bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The brush-tailed gerbille gerbillurus vallinus in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park
Authors: Schlitter D.A. , Rautenbach I.L.
Published: August 2012

As with many of the other national parks in the Republic of South Africa, an effort has been made to determine the species of small mammals in the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park (KGNP) (Rautenbach 1971; Rautenbach and Nel 1975). An additional feature of such species inventories has been the use of owl pellets to determine the occurrence of small mammals in a given area. This has been done in the KGNP as well as other parts of southern Africa (Davis 1958; Nel and Nolte 1965; Nel 1969; Vernon 1972; Coetzee 1972). Such inventories of species of small mammals are critical as the KGNP has become an important study site for desert rodent ecology (Nel 1967; Nel and Rautenbach 1974; Nel 1975; Nel and Rautenbach 1975).
Standing crops of dominant combretum species at three browsing levels in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Dayton B.R.
Published: August 2012

In red bushwillow veld near the Sand River in the Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa, a determination was made of the standing crops of Combretum apiculatum and C. zeyheri at browsing levels delineated by the maximum feeding heights of impala (1,5 m), kudu (2,5 m) and giraffe (5,5 m). Using harvested sample trees, logarithmic or linear regression equations were generated which related basal diameter or stem height to biomass or percentage of total biomass at the different levels. Biomass was divided into two components: current shoots and wood plus bark. Regression forms and variables which produced the highest correlation coefficients changed with changes in species or browsing level, however, most equations were logarithmic with basal diameter as the independent variable.
The diet of the brown hyaena hyaena brunnea in the Southern Kalahari
Authors: Mills M.G.L. , Mills M.E.J.
Published: August 2012

Four methods for studying the diet of the brown hyaena are discussed. A combination of direct observations (of individuals Fitted with radio collars and beta lights) and faecal analysis yielded the best information. Analysis of food items found at dens was also useful, but tracking spoor had severe limitations. The brown hyaena in the southern Kalahari is predominantly a scavenger of all kinds of vertebrate remains, supplementing its diet with insects, wild fruits, birds' eggs and the occasional small animal which it kills. It is thus well adapted to the harsh conditions of this arid region where large ungulates are thinly distributed.
Chromosome analysis in the Kruger National Park: Mitotic and meiotic studies in the African elephant loxodonta africana
Authors: Wallace C.
Published: August 2012

The present report is published because of the paucity of publication on the mitotic chromosomes of the African elephant Loxodonta africana, and because it is the fisrt study in which the meiotic chromosomes of the species are described.
Veldbrandnavorsing in die Struikmopanieveld van die Nasionale Krugerwildtuin
Authors: Gertenbach W. P. D , Potgieter A. L. F
Published: August 2012

Die geskiedenis van veldbrand en die ontwikkeling van die huidige brandbeleid in die Nasionale Krugerwildtuin, Republiek van Suid-Afrika, word bespreek. Aandag word gegee aan die ligging en uitleg van die brandproefherhalings in die struikmopanieveld. Die metode van opname van die houtagtige komponente en die veldlaag word bespreek, sowel as die kriteria wat gebruik is in die vergelyking tussen brandbehandelings. 'n Fitososiologiese tabel van die verskillende persele is opgestel met spesifieke verwysing na die verskille in grondsoorte en hoe dit die floristiese samestelling bei'nvloed. Uit die resultate wat verkry is, is dit duidelik dat meer frekwente brande 'n nadelige invloed op die veldlaag het. Dit hang egter grootliks at van die seisoen van diejaar waarin gebrand word, sowel as die reenval en gepaardgaande opbou van brandbare materiaal. Brande in Augustus, Oktober en Desember is strawwer en rig meer skade in die veldlaag aan. In 'n nat siklus word die houtagtige komponent beter beheer deur 'n meer frekwente brand, maar as dit in 'n droe siklus toegepas word, kan dit lei tot bosindringing. 'n Oorwegende gevolgtrekking van hierdie studie is dat 'n brand* beleid wat nie daarop ingestel is om die natuurlike regime sover moontlik te simuleer nie, tot veldagteruitgang kan lei.

Veld fire research on the mopani shrubveld of the Kruger National Park. The history of veld burning and the development of the current burning policy in the Kruger National Park, Republic of South Africa, are discussed. Attention is given to the siting and lay-out of replications of the experimental burning plots in the northern mopani shrubveld. The method used for syurveying the woody and herbaceous components and the criteria used for comparing different burning treatment are explained. A phytosociological table of different plots is presented with special reference to differences in soil types and its influence on floristic composition. The results obtained show that more frequent burns have a detrimental effect on the herba-ceous vegetation. This is primarily dependent on the amount of accumulated fuel which in turn is influenced by the season and amount of rainfall. The August, October and December burns are more severe and cause more damage to the herbaceous field layer. In a wet cycle better control of the woody components is obtained with more frequent burns, but when applied during a dry cycle it may lead to bush encroachment. A major conclusion is that a burning policy which is not aimed at simulating the natural regime as far as possible, may cause deterioration of veld conditions.
Application of stereo photogrammetric techniques for measuring African Elephants
Authors: Hall-Martin A. J , Ruther H
Published: August 2012

Measurements of shoulder height and back length of African elephants were obtained by means of stereo photogrammetric techniques. A pair of Zeiss UMK 10/1318 cameras, mounted on a steel frame on the back of a vehicle, were used to photograph the elephants in the Addo Elephant National Park, Republic of South Africa. Several modifications of normal photogrammetry procedure applicable to the field situation (eg. control points) and the computation of results (eg. relative orientation) are briefly mentioned. Six elephants were immobilised after being photographed and the measurements obtained from them agreed within a range of 1 cm-10 cm with the photogrammetric measurements.
Classification is instructive – comments on a published table of antelope habitat preferences
Authors: Coetzee B.J
Published: August 2012

Pienaar (1974) showed the habitat preferences of South African antelope species in a two-way table. Rows represent species and columns represent habitats. Matrix entries link species to their preferred habitats (Table 1). Species in Table 1 are in taxonomic order, which has no apparent bearing on their habitat preferences.
Rumen fermentation and methane production in the African Buffalo Syncerus Caffer (Sparrman, 1779) in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Van Hoven W
Published: August 2012

Fermentation experiments were performed on 36 buffaloes Syncems coffer. Body mass varied from 135-580 kg with an average for adults of 500 kg. Net mass of the reticulo-rumen content varied from 14-134 kg with a DM of 14,5. Fermentation rate was found to be 167,08 @ 13,53 fJimo\ gas^TpD/gDM/ hour and an adult of 500 kg produced 317,6 @ of methane per day from the rumen alone. An equivalent of 40,5 of the daily maintenance energy requirement is lost as methane. Caecal gas composition was found to be 60,63 @ 10,69 C02, 19,44 @ 8,0 CH4, 0,33 @ 0,26 H2 and 19,55 @ 11,43 N2. Ruminal gas composition: 73,85 @ 1,91 C02, 25,89 @ 1,79 CH4 and 0,029 @ 0,007 H2. Total VFA concentration, 12,06 @ 1,23 mmol/lOOml.
ŉ Plantekologiese verkenning van die waterberggebied in die Noord-Transvaalse bosveld
Authors: Coetzee B. J , Van Wyk P , Gertenbach W. P. D , Hall-Martin A , Joubert S. C. J
Published: August 2012

Die natuurlike Waterbergplantegroei word kortliks in bree Suid-Afrikaanse verband bespreek. Verskillende plantgemeenskappe is oneweredig oor die Waterberge versprei en bewerkte vlaktes verdeel die gebied in blokke. Die Kransbergblok, wat die grootste verskeidenheid van die betrokke plantgemeenskappe bevat, word vir verdere bespreking uitgesonder. Dit blyk dat die noordelike, sentrale, suidelike en westelike dele van die Kransbergblok onderskeidelik uit uiteenlopende groepe gemeenskappe bestaan. Saam verteenwoordig hulle hulle die gematigde, bergagtige Suurbosveld en sy oorgang na Hoeveldse grasveld goed. Gematigde vlaktebosveld word minder goed verteenwoordig.

The natural Waterberg vegetation is described briefly within the broad South African context. Different plant communities are unevenly distributed over the Waterberg Mountains and cultivated plains divide the area into discrete blocks. The Kransberg Block, which contains the widest selection of relevant plant communities, is singled out for further discussion. It appears that the northern, central, southern and western sections of the Kransberg Block, respectively contain different sets of major community types. Together they adequately represent the temperate, mountainous Sour Bushveld and its transition to Highveld grassveld. Temperate plains bushveld is less well represented.
Cosmocercoid Nematode parasites from Frogs of Southern Africa
Authors: Baker M. R
Published: August 2012

A survey of cosmocercoid nematode parasites of frogs in southern Africa revealed the presence of five species: Aplectana degraaffi n. sp. from Breviceps sylvestris of Transvaal, A. capensis n. sp. from Breviceps rosei and B. montanus of the southern Cape, A. macintoshii (Stewart, 1914), A. chamaeleonis (Baylis, 1929), Cosmocerca ornata (Dujardin^ 1845) from various frog species throughout the region. Aplectana degraaffi n. sp. differs from all other congeneric species in the possession of a characteristic projection on the distal part of the spicule shaft. Aplectana capensis n. sp. differs from the closely related species A. macintosh!! in the morphology and distribution of the caudal papillae in males and the shape of the capitulum of the spicules. Aplectana degraaffi and A. capensis are probably restricted in distribution and evolved respectively as vicariants of the pan-African species A. chamaeleonis and A. macintosh!!.
The movements of a population of Redbilled Oxpeckers (Buphagus Erythrorhynchus) in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Stutterheim C. J
Published: August 2012

The movements of the Redbilled Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus were studied in the Kruger National Park in the period March 1973 to December 1974. The study population at Skukuza showed little or no fluctuations in numbers and no local movements. The maximum distance the oxpeckers were observed away from the trapping station measured 8,0 km with a mean distance of 3,37 km. For two birds circular home ranges of 26 km2 and 27 km2 were calculated.
A preliminary checklist of reptiles and amphibians in the Mountain Zebra National Park
Authors: Grobler J. H , Bronkhorst P. J
Published: August 2012

The following species of reptiles and amphibians have been collected and identified from the Mountain Zebra National Park some 27 km south west of Cradock, R.S.A.
Additions and amendments to the bird and mammal lists of the Mountain Zebra National Park
Authors: Grobler J. H , Bronkhorst P. J
Published: August 2012

The following account updates and amends various previous publications dealing with the birds and mammals of the Mountain Zebra National Park (MZNP). In the case of birds, Roberts' Birds of South Africa numbers are used.
Water Mongoose Atilax Paludinosus in the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park
Authors: Crawford R. J. M
Published: August 2012

In a catalogue of 38 mammals recorded from the Tsitsikamma Coastal and Forest National Parks, Robinson (1976, Koedoe 19: 145-152) mentions only one type of mongoose, the Cape grey mongoose Herpestes pulverulentus. However, Stuart (1981, Bontebok 1: 1-58) also includes the water mongoose Atila-x paludinosus. His list of mammalian carnivores occurring in the Tsitsikamma National Parks other- wise agrees with that of Robinson.
Burrow casts from the Lystrosaurus-Procolophon Assemblage-zone, Karoo Sequence, South Africa
Authors: Groenewald G.H.
Published: August 2012

Five types of burrow casts from the Lystrosaurus- Procolophon Assemblage-zone (Palingkloof Member and Katberg Formation, Triassic, Karoo sequence. South Africa) are associated with casts of desiccation cracks and red mudstone. Vertebrate remains of Lystrosaurus sp. and Procolophon sp. indicate that these animals probably made the burrows during the Triassic. It is possible that burrowing was an adaptive advantage during periods of severe and unfavourable climatic conditions. Similar burrow casts were found in the Dicynodon-Theriognathus Assemblage-zone, suggesting a burrowing habit for fauna represented in this zone. In structure, the burrow casts resemble those of Scoyenia, Thalassinoides, Histioderma, Gyrolithes and Planolites reported from Germany, France, Asia, Ireland, Spain and the United States of America.
Mistletoes, their host plants and the effects of browsing by large mammals in Addo Elephant National Park
Authors: Midgley J.J. , Joubert D.
Published: August 2012

There are at least four plant hemiparasites [=mistletoes, viz. Viscaceae (3 species), Loranthaceae (1 species)] within the Addo Elephant National Park. Highly selective utilisation of these plant parasites by large browsing animals has resulted in severe decline of these plants within the elephant enclosure. The parasites are often associated with spinescent host plants. We suggest this has less to do with escaping herbivory by large mammals and more to do with spinescent plants being optimum hosts because they are a richer nutritient source for plant parasites than most non-spinescent plants.
A preliminary check list of flowering plants of the Vaalbos National Park
Authors: Zietsman P.C. , Du Preez P.J. , Bezuidenhout H.
Published: August 2012

A check list of flowering plants has been compiled for the Vaalbos National Park, comprising 334 species. These species represent 211 genera and 65 families. The Monocotyledonae is represented by 10 families (15,6 of the total number of families) and the Dicotyledonae by 55 families (85,9 ). The life form spectrum of the plants indicates that Vaalbos National Park is a hemicryptophytic-therophytic area.
Diet of bat-eared foxes Otocyon megalotis in the Karoo
Authors: Kuntzsch V. , Nel J.A.J.
Published: August 2012

The diet of bat-eared foxes Otocyon megalotis was studied from March 1988 to September 1989 at two sites near Beaufort West in the central Karoo. In a near-natural habitat (Karoo National Park), insects and wild fruit contributed almost equally to the diet, while more insects than plant material were consumed on a sheep farm (Saucyskuil). Adult and larval Coleoptera (KNP) and Orthoptera (Saucyskuil) were predominantly preyed upon in an opportunistic manner, influenced by food availability. A higher volume of Isoptera was consumed at Saucyskuil, suggesting higher availability in the farming area.
Behavioural adaptations to moisture as an environmental constraint in a nocturnal burrow-inhabiting Kalahari detritivore Parastizopus armaticeps Peringuey (Coleoptera: Tenebrionidae)
Authors: Rasa O.A.E.
Published: August 2012

The nocturnal desert detritivore Parastiz.opus armaticeps shows differences in surface activity patterns and burrow fidelity depending on surface humidity. After rain approximately half of the beetle population, independent of sex, is highly vagile and disperses over long distances. During drought, beetles are more sedentary and show higher burrow fidelity. They also inhabit burrows that are longer and deeper than non-inhabited ones, such burrows being relatively scarce. Burrow fidelity and the adoption of a more sedentary habit during drought are considered strategies to avoid the risks of not locating a suitable burrow before sunrise and subsequent desiccation in shallow burrows.
Rainfall and temperatures during the 1991/92 drought in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Zambatis N. , Biggs H.C.
Published: August 2012

Rainfall and temperatures during the 1991/92 drought, the severest in the recorded history of the Kruger National Park (KNP), are described. Mean total rainfall for the KNP was 235.6 mm (44.1 of the long- term mean), with a median of 239.9 mm. The num- ber of days on which rain occurred also decreased significantly from a mean annual total of 48.3 to a mean of 24.2 in 1991/92. Daily maximum, minimum and average temperatures for some months increased significantly, as did the number of days within certain maximum temperature range classes.
Notes on wild dog Lycaon pictus and lion Panthera leo population trends during a drought in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Mills M.G.L.
Published: August 2012

Wild dog Lycaon pictus and lion Panthera leo populations in the Kruger National Park appeared to undergo an increase during a drought period in the early 1990s. Newly established packs, high adult survival and pup productivity contributed to an increase in the wild dog population and evidence for high predation success during the height of the drought is presented. An increase in the lion density between 1989 and 1993 on the northern basalt plains, as well as changes in the structure of the population, seem to be related to changes in prey populations, particularly to a decline in numbers and condition of buffalo Syncerus cafer.
Water quality in the Knysna estuary
Authors: Russell I.A.
Published: August 2012

Measurements of water temperature, salinity, pH, dissolved oxygen, secchi disk depth, turbidity and total suspended solids were taken monthly in the Knysna estuary between 1991 and 1994. Measurements of turbidity and total suspended solids of waters entering the Knysna estuary via rivers and man-made inlets were also taken on an ad hoc basis. These results are described and compared to published data on past water quality conditions. No clear long-term changes in water quality in the estuary were evident. High inputs of sediments from minor catchments indicate the necessity for remedial actions.
Tooth replacement of tigerfish Hydrocynus vittatus from the Kruger National Park
Authors: Gagiano C.L. , Steyn G.J. , Du Preez H.H.
Published: August 2012

Evidence of tooth replacement was observed in 14 tigerfish which had been caught during the period 1991 - 1993 in the Olifants and Letaba rivers in the Kruger National Park. Replacement of teeth is a quick process (3-5 days) and first replacement of adult coni- cal dentition takes place at six to seven months post hatch, at a body length of 100 mm (FL). Swollen gums are evident prior to tooth replacement and newly erupted teeth are loosely embedded in the gums. Tooth replacement occurs in both the upper and lower jaws simultaneously. It was observed in the laboratory that the feeding behaviour was affected when adult conical dentition was replaced in @ 287 mm (FL) specimens.
Kruger National Park
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: August 2012

Annual Report of the Biologist, 1958/1959
Assessing diet quality of African ungulates from faecal analyses: the effect of forage quality, intake and herbivore species
Authors: Wrench J.M. , Meissner H.H. , Grant C.C.
Published: August 2012

Faecal phosphorous and nitrogen can be used as indicators of the nutritive content of the veld. Dietary P concentrations can be predicted with reasonable accuracy from faecal P concentrations in faeces of caged impala rams using a simple linear regression model, Y = 0.393X (r2 = 0.97). This regression holds whether impala are grazing or browsing as well as for high and low levels of intake. The regression equation used in the prediction of dietary P in zebra, blue wildebeest and cattle, did not differ significantly from this simple regression and a combined regression equation could be formulated. A faecal P concentration of less than 2 g P/kg OM would appear to indicate a P deficiency in most species. The prediction of dietary N is influenced by the intake of phenolic compounds and different regression equations exist for grazers and browsers. For prediction of dietary N concentrations, both the concentration of N and P in the faeces should be taken into account. This multiple regression equation is applicable for grazing impala at all levels of intake. For impala utilising browse, a regression model with faecal Acid Detergent Insoluble Nitrogen (ADIN) and Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL) should be used to predict dietary N concentration. For grazers, a faecal N concentration of less than 14 g/kg DM would indicate a deficiency. Dietary digestibility can be predicted accurately in some species using faecal N, P and ADL concentrations. However, more work needs to be done to quantify their effects.
A visual assessment of vegetation structure for the Kruger National Park
Authors: Kemp A.C. , Begg K.S. , Benn G.A. , Chadwick P.
Published: August 2012

Vegetation structure was assessed visually for 1045 of the 1093 quadrats (2.5' x 2.5', ca 4 x 4 km) that cover the Kruger National Park. Vegetation categories recorded were-woody vegetation (broad-leaved, mopane, fine-leaved, mixed, riparian, treeless, scrub bushes and trees); ground cover (grass, grassless and open areas); and emergent large trees (baobab, live and dead). The results are available as grid maps or as files on the Internet. The categories were selected for their relevance to bird distribution but can be applied to other organisms.
Longidorus jagerae sp.n., another longidorid species with globular inclusions in the prerectum (Nematoda: Longidoridae)
Authors: Heyns J. , Swart Antoinette
Published: August 2012

Longidorus jagerae sp.n. is described from the Western Cape Province, South Africa. It is characterised by the possession of globular inclusions in the prerectum, expanded lip region, posteriorly situated guiding ring, and distinct flanges at the odontophore base. It is compared with the South African species L. fursti and L. mobae, from which it differs among other things in the presence of prerectal inclusions, and with L. pisi and L. latocephalus, from which it can be differentiated mainly by the much longer odon- tostyle, more posteriorly situated guiding ring, and shorter tail.
Survival strategies of sharptooth catfish Clarias gariepinus in desiccating pans in the northern Kruger National Park
Authors: Van der Waal B.C.W.
Published: August 2012

Observations in drying out pans showed that small (26-37 cm) sharptooth catfish (Clarias gariepinus) can hide at the bottom of small pools filled with sticky mud whereas larger fish stay afloat at the surface in larger pools with sloppy mud, where they easily become prey or succumb to heat stress. The inability of larger fish to keep down in the sloppy mud of up to 40 cm depth is the result of their large bulk and high density of the mud. This may indicate a survival advantage for smaller fish in the final dry-out phase of pools and is supported by the presence of only small fish remains in the last drying up pools of dry pans. Another adaptation of smaller fish includes the temporary congregation outside the water enabling concealment under dense vegetation as a means to escape adverse environmental conditions, including high water temperatures and avian predation. The advantage small fish have over larger catfish under these extreme conditions may explain why catfish are known to show a wide variation in growth rate under natural and aquaculture conditions.
The influence of baboon predation and time in water on germination and early establishment of Opuntia stricta (Australian pest pear) in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Lotter W.D. , Thatcher L. , Rossouw L. , Reinhardt C.F.
Published: August 2012

The alien invader weed, Opuntia stricta Haw (family Cactaceae), is seriously threatening biodiversity in veld habitats of the Kruger National Park. Basic biological and ecological information on the establishment, growth and reproduction of the species is necessary for the development of effective strategies for its control. The rapid spread of the plant is apparently mainly due to seed dispersal by baboon (Papio ursinus). Sixty percent of seed taken from baboon faeces resulted in seedlings that established. Although palatability criteria for ripe fruit were more favourable than for unripe or medium-ripe fruit, seed from fruit at all three degrees of ripeness germinated equally well, and seedling establishment was similar. Despite their lower acidity, as well as higher total soluble sugar content and pH, cladodes are not subject to herbivory to near the extent that ripe fruit are. Freshly collected seed kept in Sabie River water showed significantly better germination/emergence after seven days submersion (83 ) than at 14 or 28 days (52 and 66 , respectively). Results suggest that seed dispersal of the species by animals, principally baboon, is an important cause of rapidly expanding infestations, and that dissipation in water will intensify the problem. Current findings should contribute toward the development of long-term weed management strategies aimed at con- tainment/eradication of the weed.
The implementation of an aquatic toxicity index as a water quality monitoring tool in the Olifants River (Kruger National Park)
Authors: Wepener V. , Van Vuren J.H.J. , Du Preez H.H.
Published: August 2012

Large sets of water quality data can leave water quality managers and decision-makers totally overwhelmed. In order to convey the interpretation of the data in a simplified and understandable manner, the water quality results from bi-monthly surveys undertaken at seven different sampling sites in the Letaba, Olifants, and Selati rivers over a two year period (February 1990 to April 1992) were reduced to index values, using a water quality index. The water quality index (Aquatic Toxicity Index or ATI) revealed spatial and temporal trends. The higher index values, recorded for the sampling sites towards the eastern part of the Kruger National Park (KNP), revealed that the water quality was better than the quality measured in the Olifants River on the western bound-ary. The lowest index values were calculated for the Selati River, with index values consistently below 50. Index values indicate that the water quality in the Selati River was unsuitable for supporting normal physiological processes in fish. The water quality of the Selati River had an immediate impact on the water quality of the Olifants River directly below the confluence. Lower index values recorded at sites further downstream was also attributed to the influence of the Selati River since there are no known point sources of contaminants within the boundaries of the KNP. The index scores also elucidated temporal trends with lower scores evident during winter months. This was due to reduced flow in the Olifants River and a greater contribution of contaminated water from the Selati River. Index values increased following the first seasonal rains due to a dilution effect. Very low index values were recorded at certain sites during flood periods due to increased turbidity, reduced oxygen, and increased metal concentrations.
The contemporary geomorphology of the Sabie River in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Heritage G.L. , Moon B.P.
Published: August 2012

The Sabie River in the Kruger National Park has been described as the most pristine in South Africa. It has remained largely free of direct alteration along its 110 km length within the reserve and as such displays a high geomorphic diversity. This physical vari- ability supports a great diversity of flora and fauna including a number of species endemic to the river. The diversity in fluvial form is the result of a high degree of bedrock influence coupled with a rapidly changing energy regime. Steeper bedrockinfluenced areas alternate with more gently sloping alluvial segments to create a series of channel types ranging from bedrock anastomosing through to alluvial single thread and braided sections. Each channel type is part of a continuum that relates to the degree of alluviation of the river on the bedrock template. Descriptions of the characteristic channel types associated with the Sabie River, together with associated morphologic units are given together with the areal extent of the changing morphology in the Kruger National Park. Each morphologic unit is characterised by size, shape, sedimentology and flow influence. Recent research into the degree and direction of morphologic change in the Sabie River is also summarised in the light of possible catchment management.
Manganese, nickel and strontium bioaccumulation in the tissues of the African sharptooth catfish, Clarias gariepinus from the Olifants River, Kruger National Park
Authors: Avenant-Oldewage Annemarie , Marx Hazel
Published: August 2012

The gills, liver, muscle and skin were collected from Clarias gariepinus, during four surveys (February, May, June and November) in 1994 from two sites on the Olifants River in the Kruger National Park. With the use of atomic absorption spectrophotometry, metal concentrations of manganese, nickel and strontium bioaccumulated in these tissues were determined. This information was then used to differentiate between the concentrations found at the two locations and between the four survey periods. The con- centration of the metals were found to be highest in the gills, followed by the liver. This suggests the gills to be the primary uptake tissue for these metals following their intimate blood-water contact. The concentration of manganese and strontium, with particular reference to the gills, showed highest bioaccumulation at Mamba. Very little differences in the nickel concentrations were found at both Mamba and Balule. Water bioconcentration factors for manganese and nickel were much higher than that noted for sediment, suggesting a much lower bioavailability of these metals from the sediment. On the other hand, sediment bioconcentration factors for strontium were generally higher than that for water, which could imply higher bioavailability and concentration from the sediment.
Technique to study the impact of large herbivores on woody vegetation within piospheres
Authors: Brits J. , Van Rooyen M.W. , Van Rooyen N.
Published: August 2012

A continuously sampled transect away from a watering point provides good results in situations where geology and soil type remain constant, but is unsuitable to apply where regular changes in soil type occur. A comparison was made between a continuously sampled transect and sampling taken at intervals along the transect. An analysis of variance indicated no significant differences in any of the variables obtained by means of the two sampling methods. The advantage of interval sampling is that, within each zone, areas with the same soil type can be selected in order to avoid environmental heterogeneity. A comparison between transects made in different directions from the watering point yielded no significant differences in any of the structural variables of the woody vegetation at the same distance from the watering point. Therefore, combining transects from different directions to attain a representative sample away from the watering point was an acceptable practice. It is recommended that the original data be smoothed and the logistic function used to model the impact of large herbivores on the structure of the woody vegetation around watering points.
Development of the tush and tusk and tusklessness in African elephant (Loxodonta africana)
Authors: Raubenheimer E.J.
Published: August 2012

The embryologic development of the tush and tusk of the African elephant was studied by means of serial histologic sections prepared from elephant embryos with masses varying between Ig and 240 g. Statistics on tusklessness obtained during a four year population control programme in the Kruger National Park were analysed and compared with those reported in other elephant reserves in Southern Africa. Maxillae of eight elephant embryos, the maternal histories of which were available in six cases, were radiographed, dissected and examined microscopically. This study has shown that the tush and tusk develop from one tooth germ in a deciduous to permanent tooth relationship. Tusklessness was found to be unilateral or bilateral and associated with either the absence or presence of a tush. The possible causes of the differences in the frequency of bilateral tusklessness in different elephant populations are discussed.
GIS in the South African National Parks
Authors: Kruger Judith
Published: August 2012

Spatial information is fast taking over in everyday working environments.
The environment and vegetation of the flux measurement site near Skukuza, Kruger National Park
Authors: Scholes R.J. , Gureja N. , Giannecchinni M. , Dovie D. , Wilson B. , Davidson N. , Piggott K. , McLoughlin C. , Van der Velde K. , Freeman A. , Bradley S. , Smart R. , Ndala S.
Published: August 2012

The SAFARI-2000 intensive study site is located 13 km WSW of Skukuza. Detailed measurements of the exchanges of energy, water, carbon dioxide and other substances between the savanna and the atmosphere have been made there since April 2000. This paper provides basic information regarding the climate, soils and vegetation at the site. The site is located near the top of a gentle rise in an undulating granitic landscape. Most of the data were collected within a 300 m square centred on the flux tower situated at 25@01.184' S, 31@29.813' E and oriented true north. The tower stands exactly on the ecotone between a ridgetop broad-leafed Combretum savanna on sandy soil and a midslope fme-leafed Acacia savanna on clayey soil. The ecotone is marked by a 10 m wide band of sedges. The tree basal area within the sample square was 6.8 mVha (@ 1.0 standard error), the tree density 128 @ 16 plants/ha and the tree crown cover 24 @ 4 . Shrubs, defined as woody plants greater than 0.5 m but less than 2.5 m tall, contributed a further 7.6 crown cover. The basal area weighted mean height of the trees was 9 m, and the maximum height 13m. Nineteen woody plant species were recorded within the square, with 70 of the woody plant basal area dominated by Combretum apiculatum, Sclerocarya birrea and Acacia nigrescens. The rooted basal area of grasses was 7.1 @ 0.6 and in June 2000 the grass standing crop was 400 g DM m2.
The genus Xiphinema in South Africa. XXVI. New information on X. bolandium, with description of the four juvenile stages (Nematoda: Longidoridae)
Authors: Heyns J.
Published: August 2012

A population of Xiphinema bolandium from the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area in the Eastern Cape Province was studied, and the four juvenile stages described and figured for the first time. New distribution records are listed from several localities in the Western Cape Province, mostly from vineyards and peach orchards, as well as from fynbos.
A comparison of anthropogenic and elephant disturbance on Acacia xanthophloea (fever tree) populations in the Lowveld, South Africa
Authors: Botha J. , Witkowski E.T.F. , Shackleton C.M.
Published: August 2012

Acacia xanthophloea (the ‘fever tree’) is a popular medicinal species that is traded widely in South Africa. Although it occurs throughout southern Africa, there is increasing pressure on its riverine and marshy habitats. This study compares the impact of harvesting on an A. xanthophloea population located on private land near Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, with two protected populations situated within the Kruger National Park. The densities of the harvested and protected populations were similar (84±8 trees/ha and 85±20 trees/ha, respectively). There were fluctuations in the quotients between frequencies of trees in successive diameter classes, which is common in savanna where high levels of fire, mega-herbivore and anthropogenic disturbance are experienced. The extent of stem damage (stripping of bark and breakage) by elephants in the protected area was significantly higher than the extent of harvesting on private land, although the degree of damage was relatively low, with only 7 % of the populations having been damaged at rates >26 %. The degree of harvesting on private land was relatively low, with the majority of trees having been harvested at rates of less than 10 % of the stem below 2 m. Despite this, ringbarking had occurred (4 %). The basal diameters and heights were significantly lower in the protected population than in the harvested one, suggesting that over time elephant impact was the more severe disturbance. Acacia xanthophloea exhibited high resilience to disturbance, with all the elephant damaged trees and harvested individuals surviving. However, the mean bark thickness measured in local markets (6.3±1.4 mm) was significantly lower than that measured in either the harvested (12.4±1.0 mm) or the KNP (10.3±0.8 mm) populations. As harvesters tend to select the largest individuals in a population to maximise their financial returns, this could mean that smaller individuals are being harvested, and/or bark is not being given sufficient time to grow back after harvesting. Acacia xanthophloea outside protected areas thus need to be monitored and the management improved, preferably in conjunction with the resource users. In addition, traditional healers, those selling medicinal plants and other members of the community need to continue to be encouraged to cultivate this fast growing species.
Challenges faced in the conservation of rare antelope: a case study on the northern basalt plains of the Kruger National Park
Authors: Grant C.C. , Davidson T. , Funston P.J. , Pienaar D.J.
Published: August 2012

The conservation of rare antelope has long been one of the goals of the Kruger National Park. The roan antelope Hippotragus equinus, and to a lesser extent the tsessebe Damaliscus lunatus, represent low-density species or rare antelope in the park. Specific management approaches representing the older equilibrium approach, have been employed to conserve these antelope. Of these, the supply of artificial water over many decades was the most resource intensive. The sudden, severe drop in the roan antelope population towards the end of the 1980s was unexpected and, retrospectively, attributed to the development of a high density of perennial waterpoints. The postulated mechanism was that the perennial presence of water allowed Burchell’s zebra Equus burchelli to stay permanently in an area that was previously only seasonally accessible. The combined effect of a long, dry climatic cycle, high numbers of zebra and their associated predators was proposed to be the cause of this decline. As part of the new nature evolving or ecosystem resilience approach, twelve artificial waterpoints were closed in the prime roan antelope habitat in 1994 in an attempt to move the zebra out of this area. The zebra numbers declined as the rainfall increased. Closure of waterholes clearly led to redistribution of zebra numbers on the northern plains, zebra tending to avoid areas within several kilometres of closed waterpoints. However, at a larger scale, regional densities appeared similar in areas with and without closed waterpoints. There was an initial drop in the lion numbers in 1995, after which they stabilised. In spite of an improvement in the grass species composition and an increase in biomass the roan antelope population did not increase. The complexity of maintaining a population at the edge of their distribution and the problems associated with the conservation of such populations are discussed in terms of management options and monitoring approaches that may be employed in this process.
A selective fish mortality and some notes on Rhabdosargus sarba at Kosi Bay, South Africa
Authors: Kyle R.
Published: August 2012

On 6 July 2000, while crossing Lake Nhlange, the largest of the Kosi Bay lakes, several dead fish were seen, lying bloated on the surface. On investigation they were found to be large Natal stumpnose Rhabdosargus sarba. Occasionally, during twenty years of residence at the Kosi lakes, the author has seen individual Natal stumpnoses dead or dying in this lake, particularly in winter, but never so many at one time. On investigation, by questioning other local residents, it was found that the mortality had been taking place for several days and it subsequently extended for at least another 14 days.
Interesting new record and further notes on the occurrence of marine fish in Nyamithi Pan, Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Kyle R.
Published: August 2012

Nyamithi Pan, situated in Ndumo Game Reserve, South Africa, is a floodplain pan near the confluence of the Usuthu and Pongolo rivers. It lies approximately 75 km from the Indian Ocean. The floodplain and its fish have been extensively surveyed (Coke & Pott 1970; Kok 1980; Merron et al 1993, 1994, 1994a, 1994b, 1994c, 1994d; Pooley 1975) and there are many records of the occurrence of marine fish in this and other pans of the Pongolo and Usuthu rivers. These are, however, usually isolated instances of individual fish being caught and attracting attention.
Freshwater fishes of Tsitsikamma National Park
Authors: Russell I.A.
Published: August 2012

This study aimed to determine the distribution and relative abundance of freshwater fishes in the Tsitsikamma National Park. Fish assemblages in six river systems were sampled in 2001, with a total of 323 fish from eight species recorded. Indigenous fish collected included four freshwater species (Pseudobarbus afer, Pseudobarbus tenuis, Sandelia capensis, Anguilla mossambica), three estuarine species (Monodactylus falciformis, Caffrogobius gilchristi, Myxus capensis), and one alien (Micropterus salmoides). One additional indigenous species (Galaxias zebratus) and two aliens (Salmo trutta, Oncorhynchus mykiss) could potentially occur within the park. The topography and locality of the park presents a unique opportunity to meaningfully conserve the endangered P. tenuis as well as other fish characteristic of the eastern reaches of the Cape Floristic Region. Management action is required to minimise opportunities for further establishment and spread of alien fish species and to conserve indigenous fish assemblages within the park.
The application of life history information to the conservation management of Chrysoritis butterflies (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) in South Africa
Authors: Terblanche R.F. , Van Hamburg H.
Published: August 2012

Due to their intricate life histories and the unique wing patterns and colouring the butterflies of the genus Chrysoritis are of significant conservation and aesthetic value. Thisoverview probes into practical examples of butterfly life history research applicable to environmental management of this relatively well-known invertebrate group in South Africa. Despite the pioneer work on life histories of Chrysoritis in the past, more should be done to understand the life history of the butterflies in the wild, especially their natural host plants and the behaviour of adults and larvae. A system of voucher specimens of host plants should be introduced in South Africa. Although various host plant species in nature are used by the members of Chrysoritis, including the Chrysoritis chrysaor group, the choice of these in nature by each species is significant for conservation management and in the case of Chrysoritis aureus perhaps even as a specific characteristic.A revision of the ant genus Crematogaster will benefit the conservation management of Chrysoritis species since some of these ant species may consist of a number of specieswith much more restricted distributions than previously thought. Rigorous quantified tudies of population dynamics of Chrysoritis butterflies are absent and the introductionof such studies will benefit conservation management of these localised butterflies extensively.
Factors that determine the price of game
Authors: Van der Merwe P. , Saayman M. , Krugell W.
Published: August 2012

Fraser (1999) forecasts that South Africa’s tourism industry will grow by more than 5.5 % between 1998 and 2010, which is better than the predicted 4.1% for the global market. It is estimated that arrivals will increase from six million international tourists in 2000 to 30.5 million in 2020 (WTO 2001). The African continent can triple the size of its tourism industry by 2020 if proper efforts are made. This will result in forecast tourist arrivals of 77.3 million to Africa.
Assessing diet in savanna herbivores using stable carbon isotope ratios of faeces
Authors: Codron D. , Codron J. , Sponheimer M. , Lee-Thorp Julia A. , Robinson T. , Grant C.C. , De Ruiter D.
Published: August 2012

In African savannas, browse-based resources (@3 plants) are isotopically distinct from grasses (@4 plants). The carbon isotopic composition of the basic plant diet is recorded in animal tissues. Mammal faeces are a readily accessible, non-invasive, sample material for temporally resolved dietary reconstructions. Faeces, however, include both undigested plant matter and waste, hence accuracy of dietary calculations could potentially be compromised by shifts in plant isotopic values related to seasonal or spatial differences, or by variability in the isotopic differences between faeces and diet. A controlled feeding study of four ungulate species showed a small, consistent difference between diet and faeces of-0.9 o, irrespective of whether the diet was @3 or C4-based. Results from faeces oftaxa known to be pure grazers, pure browsers, and mixed-feeders from the Kruger National Park were entirely consistent with their diets, but the accuracy of dietary reconstructions is enhanced with data from local plant communities.
The diet of kudus in a mopane dominated area, South Africa
Authors: Hooimeijer J.F. , Jansen F.A. , De Boer W.F. , Wessels D. , Van der Waal C. , De Jong C.B. , Otto N.D. , Knoop L.
Published: August 2012

The composition of the plant species eaten by kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) determines the diet quality, which impacts on kudu condition and mortality levels. The yearround diet composition of kudus in the Limpopo Province, a mopane (Colophospermum mopane) dominated area, was determined by faecal analysis. The most important dietary plant species were Colophospermum mopane, Grewia bicolor, Terminalia prunioides, Tinnea rhodesiana, Boscia albitrunca and Combretum apiculatum, with C. mopane comprising on average 39.2 % of diet per month. Small amounts of herbs, grasses and seeds made up the remaining part of the diet. The contribution of C. mopane in the diet was negatively correlated with precipitation. Colophospermum mopane was consumed, irrespective of its high condensed tannin load (5.2–9.8 % DW) for the majority of the months. No seasonally significant differences were detected for modelled kudu diet crude protein, tannin or phenol concentrations. Colophospermum mopane showed significant seasonal differences with lowest values of protein, tannin and phenols in the late wet season. Surprisingly, crude protein concentrations were positively correlated with high levels of tannins and phenols for C. mopane. The diet of kudus comprised of significantly more species during the wet season compared to the dry season. Diet diversification, instead of protein maximization, seems a potential tool to satisfy protein requirements while reducing potential toxic effects associated with a high intake of secondary compounds. A significant positive correlation was therefore detected between the tannin concentration of C. mopane leaves and the number of plant species in the diet.