features, the percentage of total plant cover, tree cover, shrub cover, grass cover, plant litter, total basal cover, sand, gravel or rock cover, and the dominant plant height were recorded at 30 randomly chosen points on five sampling grids in each habitat. Small mammal density and biomass was significantly correlated with food availability (green foliage cover, seeds, and relative density and biomass of insects). Species richness and diversity of small mammals were significantly correlated with shrub cover. Numbers and biomass of specific species correlated significantly with different habitat features in each case.
Use of an area-based survey technique to detect vegetation changes in Sour Bushveld
Authors: Panagos M.D. , Reilly B.K.
Published: August 2012

Most strategies for monitoring vegetation change on reserves and game ranches are based on point methods. Area-based methods form the basis of initial floristic classifications from which vegetation maps are constructed. The question arises whether or not these area-based methods can be used for monitoring or not. This paper compares two area-based data sets from the same sites with an intervening period of five years. Data were collected on a Sour Bushveld game farm, in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The structure of the woody vegetation, particularly in two communities reflected a plant successional progression over time. All six re-surveyed sites reflected an increase in plant species richness and this increase was most substantial in one community where the total number of plant species increased from 17 in 1996 to 34 in 2001 at one sampling site and from 26 in 1996 to 45 in 2001 at the other. This study has shown that change in species composition can be detected using area-based sampling techniques but that absolute measures, such as density, should be employed rather than estimates, especially with regard to plant cover.
A floristic analysis of forest and thicket vegetation of the Marakele National Park
Authors: Van Staden P.J. , Bredenkamp G.J.
Published: August 2012

One of the major plant communities identified in the Marakele National Park was forest. It became clear that this major forest community contained various forest and thicket communities. Relevés compiled in the forest were classified by TWINSPAN and Braun-Blanquet procedures identified six communities that are hierarchically classified. The forests dominated by Podocarpus latifolius and Widdringtonia nodiflora represent Afromontane Forests, whereas the Buxus macowanii-dominated dry forests and Olea europaea subsp. africana represent Northern Highveld Forests. A further group of communities represent thickets on termitaria with floristic affinities to both savanna and forest. The floristic composition and relationships of the forest and thicket communities are discussed.
Phytosociology and plant community utilisation by vervet monkeys of the Blydeberg Conservancy, Limpopo Province
Authors: Barret A.S. , Brown L.R. , Barret L. , Henzi S.P.
Published: August 2012

The plant communities of the Blydeberg Conservancy were investigated as part of a research project on the foraging ecology of vervet monkeys Cercopithecus aethiops pygerythrus (senso lato) in mixed lowveld bushveld and sour lowveld bushveld areas. To date there are no formal management plans for vervet monkeys. This is attributed to the limited knowledge of vervets and their utilisation of and impacts on ecosystems. From a TWINSPAN classification refined by Braun-Blanquet procedures, ten plant communities that can be placed into four major groups were identified. A classification and description of these communities, including a vegetation map are presented. Diagnostic species as well as prominent and less conspicuous species of tree, shrub, herb and grass strata are outlined. Of the ten available plant communities, the vervets utilised only six during the study period. There was an abundant supply of various food sources throughout the year, with movement patterns mostly coinciding with the fruiting times of several tree and other plant species.
South African National Survey of Arachnida (SANSA): Solifugae (sun-spiders) of the national parks and reserves of South Africa (Arachnida, Solifugae)
Authors: Dippenaar-Schoeman A.S. , González Reyes A.X.
Published: August 2012

As part of the South African National Survey of Arachnida (SANSA) inventories are underway to determine the diversity of the South African Arachnida fauna (Dippenaar- Schoeman & Craemer 2000). Several SANSA projects are in progress, including inventories of the arachnid faunas of protected areas. One such project is an inventory of the Solifugae (sun spiders) from protected areas. Meaningful conservation can not take place if the species involved are not known.
The effect of mature elephant bull introductions on ranging patterns of resident bulls: Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Druce Heleen , Pretorius K. , Druce D. , Slotow R.
Published: August 2012

Increasing popularity of wildlife viewing has resulted in a rapid increase in small, enclosed reserves in South Africa. The African elephant is one of the many species that has been reintroduced into these reserves for eco-tourism. These elephant populations were established as young (smaller that 10 years old) orphans from prior Kruger National Park culling operations. Consequently, this abnormal sex and age structure of these introduced populations has influenced their behavioural and spatial ecology. In Pilanesberg National Park, this abnormal behaviour was corrected by introducing older bulls and culling certain problem elephants. In July 2003, three older bulls (29–41 years old) were introduced into Phinda Private Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa in order to normalise the bull age structure. These introduced bulls were monitored intensively after release, as was the resident bull population, both before and after introduction of the older bulls. The introduced bulls settled into restricted ranges separate from the family groups. All the resident bulls decreased their home ranges at first, with most increasing their home ranges a year later. The resident bulls’ change in ranging patterns was due more to ecological factors than to the influence of the mature bull introduction. This study indicates that the introduction of older male elephants into small populations does not pose major risks or animal welfare concerns.
Reflections on the relationships between communities and conservation areas of South Africa: the case of five South African national parks
Authors: Simelane T.S. , Kerley G.I.H. , Knight M.H.
Published: August 2012

An evaluation of the relationships between communities around Addo Elephant National Park, Mountain Zebra National Park, Karoo National Park, Golden Gate Highlands National Park and Vaalbos National Park shows that these communities have limited ecological knowledge and understanding of resources occurring within the parks. People within these communities rate relationships with their neighbouring parks as relatively poor. Despite this, these communities are keen to support conservation and management of biodiversity through national parks. The study further revealed that two types of communities occur around the national parks of South Africa. These are neighbouring and the distant communities. The distant communities are more urban in character than the neighbouring communities. These communities are heterogeneous with people from a variety of cultures. The varying lifestyle, age groups, cultural backgrounds and income levels lead to differences in expectations from the national parks by these communities. This, which is critical in determining the level of appreciation of conservation of biodiversity by communities around conservation areas, requires the attention of the park managers. They need to ensure that when distributing the benefits or opportunities linked to conservation, cultural, income and education differences among communities are considered and used as the basis for development and implementation of community development projects.
Body temperature studies in South African lizards
Authors: Stebbins Robert C.
Published: August 2012

Body temperature studies in South African lizards
A supplementary check-list of Decapoda, freshwater fish, amphibia, reptiles and small mammals recorded in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Pienaar Ph.D., U. De V.
Published: August 2012

A supplementary check-list of Decapoda, freshwater fish, amphibia, reptiles and small mammals recorded in the Kruger National Park
The recent fire history of the Table Mountain National Park and implications for fire management
Authors: Forsyth Greg G. , Van Wilgen Brian W.
Published: August 2012

This paper provides an assessment of fire regimes in the Table Mountain National Park over the past four decades. We compiled a GIS database of all fires between 1970 and 2007 and analysed the fire regime in terms of the frequency, season and size of fires and the relationship between fire occurrence and fire weather. Most fires (90.5% of area burnt) occurred in summer and autumn, the ecologically acceptable season for fires. However, mean fire return intervals declined by 18.1 years, from 31.6 to 13.5 years, between the first and last decades of the record respectively. The area subjected to short (≤ six years) intervals between fires covered > 16% of the park in the last two decades of the record, compared to ~ 4% in the first two decades. A relatively small number of large fires dominated in terms of area burnt. Of the 373 fires recorded, 40 fires > 300 ha burnt 75% of the area, while 216 fires < 25 ha burnt 3.4% of the area. Fires occurred under a wide range of weather conditions, but large fires were restricted to periods of high fire danger. Prescribed burning was a relatively unimportant cause of fires, and most (> 85%) of the area burnt in wildfires. Areas subjected to short fire return intervals should be considered for management interventions. These could include the re-establishment of extirpated fire-sensitive species, the clearing of invasive alien plants and increased precautions for the prevention or rapid suppression of future accidental fires.
An assessment of the implementation and outcomes of recent changes to fire management in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Van Wilgen Brian W. , Govender Navashni , MacFadyen Sandra
Published: August 2012

This paper reviews recent changes in fire management in the Kruger National Park, and assesses the resulting fire patterns against thresholds of potential concern. In 2002, a lightning-driven approach was replaced by an approach that combined point ignitions with unplanned and lightning fires. The approach aimed to burn an annual target area, determined by rainfall and fuel conditions, in point-ignition fires of different sizes. Most of the original fire-related thresholds of potential concern (TPCs) were incorporated into the new approach. The annual target area to be burnt ranged from 12 to 24% of the park between 2002 and 2006. The total area burnt generally exceeded the targets each year, and management fires accounted for less than half of the total area burnt. The fire regime was dominated by very large fires (> 5 000 ha) which accounted for 77% of the total area burnt. New TPCs were developed to assess whether the fire regime encompassed a sufficient degree of variability, in terms of fire intensity and the spatial distribution of burnt areas. After assessment and adjustment, it appears that these TPCs have not yet been exceeded. The point-ignition approach, and its evaluation in terms of variability and heterogeneity, is based on the untested assumption that a diverse fire regime will promote biodiversity. This assumption needs to be critically assessed. We recommend that the practice of point ignitions be continued, but that greater efforts be made to burn larger areas earlier in the season to reduce large and intense dry-season fires.
Analysis of the vegetation of the sandstone ridges (Ib land type) of the north-eastern parts of the Mapungubwe National Park, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Gotze Albie R. , Cilliers Sarel S. , Beduizenhout Hugo , Kellner Klaus
Published: August 2012

The establishment of the Mapungubwe National Park has been an objective of several conservationists for many years. The ultimate objective is that this park should become a major component of a Transfrontier National Park shared by Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa. The aim of this study was to identify, classify and describe the plant communities present in the Ib land type of the park. Sampling was done by means of the Braun-Blanquet method. A total of 48 stratified random relevés were sampled in the Ib land type. All relevé data were imported into a TURBOVEG database, after which the numerical classification technique TWINSPAN was used as a first approximation. Subsequently, Braun-Blanquet procedures were used to refine data and a phytosociological table was constructed, using the visual editor, MEGATAB. Two plant communities and several subcommunities and variants were identified and described from the phytosociological table.
Applying economic guidelines for responsible tourism in a World Heritage Site
Authors: Coetzee Willem J.L. , Van Niekerk Mathilda , Saayman Melville
Published: August 2012

This article proposes an integrated sustainable tourism development strategy for the Vredefort Dome as a World Heritage Site. In particular, it analyses the integration of the South African guidelines for responsible tourism applied to a local community. All tourism product owners in the Dome area formed part of this research that was conducted by means of a survey. The strategy that was formulated for the area aims to ensure that future generations will be able to utilise the resources in the same manner as the present generation. It is indicated that this intra-generational equity will only be possible through an integrated approach. The value of this research is its contribution to responsible tourism and, concurrently, its emphasis on the fact that tourism destinations in South Africa need to be developed in an integrated and sustainable manner.In order for the Vredefort Dome to be a World Heritage Site, and to exist as a protected area, it is imperative that the tourism product owners in the area realise their roles as custodians of this precious site. This proposition leads to the main aim of this study, namely to develop an integrated tourism development strategy for the Vredefort Dome as a World Heritage site.The results of the empirical study indicated that tourism stakeholders are prepared to improve the present situation in the Vredefort Dome and are willing to adjust their business practices in the future. Such changes in practice involve some strategic issues, and the economic, social and environmental strategies will give direction to this World Heritage Site to become more sustainable.
Travel motivations of tourists visiting Kruger National Park
Authors: Van der Merwe Peet , Saayman Melville
Published: August 2012

The Kruger National Park (KNP) one of the largest conservation areas in South Africa, attracts in excess of one million visitors a year and is regarded as an icon destination in international tourism. Since this park attracts more tourists than any other park in South Africa, the purpose of this article is to determine the reasons (the travel motives) why tourists visit the park. Little research has been done on travel motives to national parks and this was the first of its kind in South Africa. The research was conducted by means of questionnaires. A factor analysis was used to determine the travel motives. Six factors were identified, namely nature, activities, attractions, nostalgia, novelty and escape from routine. Some of these motives were confirmed by similar research in other countries, although the similarities are not significant. This research confirmed that different attractions and destinations fed different travel motives, hence the need for more studies of this nature to be conducted.
Vegetation description of the Doornhoek section of the Mountain Zebra National Park (MZNP), South Africa
Authors: Bezuidenhout Hugo , Brown Leslie R.
Published: August 2012

The Mountain Zebra National Park (MZNP) has been extended over the last couple of years. One of the newly procured areas is the Doornhoek section, which had been adjacent to the park. To develop scientifically sound management programmes for conservation areas, it is essential that an inventory of their natural resources be undertaken. The aim of this study was to classify, describe and map the vegetation of the Doornhoek section of the park. The floristic data were analysed in accordance with the Braun-Blanquet procedures using the BBPC suite. The data analysis resulted in the identification of eight communities, which can be grouped into seven major community types (Rhus lucida–Buddleja glomerata Shrubland, Rhigozum obovatum–Rhus longispina Shrubland, Helichrysum dregeanum–Aristida diffusa Grassland, Pentzia globosa–Enneapogon scoparius Grassland, Aristida adscensionus–Pentzia globosa Grassland, Cadaba aphylla–Acacia karroo Woodland and Lycium oxycarpum–Acacia karroo Woodland). Four of these communities occur on the higher-lying plateau, mid-slope and crest areas, while the other four communities are located on the lower-lying mid-plateau and foot slope, along drainage lines and in valley-bottom areas. The description of the plant communities, together with the vegetation map, can serve as a basis for formulating a management programme for the larger park. Although sections of Doornhoek have been overgrazed and degraded in the past, its recent addition to the MZNP contributes to the available habitat preferred by large herbivores, such as valley bottoms, foot-slopes and plateaux.
The alien invasive land snail Theba pisana in the West Coast National Park: Is there cause for concern?
Authors: Odendaal Lizelle J. , Haupt Tanya M. , Griffiths Charles L.
Published: August 2012

The distribution, abundance, size distribution and diurnal activity patterns of invasive land snails, Theba pisana, in the West Coast National Park (WCNP), South Africa, were investigated. The park was divided into 1 km2 grids, within each of which five 1 m2 quadrat counts of live snails were recorded. Of 106 grids sampled, 19% contained live snails. The average density of snails was 4.04 m-2 ± 24.9, significantly lower than in disturbed habitats adjacent to the park (57 m-2 ± 96.25), but very high densities were recorded at two sites. Snails were most abundant along roadsides and densities decreased dramatically with distance from roads. T. pisana in the WCNP appear to have an annual lifecycle, breeding in autumn to winter and growing to adult size of about 14 mm diameter by the end of the following summer. Snails were observed on a wide variety of endemic and introduced plant species and appeared to have a catholic diet. They are active mostly at night and especially during periods of high humidity, irrespective of temperature. Given the very high densities that T. pisana can attain at some sites, plus their apparently catholic feeding habits, their potential impact on the vegetation of the park is cause for concern and should be further investigated. Control of the main colonies should also be considered.
Characterisation of the woody assemblages of Zululand coastal thornveld along the Nseleni river
Authors: Van der Linden Jannie P. , Siebert Frances , Siebert Stefan J. , Ferreira Daan P. , Bredekamp George J.
Published: August 2012

A classification of the woody component of the riparian vegetation of Zululand coastal thornveld is analysed using the height classes of different woody species as an indication of age. A total of 43 randomly stratified plots was selected using aerial photographs to include all the different plant communities in this rare and endemic vegetation type. A floristic survey of the woody component was conducted within each sample plot. Species data recorded included tree cover and tree richness. Environmental data recorded included altitude, soil type, soil chemistry, aspect and slope. The data set was analysed with TWINSPAN and four woody-plant assemblages were identified. An ordination using CANOCO was applied to examine the relationships between species distribution and associated environmental gradients. Changes in the species composition of woody assemblages occurred along an environmental gradient determined by soil properties and past land use.
The position of nature conservation in South Africa.
Authors: Van der Merwe Nico J.
Published: August 2012

The position of nature conservation in South Africa.
Survey of the termites of the Kruger National Park.
Authors: Coaton W. G. H.
Published: August 2012

(Including diagnosis of Fulleritermes gen. nov.: Nasutitermitinae). Published with the permission of the Secretary for Agricultural Technical Services
On the nest of Cryptomys Hottentotus in the Kruger National Park.
Authors: De Graaff G.
Published: August 2012

This paper briefly describes the structure of a nest of the mole rat, Cryptomys hotfentotus. In the Pretoriuskop area this species uses the gifbol fBop/ione disticha), grass roots and the sekelbos (Dichrosfachys nyassana) as the main material for nest construction. The presence of invertebrates in the nest (such as mites and beetles) is mentioned.
South African Lepidoptera, 2
Authors: Vari L
Published: August 2012

Descriptions of new species of Hypeninae from the Kruger National Park (Noctuidae)
A check-list of the birds of the Kalahari Gemsbok Park.
Authors: Prozesky O. P. M. , Haagner Clem
Published: August 2012

A check-list of the birds of the Kalahari Gemsbok Park.
Survey of the termites (Isoptera) of the Kalahari Thornveld and Shrub Bushveld of the R.S.A.
Authors: Coaton W. G. H.
Published: August 2012

Published with the permission of the Secretary for Agricultural Technical Services.
A list of the ants collected in the Kruger National Park with notes on their distribution
Authors: Prins A. J.
Published: August 2012

A list of the ants collected in the Kruger National Park with notes on their distribution
A preliminary note on the use of Quiloflex (Benzodioxane Hydro- chloride) in the immobilization of game
Authors: Van Niekerk J. W. , Pienaar U. De V. , Fairall N.
Published: August 2012

A preliminary note on the use of Quiloflex (Benzodioxane Hydro-chloride) in the immobilization of game
Ondersoek in die plantegroei van die Willem Pretorius-Wildtuin met spesiale verwysing na veldbenuttiging
Authors: Roberts B. R.
Published: August 2012

Ondersoek in die plantegroei van die Willem Pretorius-Wildtuin met spesiale verwysing na veldbenuttiging
A new subspecies of water-snake from Kruger National Park
Authors: FitzSimons V.
Published: August 2012

A new subspecies of water-snake from Kruger National Park
South African Lepidoptera, 4
Authors: Vari Lajos
Published: August 2012

South African Lepidoptera, 4
Records of butterflies of the Kruger National Park 1
Authors: Van Son G
Published: August 2012

Records of butterflies of the Kruger National Park 1
A revised list of the ants collected in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Prins A. J.
Published: August 2012

Published with the permission of the Secretary for Agriculture.
A note on Raphicerus Campestris (Thunberg, 18 ii): A challenge to observers
Authors: Van Bruggen A. C.
Published: August 2012

A note on Raphicerus Campestris (Thunberg, 18 ii): A challenge to observers
On the parasites associated with the Bathyergidae
Authors: De Graaff G.
Published: August 2012

On the parasites associated with the Bathyergidae
Bodemkundige aspekte van die Kalahari-Gemsbokpark
Authors: Louw P. A.
Published: August 2012

Gepubliseer met verlof van die Departement Landboutegniese Dienste.
Report on the bird-life in the Mountain Zebra National Park, Cradock, QP. 1962-1964
Authors: Skead C. J.
Published: August 2012

Report on the bird-life in the Mountain Zebra National Park, Cradock, QP. 1962-1964
Notes on the prey of owls in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park, with special reference to the small mammals
Authors: Nel J. A. J. , Nolte H.
Published: August 2012

Notes on the prey of owls in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park, with special reference to the small mammals
South African Acarina i,Nine species of the sub-family Tetranychinae collected on wild plants
Authors: Meyer Magdalena K. P.
Published: August 2012

The five new species described and figured here, were collected on wild plants in two of the National Parks of South Africa. The species are: Tetranychus pafuriensis, Oligonychus grewiae/ Eotetranychus obtusus, Schizotetranychus protectus and S. nesbitti. New locality records are given for Tefranychus neoca/edon/cus Andre, T. lombardinii Baker & Pritchard, OJ/gonychus hadrus Pritchard & Baker and O. grypus Baker & Pritchard.
Nematodes of the superfamily Dorylai-moidea collected in the northern part of the Kruger National Park
Authors: Heyns Juan , Lagerwey Gerda
Published: August 2012

(Published with the permission of the Secretary for Agricultural Technical Services.)
A rare find
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

A rare find
An areal census of elephant and buffalo in the Kruger National Park and the implication thereof on intended management schemes
Authors: Pienaar U. De V. , Van Wyk P , Fairall N.
Published: August 2012

An areal census of elephant and buffalo in the Kruger National Park and the implication thereof on intended management schemes
Transference of Vector-valued Multipliers on Weighted Lp-spaces
Authors: Blasco Oscar , Villarroya Paco
Published: August 2012

New transference results for Fourier multiplier operators defined by regulated symbols are presented. We prove restriction and extension of multipliers between weighted Lebesgue spaces with two different weights, which belong to a class more general than periodic weights, and two different exponents of integrability that can be below one.

We also develop some ad-hoc methods that apply to weights defined by the product of periodic weights with functions of power type. Our vector-valued approach allows us to extend our results to transference of maximal multipliers and provide transference of Littlewood–Paley inequalities.
O contexto sociocognitivo do indexador no processo de representação temática da informação
Authors: Boccato Vera Regina Casari
Published: August 2012

O foco deste estudo é a interdisciplinaridade entre as vertentes cognitivas e a Ciência da Informação, com destaque para a Psicologia Cognitiva, como campo científico colaborativo no delineamento do contexto sociocognitivo do indexador, visto como elemento norteador na representação temática adequada para a recuperação por assunto em catálogos online de áreas científicas especializadas. Os resultados demonstram que o contexto sociocognitivo do bibliotecário indexador é um elemento de suma importância na adequada representação da informação para a busca por assunto em catálogos online. Conclui-se que as visões holística e coletiva do bibliotecário indexador são privilegiadas, contribuintes para a definição de um tratamento temático da informação e na modelagem de sistemas de recuperação da informação. A partir dessa concepção, a área de Ciência da Informação volta-se para uma dimensão teórica focada por abordagens interpretativas, centradas no aspecto semântico e no contexto social da informação, do bibliotecário indexador e do usuário.
Second Generation Identities: The Scottish Diaspora in England
Authors: Leith Murray Stewart , Sim Duncan
Published: August 2012

Scotland has often had an almost absent relationship with its diaspora, with expatriate Scots often viewed from the ‘homeland’ as being ‘more Scottish than the Scots’. Expatriate Scottish identities are not only strong, but may be rooted in an overly romantic view of Scotland. Most research into the Scottish diaspora, however, has focused on North America and Australasia, although a diaspora exists much nearer home, elsewhere in the UK. Limited previous work suggests that the Scottish diaspora in England does not adopt the overly romantic view of Scotland characteristic of North American Scots and indeed, there is evidence that feelings of Scottish identity begin to fade within a generation of emigration to England. There is also evidence that Scottish organisations within England are declining. This paper therefore explores the continuing sense of a Scottish identity within the Scottish diaspora in England, through a series of interviews exploring the identities of second-generation ‘Scots’ - the offspring of Scottish migrants. The findings suggest that Scottish identity does indeed appear to weaken quite quickly in contrast to the overseas experience, perhaps because proximity to Scotland means that the preservation of an expatriate identity is considered to be relatively unimportant.