Quantitative ecological relationships in the alpine grassland of Lesotho*

Based on a thesis by the senior author (see Herbst, 1971).

Abstract

A survey, based on 56 000 points at 102 sampling sites in the Tsehlanyane valley of the Oxbow (Madibamatso) Dam catchment in the alpine grassland of Lesotho, indicates that the area is generally in good condition. Physiographic and floristic criteria were measured and the association between pairs of criteria statistically tested. The simple (126 spp.) alpine vegetation had an average basal cover of 29% and is not significantly influenced by aspect, slope, or altitude within the study area. The effect of these topographic factors on soil surface components, namely, bare soil, organic matter, rock and animal dung and on soil depth, erosion and chemical soil properties, is analysed. The role of the dominant grass species (Danthonia and Harpechloa) is discussed. The vegetation/habitat relationships of the alpine region are compared with results from the adjacent montane region.

Uittreksel

‘n Opname gebaseer op 56 000 punte by 102 monsterneemplekke in die Tsehlanyane‐vallei van Oxbow (Madibamatso)‐dam opvanggebied in die alpiene grasveld van Lesotho, toon dat die gebied in ‘n algemeen goeie toestand verkeer. Fisiografiese en floristiese maatstawwe is gebruik om die verhouding tussen pare van faktore te bepaal. Die eenvoudige (126 spp.) alpiene plantegroei het ‘n gemiddelde basale bedekking van 29% wat nie betekenisvol deur aansig. helling of hoogte binne die studiegebied beinvloed word nie. Die invloed van hierdie topografiese faktore op grondbedekkingskomponente, naamlik, kaal grond, organiese materiaal, rots en dieremis, asook op gronddiepte, erosie en chemiese grondeienskappe is ontleed. Die rol van die dominante grassoorte Danthonia en Harpechloa word bespreek. Die plantegroei/habitat verhoudings van die alpiene gebied word vergelyk met resultate vanaf die naburige montaane‐gebied.

Notes

Based on a thesis by the senior author (see Herbst, 1971).

Present Address: Glen College of Agriculture, O.F.S.