bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blue duiker Philantomba monticola densities in the Tsitsikamma National Park and probable factors limiting these populations
Authors: Hanekom N. , Wilson V.
Published: August 2012

Numbers of blue duikers recorded on 157 and 28 variable width transect counts, done over a two year period in the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park (TCNP) and Tsitsikamma Forest National Park (TFNP) respectively, did not differ significantly {P > 0,10) with seasons (summer v. winter). Population density estimates from transects were similar to those from game drives (0,18 v. 0,19 duikers/ha (TCNP) and 0,13 v. 0,17 duikers/ha (TFNP); P >0,10), higher than from faecal pellet counts (P < 0,10) and at least three times lower than estimates from the Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve and Umdoni Park in Natal. Factors contributing to the low population densities in the Tsitsikamma national parks were investigated. Twentyseven and seven percent of leopard (25) and caracal (12) scats respectively analyzed contained blue duiker remains, but predator numbers appear to be low. Forest characteristics were investigated, and results from this and other studies suggest that undergrowth cover does not markedly influence blue duiker densities in the southern Cape forests. Field and stomach analysis indicate that blue duikers feed primarily on freshly fallen leaves and fruit, and are selective foragers. In the Tsitsikamma national parks (TNPs) the frequency of occurrence of trees known to be palatable to duikers are low, while less than 45 percent of the dominant tree species fruit fully annually. This apparent scarcity of food, the low numbers of antelope species and individuals in these forests and results from duiker research in Zaire, suggest that habitat rather than predation is limiting duiker numbers in the Tsitsikamma national parks.
The impact of the provision of water for game on the basal cover of the herbaceous vegetation around a dam in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Thrash I. , Nel P.J. , Theron G.K. , Bothma J. Du P.
Published: August 2012

A line intercept survey was done on the herbaceous vegetation in permanently marked plots at distance intervals from the Wik-en-Weeg Dam, Kruger National Park, in 1973. The survey was repeated in 1990 so that changes in basal cover could be determined in relation to distance from the dam. Positive relationships with distance from the dam were found for the relative total percentage basal cover of the herbaceous vegetation, as well as for the relative basal cover of, respectively, grasses, forbs, decreasers and increasers. It was concluded that the provision of a permanent supply of drinking water for game in the Wik-en-Weeg Dam has had an impact on the nearby herbaceous community basal cover composition, as well as a negative impact on the basal cover of the herbaceous vegetation in the vicinity. The basal cover of the herbaceous stratum was more sensitive to the effect of the dam than parameters of the woody stratum.
A provisional check list of the reptiles and amphibians of Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Authors: Bates M.F.
Published: August 2012

A provisional check list of 26 reptile and amphibian species (8 frog, 8 lizard and 10 snake species) occurring in Golden Gate Highlands National Park is presented. The list does not reflect the results of an intensive survey, but is a record of specimens collected in the park and preserved at the National Museum, Bloemfontein.
The concept of life: on the social role of conservation areas
Authors: Fourie J.
Published: August 2012

Attention is drawn to the interaction between wildlife areas and surrounding rural Third World communities. The differences between the needs of such communities and those of First World visitors to wildlife areas are outlined. Although incorporating the needs of Third World rural communities is very important, these needs are often neglected. The importance is stressed of wildlife managers becoming involved in the upliftment of their neighbouring communities. The concept of life is used as a holistic approach to develop a set of guidelines by means of which wildlife managers could work out a suitable approach for upliftment programmes. The needs of such communities are investigated with reference to the various levels of life, viz. the biological, the social, the ecosystem and the spiritual levels. Guidelines for addressing these needs are discussed. Finally, the conclusion is made that wildlife managers cannot afford not to get involved in the rural development programmes in their regions.
The African Elephant as a Game Ranch Animal
Authors: De Graaff G.
Published: August 2012

The Wildlife Group of the South African Veterinary Association (SAVA) was constituted in the beginning of the 1970s by a number of persons interested in theoretical and practical aspects of wildlife {sensu lato), wildlife diseases, and the handling of game and wild animals {^ensit stricto}.
Description of two new Ogma Southern, 1914 species (Nemata: Criconematoidea) with a list of plant-parasitic nematode species from Natal
Authors: Van den Berg Esther
Published: August 2012

Two new O^nia Southern, 1914 species are described and figured from Giant's Castle Nature Reserve, Kamberg Nature Reserve and the Royal Natal National Park. O^ma naomiae spec. nov. females are characterised by having 10 to 12 longitudinal rows of scales on 63 to 69 retrorse body annuli; scales haphazardly arranged on first nine to 10 annuli; scales mostly with two projections, becoming longer toward tail end; all scales with minute protuberances on outer edges; lip region with one annulus with a greater diameter than first body annulus. Juveniles with 14 to 16 longitudinal rows of scales on 73 to 76 retrorse body annuli; each scale bearing five to seven sharply pointed processes; one lip annulus with an equal diameter to first body annulus. O^ma ueckermanni spec. nov. females are characterised by eight longitudinal rows of rounded scales on 60 to 67 body annuli becoming longer toward tail tip where they bear two, three or four-pronged processes; roughly sculptured recessed part of annulus extends to follow the outline of the scale almost forming a pillar between two succeeding scales; one lip annulus with a greater diameter than first body annulus; raised labial area with six pseudolips and no submedian lobes; margin of lip annulus with rounded tooth-like projections; stylet 49,3 to 60,7 ^m long. A list is given of the 16 known plant-parasitic nematodes found in these areas.
Macrolaimus richteri spec. nov. (Nematoda: Chambersiellidae) from the Richtersveld, South Africa
Authors: Swart Antoinette , Heyns J.
Published: August 2012

Specimens of Macrolaimus richteri spec. nov. were examined with the aid of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and some hitherto undescribed features of Macrolaimus were discovered. The sense organs are arranged in an inner circlet of six huge outer labial setae, a second circlet of four small cephalic setae and two pore-like amphid apertures in the first annule posterior to the head. The stomatal opening is surrounded by six flap-like lips covering the peculiar triangular cheilorhabdions which seem to be protmsible. The prominent anterior lip of the vulval opening is ornamented with about ten horizontal grooves. Distinctive characters ofM. richteri spec. nov. are the strongly annulated cuticle, slightly dorsad curved tail terminus and the length of the cheilorhabdions (1,6-1,8 times prorhabdion length).
Second cumulative index to Koedoe volumes 26-35/1 (1983 - June 1992)
Authors: Rautenbach J.C.
Published: August 2012

index to Koedoe: volumes 26-35/1 Authors ..............131Aves ..............143 Subjects ...............139Mammalia ...........144 Botany ..............139Archaeology and History .....146 Ecology and behaviour ......140Bibliography ...........146 Wildlife conservation & techniques141Geology and Pedology ......146 Zoology ..............142Maps ...............147 Invertebrata ..........142Palaeontology ...........147 Pisces ..............143Law ................147 Amphibia ............143Social Science ...........147 Reptilia ...... ^ ......143Parks (vol 26-35/1,) ..^.^^ ..147
Diets of Diplodus sargus capensis and D. cervinus hottentotus (Pisces: Sparidae) on the Tsitsikamma coast, South Africa
Authors: Mann B.Q. , Buxton C.D.
Published: August 2012

Diets of Diplodus sargus capensis and D. cervinus hottentotus, sampled on the Tsitsikamma coast, are described. D. sargus was a generalist, feeding on a wide variety of reef associated invertebrates and algae. D. cervinus was more of a specialist feeding on comparatively few prey groups, the most important being polychaetes and amphipods. Juveniles of both species showed considerable spatial and dietary overlap, feeding predominantly on amphipods, polychaetes and harpacticoid copepods. Larger fish showed an increase in the range of prey species taken and dietary overlap was diminished. The dietary differences between these two species are thought to contribute to greater abundance and habitat range in D. sargus.
New reptile records from three southern national parks
Authors: Branch W.R. , Haagner G.V.
Published: August 2012

Distribution Note
Reptile fauna of the Katse Dam catchment area and a biogeographical assessment of species composition in the Lesotho Highlands
Authors: Mouton P. Ie F.N. , Van Wyk J.H.
Published: August 2012

A survey of the reptile fauna of the Katse Dam catchment area in the Lesotho Highlands was conducted to assess the possible impact of the dam, once it is full, on reptile populations in the area. With only seven lizard and five snake species recorded to date, species richness in the catchment area is much lower than expected. It is inferred that species richness in the western and central districts of the Lesotho Highlands in general, is low, emphasising the role of the Drakensberg-Maluti mountain complex as a barrier to species dispersal. The reptile fauna of the western/central highland areas is primarily composed of widespread generalist species. The eastern highland areas, on the other hand, have a substantial endemic component. indicating the greater potential of these areas as a conservatory of geographical isolates. The direct impact of the Katse Dam on the local reptile fauna is expected to be minimal. Snake numbers are low in the catchment area and this may be the result of human impact. Reproductive cycles of the lizard species in the catchment area do not differ from the cycles of the same species at lower altitudes elsewhere.
Herbivore dung deposit counts around drinking troughs in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Thrash I. , Theron G.K. , Bothma J. Du P.
Published: August 2012

The density of deposits of dung of indigenous large herbivores was measured in transects starting at drinking troughs in the Kruger National Park. The aim was to test whether a relationship exists between intensity of (large indigenous) herbivore use and distance from drinking troughs. There was a significant positive relationship between intensity of herbivore use and'distance from the troughs. The variance was too high, however, to detect relationships at individual transects or to warrant further modelling of the relationship. It was concluded that there was indeed a slight concentration of large herbivore rangeland use around the troughs.
Body measurements of mountain reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula from Rolfontein Nature Reserve, South Africa
Authors: Andersen M.D. , Koen J.H.
Published: August 2012

Morphometric data of 92 adult mountain reedbuck are presented. Males were significantly heavier than females, and the tails of the males were significantly longer than those of the females.
Major P.J. Pretorius and the decimation of the Addo elephant herd in 1919-1920: important reassessments
Authors: Hoffman M.T.
Published: August 2012

Between June 1919 and August 1920, the largest population of elephants in South Africa at the time was reduced from about 130 to 16 individuals by one man. Major P. J. Pretorius. Conflict between farmers and the elephants over dwindling water resources, coupled with the threat that the elephants posed to the future agricultural development of the region, precipitated the Provincial Administration's extermination order. Major Pretorius' figure of "120-odd" elephants killed during the year is reasonably accurate and the fate of the animal products is traced. Most of the skins were processed, by Pretorius himself, to make whips. A few specimens can be traced to local and overseas museums. Because records of the sex and age of animals killed by Major Pretorius have either been lost or were never detailed, reconstruction of the Addo elephant herd before the decimation, is difficult. Finally, details of the alleged public debate are discussed. It is concluded that it was probably a handful of individuals that convinced the Provincial Administration to spare 16 animals. The Rev J.R.L. Kingon as well as Major Pretorius himself are two key figures in the debate. There is little evidence to confirm the view that a public outcry, in the modem sense of the word, stopped the killing. Six photographs are included as an appendix. They show Major Pretorius at work in the Addo Bush.
Disturbance bias when tracking Kalahari leopards Panthera pardus by spoor
Authors: Bothma J. Du P. , Le Riche E.A.N.
Published: August 2012

The possible habituation of leopards to spoor trackers or increased disturbance by trackers affecting leopards in the Kalahari was examined. The median flight distance class interval was 0,6-1,0 km and there was no evidence of either habituation or increased disturbance.
Range extension of Ceratogyrus sanderi Strand, 1906 (Araneae: Theraphosidae)
Authors: Fitzpatrick M.J.
Published: August 2012

The range of the baboon spider Ceratogyrus sanderi Strand, 1906, previously only known to occur in Namibia, has been extended into the northern and western regions of Zimbabwe.
The use of the Global Positioning System for real-time data collecting during ecological aerial surveys in the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Viljoen P.C. , Retiff P.F.
Published: August 2012

The use of the Global Positioning System (GPS) for real-time data collecting during ecological aerial surveys (EAS) in the Kruger National Park (KNP) was investigated as an alternative to post-survey manual data capture. Results obtained during an aerial census of large herbivores and surface water distribution in the northern part of the KNP using an onboard GPS connected to a palmtop computer are discussed. This relatively inexpensive system proved to be highly efficient for real-time data capture while additional information such as ground velocity and time can be recorded for every data point. Measures of distances between a ground marker and fix points measured during a flight (x = 60.0 m) are considered to be well within the requirements of the EAS.
Range use by an adult male caracal in the southern Kalahari
Authors: Bothma J. Du P. , Le Riche E.A.N.
Published: August 2012

Caracal, Felis caracal, Kalahari, range, aerial tracking.
Arthropod burdens of impalas in the Skukuza region during two droughts in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Horak I.G. , De Vos V. , Braack L.E.O.
Published: August 2012

Ixodid ticks and lice were collected at monthly intervals from March 1980 to February 1981 from impalas of all ages and both sexes in Landscape Zone 4 (Thickets of the Sabie and Crocodile Rivers) in the south-west of the Kruger National Park. Similar collections were made from adult animals in extremis in the same landscape zone during October and November of the drought of 1982 as well as from 15 to 22-month-old male impalas examined at monthly intervals from March to October of the drought of 1992. The louse burdens of the adult animals examined during the 1982 drought were significantly greater than those of adult animals examined during the same months of 1980, a year of normal rainfall. The tick burdens were also larger, but not significantly so. The tick and louse burdens of the young impalas examined during the drought of 1992 were significantly smaller than those of animals of the same age examined during 1980.
The phytosociology of the western section of Borakalalo Nature Reserve
Authors: Brown L.R. , Bredenkamp G.J. , Van Rooyen N.
Published: August 2012

As part of a vegetation survey programme for conservation areas in South Africa, the plant communities of the western section of the Borakalalo Nature Reserve were investigated. From a TWINSPAN classification, refined by Braun-Blanquet procedures, 19 plant communities, which can be grouped into eleven major groups, were identified. A classification and description of these communities, some of which have a karoo affinity, are presented. The diagnostic species, as well as the prominent and less conspicu- ous species of the tree, shrub, herb and grass strata are outlined. A vegetation map is included.
Acrobeles farzanae spec. nov. and Seleborca complexa (Thorne) from the West Coast National Park and Rocher Pan Nature Reserve (Nematoda: ephalobidae)
Authors: Heyns J.
Published: August 2012

Acrobeles fananae spec. nov. is described from two localities on the west coast of South Africa. The new species is characterised by body length of 0.7-0.8 mm; relatively slender, cylindroid body, abruptly ventrally bent in vulval region; vulva with protruding lips and situated in a sunken area; three incisures in lateral field; and cuticle with an intricate interlocked block-like pattern. Additional data is presented on the morphology of Seleborca complexa (Thorne, 1925) collected in the same area.
A process supported by the utility BBPC for analysing Braun-Blanquet data on a personal computer
Authors: Bezuidenhout H. , Biggs H.C. , Bredenkamp G.J.
Published: August 2012

Many South African vegetation scientists use utilise the Braun-Blanquet methodology. The main aim of this paper is to describe an affordable, rapid and efficient process for analysing Braun-Blanquet phytosociological data sets on a personal computer. It describes a suite of utilities joining various phases and this makes the entire process possible.
Identification of the Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus by the use of natural tail marks
Authors: Swanepoel D.G.J.
Published: August 2012

The tail marks of 190 Nile crocodiles Crocodylus niloticus were documented and processed into codes. The size of the crocodiles varied from 45 cm to 4.6 m in total length. Wherever possible, both sides of the tails were observed and the marks documented. In all remaining instances only one side could be identified. A total of 267 sides were identified. The natural marks on nine segments of a specific portion of the tail was recorded and compared as codes. For this comparison two methods were employed. Differences of 95.1 and 100 was found with the respective methods. This is an indication that every crocodile has a unique pattern of natural marks on its tail. The marks can therefore be used to allocate a code to an individual crocodile that partially eliminates the necessity of artificial marking methods.
The reproductive behaviour of the suni Neotragus moschatus zuluensis in captivity
Authors: Pretorius Quarta , Pretorius B.P. , Dannhauser C.S.
Published: August 2012

The suni breeding project at Punda Maria was initiated in 1989. The program provided useful data on the reproduction of the species in captivity.
Environmental factors that affect the concentration of P and N in faecal samples collected for the determination of nutritional status
Authors: Wrench J.M. , Meissner H.H. , Grant C.C. , Casey N.H.
Published: August 2012

Faecal samples have been proven to be valuable in determining the nutritional status of wild herbivores. It is often, however, difficult and impractical to collect dung as it is dropped. In this study, the effect of various environmental factors that may influence P and N concentrations in faeces were investigated. Factors examined were rain, age of samples, presence of dung beetles, method of storage, length of storage, the effect of fungal growth (mould) on poorly dried samples, and drying period of samples. Results indicate that samples should only be collected from fresh dung pads that are still wet and which show no signs of dung beetle activity. Collecting of samples shortly after a rain storm should be avoided. Samples can be air-dried in a ventilated room or oven-dried at 60 @C without any effect on the nutrient concentrations, but care must be taken to avoid fungal growth during the drying period. Dried samples can be stored in paper bags for up to 1 year before analysis. The individual variation in P concentration is larger in browsers than in grazers and more samples should thus be collected from browsers to be representative of the herd when samples are pooled. During the period of this study, no difference between males and females was found and samples representing the herd can therefore be collected randomly. Faeces from juvenile impala are only representative of the herd once they have been weaned.
Multivariate analysis of the hunting tactics of Kalahari leopards
Authors: Bothma J. Du P. , Van Rooyen N. , Le Riche E.A.N.
Published: August 2012

The hunting tactics of male and female leopards in the southern Kalahari were analysed for prey-specific patterns. The field study was based on tracking leopard spoor in the sandy substrate of the Kalahari. Visual profiles for each type of prey were compiled for various facets of hunting. Data sets were analysed further, using Correspondence Analysis and Detrended Correspondence Analysis. The results indicate that multivariate analysis can be used to demonstrate prey-specific hunting tactics in Kalahari leopards. In using a scarce prey base, Kalahari leopards seem to be number maximisers as they are unselective of prey type, age or sex. The presence of prey-specific hunting tactics may indicate a move along a continuum towards some degree of energy maximisation.
Bio-accumulation of selected metals in African sharptooth catfish Clarias gariepinus from the lower Olifants River, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Authors: Du Preez H.H. , Van der Merwe M. , Van Vuren J.H.J.
Published: August 2012

The level of metal (Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) bio- accumulation in tissues (muscle, gill, kidney, liver and gonads) and bile of the African catfish Clarias gariepinus, from the lower Olifants River was investigated. These metals were detected in all the tissues as well as in the bile, with the highest concentration found in either the gills, liver or gonadal tissue. The lowest concentration was usually detected in the muscle tissue. Although statistic comparisons revealed no significant differences between the localities, fish from the Selati River (Locality 1) generally had higher metal levels than fish from the localities along the Olifants River inside the Kruger National Park. The higher levels in the fish from the Selati River may be attributed to anthropogenic activities resulting in point and/or diffuse sources of metal pollution. These sources should be identified and reduced.
The nature and modelling of piospheres: a review
Authors: Thrash I. , Derry J.F.
Published: August 2012

Gradients in utilisation pressure tend to develop around watering points because water dependent herbivores are forced to congregate within a maximum distance of about 10-15 km from water in the dry season. Artificial watering points cause previously migratory or nomadic indigenous large herbivores to become sedentary, so that natural grazing patterns are disrupted. Under this altered grazing pattern, piosphere patterns tend to develop in herbaceous species composition, range condition, grass production, plant biomass, understory cover, standing crop and basal cover. In areas with large populations of elephants the density and canopy cover of trees is directly proportional to distance from watering points. In the absence of elephants an increase in woody plant density and canopy cover tends to occur in a zone just beyond a sacrifice area. Soil erosion, compaction and capping tend to occur at watering points on soils containing clay and silt. Artificial watering points are advantageous to the non-mobile water dependent large herbivore species and disadvantageous to the water independent large herbivore species. The processes underlying piosphere development and maintenance are numerous and diverse. While being parsimonious treatments of a complex system, conceptual models do provide a reasonable basis upon which to design an improved understanding. The logistic curve has been proposed as a convenient tool for estimating piosphere dimensions, but ignoring the 'best-fit' regression model for a piosphere data set may be an inaccurate practice. A large number of gradient models have been developed, each an attempt to shed some light on the behavioural response underlying what appears to be a complex grazing pattern. Several system models that take piosphere effects into account have been constructed. Some of these produce good simulations of herbaceous materi- al dynamics and especially good simulations of bush dynamics.
Comparison of classifications commonly used as templates for management, scientific and GIS work in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Solomon M. , Zambatis N. , Biggs H.C. , Mare N.
Published: August 2012

The two major land classification systems used in the Kruger National Park are discussed with respect to their development, sub-classification, scale, as well as current and potential usages. Their relatedness to one another, as well as to six other broad scale vegetation classifications is investigated and major similarities and differences are pointed out.
Developing partnerships in a paradigm shift to achieve conservation reality in South Africa
Authors: Els H. , Bothma J. Du P.
Published: August 2012

In South Africa, communal rural community development has, for the most part, been viewed as an add-on, rather than as an integral value in the broad spectrum of conservation activities being practised in the country. This paper, therefore, argues for the reality-based adoption of an extension of existing conservation paradigms to incorporate the development of communal rural communities as an integral part of the overall wildlife conservation and management policy in South Africa. The answer to the seeming contradiction in the focus of wildlife conservation and rural development lies in the devel- opment of wildlife management programmes based on multi-disciplinary and multiinstitutional interaction, by also harnessing scientific knowledge and skills found in the social sciences. In this manner, the present largely lip service related to so-called com- munity participation in wildlife management can be changed into programmes which really achieve conservation-based community development enhancing survival for both the communities and their inherent natural resources.
The genus Discolaimus in Southern Africa. I. Introduction and redescription of D. krugeri Furstenberg & Heyns, 1966 (Nematoda: Dorylaimida)
Authors: Heyns J.
Published: August 2012

A survey of the literature leads to the conclusion that males are rare or absent in about half of the known species of Discolaimus and probably seldom functional, except in two species where spermathecae are present in the female reproductive system, viz. D. krugeri and D. levinae. The structure of the female gonads and the location of the oesophageal gland nuclei are discussed. A redescription of D. krugeri is given, based on material from several localities in South Africa as well as a single male from Namibia.
Nesting ecology of Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus) in the Olifants River, Kruger National Park
Authors: Swanepoel D.G.J. , Ferguson N.S. , Perrin M.R.
Published: August 2012

Data on the nesting behaviour of Crocodylus niloticus along the Olifants River in the Kruger National Park were collected over a period of six years (1993 to 1998). A total of 165 nests were investigated for soil type, exposure to sunlight, distance to and above water, presence of other nests and vegetation. An attempt was made to determine important factors in the placement of nests, and exposure to sunlight, vegetation and distance to water seemed to be crucial in selecting a nesting site. During the last two seasons 20 nests were opened and the nest contents recorded. Some 795 eggs were measured and the data compared to similar studies in Africa. No significant differences were found. A strong correlation was found between egg mass, length and female size with larger females producing larger eggs. Rainfall influenced the size of nesting females as only larger females (>3 m TL) nested during the dry year. Breeding females along the Olifants were overall larger (TL) than in Zimbabwe with 2.1 m as the smallest and 4.1 as the largest females that nested.
The estimation of herbage yields under fire and grazing treatments in the Mountain Zebra National Park
Authors: De Klerk J. , Brown L.R. , Bezuidenhout H. , Castley G.
Published: August 2012

The application of fire as a management tool is often used to change the species composition of the vegetation and its cover to maintain plant communities in a specific successional stage. This study investigates the influence of two fire treatments (a head and a back fire) on the plateau grassland communities in the Mountain Zebra National Park (MZNP). The production of herbage yield on grazed areas and areas protected from grazing which were subjected to two fire treatments, were compared with that of an unburnt control area subjected to grazing in the same homogenous grassland over two growing seasons. No differences were found in herbage production between the two fire treatment areas. After the burn the grazing exclosures achieved the same herbage yield as the control area within two growing seasons. In comparison, the grazed areas could after the burn only achieve a herbage yield equal to 55.7 of that of the control area. The results indicate that fire stimulates active vegetation growth on the plateau grasslands in MZNP leading to a higher production rate and better utilisation by game.
The contemporary geomorphology of the Letaba River in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Moon B.P. , Heritage G.L.
Published: August 2012

The Letaba River drains part of Northern Province in north-east South Africa. Its catchment has been modified significantly by human activity which has affected the flow regime; it experiences only ephemeral flows through the Kruger National Park to its confluence with the Olifants River. Although the Letaba is similar to the other rivers in the Kruger National Park in that it displays some bedrock influenced channel features, increased sediment delivery from the degraded catchment upstream has resulted in extensive alluviation within the channel. Sections of channel flowing over bedrock with no sediment covering are rare, and the river comprises a series of channel types: mixed anastomosing, alluvial braided, mixed pool-rapid and alluvial single thread. Each is characterised by a different combination of morphological units which relate to the degree of alluviation in the channel. These channel types are described in detail and inferences are made concerning their formation and maintenance from field observation and measurement.
Role of delinquent young "orphan" male elephants in high mortality of white rhinoceros in Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa
Authors: Slotow R. , Van Dyk G.
Published: August 2012

We describe white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) mortality at Pilanesberg National Park, South Africa, focussing on mortality caused by African elephant (Loxodonta africana). We reconstructed records from a range of historical sources, and estimated that up to 49 rhino were killed by elephant. There was confirmed mortality in 1994 and 1996, and based on patterns, we suggest a set of rhino mortality from elephant in 1992. Both sexes and all age classes were victims. There was no significant bias to older animals, but given the rhino population structure, there was a significant bias towards males in adult deaths. The culprits were identified as young male elephants that entered musth about 10 years younger than expected, and maintained musth for a full term at first occurrence. We attributed this to the lack of a mature bull hierarchy in the park, because these elephants were the product of translocation of young animals (<10 years old) remaining from culls in Kruger National Park. We emphasise the need for accurate monitoring and record keeping, and a focus on individual identification of key species in small reserves.
The February 2000 floods on the Letaba River, South Africa: an examination of magnitude and frequency
Authors: Heritage G.L. , Moon B.P. , Large A.R.G.
Published: August 2012

Accurate estimates of the magnitude of the floods that affected southern Africa in February 2000 are difficult to obtain since floodwaters damaged the majority of gauging stations on affected rivers. It is possible to estimate the peak discharge experienced in the Letaba River in the Kruger National Park by simulating the hydraulic and geometric characteristics of the peak flow and relating these to the roughness of the channel. Peak water surface slope data were determined from debris and mudline measurements at breaks in channel type. These data are combined with published high-flow channel resistance coefficients for different channel types to generate peak flow estimates for eleven different cross-sections, located between tributaries to allow for sub-catchment contributions to be estimated. In February 2000 flow peaked at approximately 4000 nWs near to Black Heron Dam (in the west of the park), and increased to approximately POOOm^s just upstream of the confluence with the Olifants River. Comparison with gauge records indicates that the February 2000 peak was higher than any flow during the proceeding four decades.
An inventory of medicinal plants traded on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, South Africa
Authors: Botha J. , Witkowski E.T.F. , Shackleton C.M.
Published: August 2012

The World Health Organisation estimates that traditional medicine still plays a vital role in the lives of 70-80 of the populations of developing countries. Approximately 20 000 tons of medicinal plants are estimated to be traded in South Africa annually, resulting in considerable pressure on the wild populations from which these plants are harvested. In 1997, a study was initiated to assess the extent of trade in medicinal plants on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, and to determine local perceptions of the availability and values of these plants. This paper presents an inventory of the species traded, including vendors' and traders' perceptions of current availability of species and consumer demand, as well as price/kg. In Mpumalanga, 176 species were identified (71 of the vernacular names encountered in the market place), representing 69 families. In Northern Province, 70 different species were identified (84 of the ver-nacular names recorded in the markets), representing 40 families. Perceptions of availability of a species varied considerably, often within the same markets. Perceptions of demand tended to be more consistent, although these also sometimes varied. Although monitoring markets is an efficient means of assessing the conservation status of medicinal plants, it is important to select appropriate parameters. Markets often differ from one another, and an understanding of local conditions is crucial. For example, in the medicinal markets on the western boundary of the Kruger National Park, price/kg and market perceptions of availability of species were highly variable and would thus not provide a consistent monitoring parameter. Perceptions of demand provide an indication of current and potential pressure on a species, particularly when combined with the monitoring of species traded, and the introduction of substitutes in the market place. The size of plant parts traded could also provide useful monitoring data. It is important to identify the plants utilised locally first hand where possible, due to the variation of vernacular names from one area to another.
Spotted hyaenas Crocuta crocuta prey on new-born elephant calves in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Authors: Salnicki Julia , Teichmann Marion , Wilson V.J. , Murindagomo F.
Published: August 2012

Spotted hyaena Crocuta crocuta are known to be opportunists and to have a varied diet including mammals, reptiles and birds. Prey most often hunted are medium sized ungulates but spotted hyaenas will on occasion take larger species such as giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis and zebra Equus burchellii. They are also known to hunt whichever species are most abundant and will vary their prey seasonally. In this study spotted hyaenas were observed to take an unusual prey species in the form of elephant calves (Loxodonta africana). On a number of occasions hyaenas were observed feeding on or killing newborn and very young elephant calves. These observations were made whilst the authors were conducting research on spotted hyaena ecology in the woodlands of Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe and were made during the dry season between September and November 1999.
The effect of neighbouring klipspringer on the scent–marking behaviour of a group of klipspringer in the Kruger National Park
Authors: Kruger M. , Bothma J. Du P. , Kruger J.M.
Published: August 2012

Both the male and the female klipspringer scent-mark their ranges. A pair of pre-orbital glands below the eyes produces the scent. The secretion is a sticky, substance that is deposited on a suitable twig. Klipspringer scent marks were surveyed in a specific klipspringer range in the Kruger National Park with the use of a strip transect method. The results showed that klipspringer in the Kruger National Park scent-mark more frequently on the boundaries of their ranges and also more on those sides where there is another resident klipspringer group.
More information from the mark and recapture of fish at Kosi Bay, South Africa
Authors: Kyle R.
Published: August 2012

A considerable amount of work has been carried out on the mark and recapture of fish at Kosi bay (Kyle 1986). This resulted in the publication of data (Kyle & Robertson 1997) suggesting fairly low rates of exploitation by man but warning that further information was needed to confirm apparent levels. Fish marking has been ongoing (Kyle 2000) and results of more recent mark and recaptures are given here.
The vegetation of three localities of the threatened butterfly species Chrysoritis aureus (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
Authors: Terblanche R.F. , Morgenthal T.L. , Cilliers S.S.
Published: August 2012

The vegetation and habitat characteristics of three localities of Chrysoritis aureus at theAlice Glockner Nature Reserve, Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve and Malanskraal farmnear Heidelberg in South Africa, were compared. A numerical classification technique,TWINSPAN, was used and refined by using Braun Blanquet procedures to classify thevegetation at the different localities. A DCA ordination was applied to confirm theresults of the classification. Although the general vegetation structure at the three habitats of Chrysoritis aureus were found to be similar, marked differences in the floristiccomposition were evidenced. A different sub-community, compared to the vegetation atSuikerbosrand and Alice Glockner Nature Reserve, was recorded at the Malanskraalhabitat of Chrysoritis aureus. These differences in floristic composition, but with similarities in vegetation structure, indicate the possible importance of fire for the ultimatesurvival of these butterflies in the Rocky Highveld Grassland. The host plant ofChrysoritis aureus, Clutia pulchella, collected at Malanskraal differed markedly andconsistently in their morphology, compared to the individuals from the habitats atSuikerbosrand and Alice Glockner Nature Reserve. These differences in the floristiccomposition of one of the habitats compared to the others, raise research questions concerning the butterfly metapopulation structure, since the subpopulations seem to beadapted to slightly different habitat conditions. The variation in the habitat suggests thatthe “last remaining locality scenario” for other localised butterflies in South Africa, suchas  Orachrysops niobe, needs to be redressed. Management strategies are addressedwhile the importance of conserving rare, localised ecosystems are highlighted by thephytosociological study
Short-term vegetation change on rehabilitated peatland on Rietvlei Nature Reserve
Authors: Venter C.E. , Bredenkamp G.J. , Grundlingh P-L.
Published: August 2012

Natural peatlands occur on the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. Before the Pretoria City Council acquired the land, these peatlands were mined by private land-owners. Ditches were constructed to drain the area for mining and the peatlands became desicrated. Later the area was proclaimed as a nature reserve and has since then been managed as such. Rehabilitation of the drained peatland on Rietvlei Nature Reserve first started in 2000 as a Working for Water project. The aim of the rehabilitation was to close the ditches and rewet the peatland, to enable possible revival of the peatland. A baseline vegetation survey was undertaken during the summer (March to April) of 2001 to determine the nature of the pioneer communities that established on the rehabilitated area. This survey was repeated during the summer (March to April) of 2002 to detect changes in the vegetation. The same sample plots were used on both occasions. The initial pioneer vegetation was mostly composed of weedy annuals.
The status of and some notes on the Gaboon adder Bitis gabonica in northern KwaZulu/Natal, South Africa and southern Mozambique
Authors: Kyle R.
Published: August 2012

A lot of work has been carried out on the Gaboon adder (Bitis gabonica) in KwaZulu/Natal (see Botbijl 1994a, 1994b), but the status of the snake has remained unclear.
Plant nematodes in South Africa. 7. A check list of plant nematodes from the Fynbos Biome, with a description of Helicotylenchus curatus sp. n.
Authors: Marais M. , Van der Berg E. , Swart A. , Tiedt L.R.
Published: August 2012

Plant nematodes recorded during surveys in the Fynbos Biome are listed and a new Helicotylenchus species is described. Helicotylenchus curatus sp. n. is characterised bystylet length (42-46 μm in females, 37-40 μm in males), presence of two rudimentary subdorsal and two rudimentary subventral lobes on the labial disc, first lip annulus divided into six sectors, presence of fasciculi and presence of males. Nine families represented by 32 genera and 152 species were identified from the Fynbos Biome. The generaCriconema, Helicotylenchus, Hemicycliophora, Rotylenchus, Scutellonema and Xiphinema were found in more than 30 % of the localities, whereas Caloosia, Criconemoides, Ditylenchus, Geocenamus, Hemicriconemoides, Heterodera, Hoplolaimus, Longidorus, Meloidogyne, Mesocriconema, Ogma, Paralongidorus, Paratrichodorus, Paratylenchus, Pratylenchoides, Pratylenchus, Rotylenchulus, Trichodorusand Tylenchorhynchus were found at fewer localities. The genera Anguina, Hirschmaniella, Histotylenchus and Zygotylenchus were each identified from a single locality.
Macro-channel riparian vegetation of the Olifants River System in the Grassland Biome, Mpumalanga
Authors: Myburgh W.J. , Bredenkamp G.J.
Published: August 2012

The vegetation associated with the macro-channel of the Olifants River System was investigated to identify plant communities mappable at a spatial scale of 1:250 000. The results obtained by using the PHYTOTAB PC-classification and mapping program package, revealed eight distinct plant communities associated with the macro-channel of this river system that occurs within the Grassland Biome.
Community involvement in the development of an environmental education programme: the Tswaing meteorite crater conservation area as a case study
Authors: Swanepoel C.H. , Loubsser C.P. , Schaller E.M.J.C.
Published: August 2012

A key requirement for the relevance of applied research in education is its actual impact on society. A case study was undertaken to determine how research insights could be implemented by involving a local community in the design and implementation of environmental education programmes in their environment. The Tswaing Meteorite Crater conservation area project was undertaken with the active participation of teachers, learners and education officers from the communities living around Tswaing, as well as subject specialists. Issues which should be considered in the development of similar programmes were also highlighted.
The phytosociology of the Vermaaks, Marnewicks and Buffelsklip valleys of the Kammanassie Nature Reserve, Western Cape
Authors: Cleaver G. , Brown L.R. , Bredenkamp G.J.
Published: August 2012

Long-term conservation ecosystems require a broader understanding of the ecological processes involved. Because ecosystems react differently to different management practices, it is important that a description and classification of the vegetation of an area are completed. A vegetation survey of the valley areas of the Kammanassie Nature Reserve was undertaken as part of a larger research project to assess the environmental impacts of large-scale groundwater abstraction from Table Mountain Group aquifers on ecosystems in the reserve. From a TWFNSPAN classification, refined by Braun-Blanquet procedures, 21 plant communities, which can be grouped into 13 major groups, were identified. A classification and description of these communities, as well as a vegetation map of the different areas are presented. Associated gradients in habitat w ere identified by using an ordination algorithm (DECORANA). The diagnostic species as well as the prominent and less conspicuous species of the tree, shrub, forb and grass strata are outlined. The study also resulted in a total number of 481 species being identified and the discovery of a new Erica species. These vegetation surveys and descriptions provide baseline information for management purposes and that allows monitoring as well as similar surveys to be conducted in future.
Height, branch-free bole length and bark thickness for six tree species used medicinally in South Africa
Authors: Williams V.L. , Witkowski E.T.F. , Balkwill K.
Published: August 2012

Information on tree stem characteristics and dimensions is sparse, especially information that would enhance conservation and trade monitoring efforts for species where bark is harvested for medicinal use. Several tree stem characteristics were investigated during a study on the relationship between bark thickness and stem diameter, and this paper presents the mean height, branch-free bole length and wet and oven-dry bark thickness per stem diameter-class for six species. Additionally, prediction tables are constructed that allow bark thickness to be determined from diameter at breast height.