Spatial and temporal heterogeneity of woody vegetation along park boundary and the possible causes: A case study of Umfurudzi Game Park and adjacent communal lands

Abstract

Although national parks have been established across Africa to protect areas from deforestation and to conserve biodiversity, they are not immune to disturbances outside and inside their boundaries. A study on spatial and temporal heterogeneity of woody vegetation was carried out along the boundary of Umfurudzi Game Park. Sampling was done at the four corners of the park. The study considered soil factors as determinants of woody species distribution. Data were analysed in Genstat software package, Microsoft Excel and Past software Package. Marked differences in woody vegetation structure and composition and soil characteristics were observed along Umfurudzi Park boundary. The differences were attributed to both human and natural factors. A progressive increase in vegetation disturbances within the buffer zone was noted for the period 1985-2010. Agriculture was concluded to be the main possible cause of vegetation disturbances along Umfurudzi Park boundary