Fertilization of southern tall grassveld of natal: Effects on botanical composition and utilization under grazing

Abstract

The long‐term effects of nitrogen, phosphate and lime on change in botanical composition and utilization under grazing of Southern Tall Grassveld of Natal are presented. Nitrogen, phosphate, lime and type of nitrogen affected botanical composition significantly. Generally, fertilization had the same effect on species composition score as heavy grazing. No change was observed in utilization by the grazing animal as nitrogen was increased, although a nitrogen X phosphate interaction was evident. Utilization by the grazing animal was not related to species composition score (SCS). Consequently, SCS alone cannot be used to predict grazing capacity.     

Research note: Grazing‐index method procedures of vegetation surveys

Abstract

In the past, veld condition in the Karoo was assessed using the ecological index method. This recently changed to the grazing‐index method on account of the differently estimated grazing‐index values being used. The principles governing the method of survey remain the same. The method employs canopy‐spread‐cover strikes to record the species composition of different sites. By appropriate management of these line‐point data, different sites can be compared with one another by employing the Z‐index of agreement (similarity).     

Effect of continuous grazing in the dohne sourveld on species composition and basal cover

Abstract

In a grazing trial conducted at the Dohne Agricultural Research Station, natural grassland was grazed continuously for 36 years with cattle. In a second investigation conducted on similar grassland, paddocks were grazed or rested, in all combinations of the four seasons of the year, over a ten year period. Changes in botanical composition and cover of the sward were monitored at regular intervals. The results of these investigations indicate that under a regime of non‐selective grazing the composition of Dohne Sourveld is remarkably stable. After 36 years of continuous grazing the species composition of the sward was largely maintained. Floristically Dohne Sourveld is dominated by a small number of grass species of which Andropogon appendiculatus, Elionurus muticus, Heteropogon contortus, Sporobolus africanus, Themeda triandra and Tristachya leucothrix are the most important. These species react differently to under‐utilization or increasingly severe defoliation, enabling them to be classified into decreaser or increaser categories. Severe defoliation resulted in a marked decrease in basal cover but only small changes in relative species composition. As the intensity of defoliation increases, decrease in grass cover is associated with an increase of forbs, such as Senecio retrorsus.     

Selecting for palatability in festuca arundinacea schreb

Abstract

Plants of numerous Festuca arundinacea cultivars and strains were evaluated for palatability, using two methods; a relative softness of leaf technique and a grazing technique. The softness of leaf technique, as measured by hand, provided a useful method to distinguish palatable from unpalatable plants. Grazing trials have confirmed a preference for soft‐leafed plants selected in this way.     

Plant and sward response to patch grazing in the Highland Sourveld

Abstract

Selective grazing by livestock inevitably results in patch grazing. This study was initiated to determine the effects of patch grazing on (1) the vigour of a single grass species, Themeda triandra, and of the sward, and (2) sward species composition. The generally held idea that a full season's rest followed by an early spring burn would prevent preferential grazing of patch grazed areas which had developed in the seasons before the rest was also tested. The vigour of 71 triandra was estimated from etiolated growth of marked tufts while sward vigour was indexed by above‐ground herbage production (AGHP). Etiolated growth of T. triandra and AGHP of the sward within patches were negatively affected by three seasons of grazing, but a full season's rest appeared sufficient to restore both the etiolated growth of T. triandra and the AGHP of the sward to a level similar to that in the non‐patches. A full season's rest followed by spring burning did not, however, prevent preferential grazing of grazed patches which had developed in the seasons prior to the rest. Species composition within patches (characterised by Increaser II species) differed significantly from the species composition of non‐patches (characterised by Increaser I species). Patch grazing may therefore initiate the rangeland degradation process in Highland Sourveld and patch grazing may be the focus from which rangeland degradation proceeds.     

The grazing index method of range condition assessment

Abstract

Owing to the difficulty of examining succession theory in the Karoo, it is suggested the ecological index method (EIM), be replaced by the grazing index method (GIM), through the introduction of grazing index values (GIV) for Karoo plant species. The GIM may provide more acceptable range condition scores and more realistic estimates of the current grazing capacity. Using GIVs, arrived at by scoring the agronomic attributes of the plant species (productivity, forage value, perenniality), the estimated current grazing capacities are found to be closely similar to the grazing capacity norms established for the different agro‐ecological areas in the Karoo. The manner in which the range condition survey is conducted and the application of the grazing index method, ensures the computation of a figure representative of the agronomic potential of the area to support livestock. The cover figure and the range condition score determined for a sample site, can be employed in monitoring the trend in changes in the vegetation, brought about by climatic and biotic variables. Grazing capacity norms are closely related to median annual precipitation (r² = 0.98). The GIM is more closely related to grazing capacities than the EIM (r² = 0.96 and 0.68 respectively).     

Plant palatability assessment and its implications for plant‐herbivore relations

Abstract

An objective method used to assess the palatability of the foliage of woody plant species to kudus, impalas and goats is described. Observations were made on the feeding behaviour of tame animals in the Nylslvey Nature Reserve in northern Transvaal bushveld. Seasonal variations in acceptance/rejection frequencies were used to assign plant species to palatability categories, allowing for the effects of thorns on leaf accessibility. Palatable species remained highly acceptable year‐round, while unpalatable species were eaten during restricted time periods. The design of appropriate acceptability indices for particular animal species is discussed. Interrelationships between palatability and leaf chemistry, soil nutrient status and inherent plant growth rates are indicated.     

Short‐term effects of cattle‐to‐sheep ratio and stocking rate on patch grazing in sour grassveld

Abstract

The short‐term effects of stocking rate (AUE ha^?1) and cattle‐to‐sheep ratio on the extent and severity of patch grazing and on patch size were evaluated. The extent of patch grazing was proportional to stocking rate, and livestock species had a small but significant effect. Patch size was also a function of stocking rate. Cattle and sheep had similar effects on patch size distribution when stocked at the same number of AUE ha^?1. The severity of grazing within a patch was influenced by both stocking rate and cattle‐to‐sheep ratio. Recommendations that cattle should be grazed together with sheep and that cattle should be in greater proportion (in terms of AUE ha^?1) than sheep, which are aimed at limiting the severity of grazing by sheep, are supported. However, severe grazing within patches is an inevitable consequence of sheep grazing irrespective of the stocking rate or cattle‐to‐sheep ratio applied.     

Research note: Evaluation of the reliability of local farmer knowledge in Namaqualand,South Africa

Abstract

Local farmer knowledge of species distribution patterns and plant palatability in Namaqualand, South Africa, was assessed using Participatory Rural Appraisal techniques. These findings were compared with the results obtained using phytosociological techniques (species distribution), and with palatability indices published in the literature. It was found that farmers were knowledgeable of species distribution close to the settlement, but less so further away from the settlement. Farmer plant palatability rankings did not correlate well with the palatability indices found in the published literature, which suggests that palatability in semi‐arid regions are locality specific.     

A survey of grazed and ungrazed grassland in the south‐eastern Transvaal highveld 1. Palatability composition and grazing capacity

The floristic composition of selected veld communities which by virtue of their location were ungrazed, but regularly burned, and which were judged to reflect potential floristic composition, was measured at 112 sites in the southeastern Transvaal highveld. At each site the composition of the adjacent grazed veld was also determined. Species were classified as palatable, intermediate or unpalatable and the percentages of these components were calculated for each of the 224 stands. By using previously established weighting values, namely, 3; 2 and 1 for the three components, a weighted palatability composition (WPC) value was derived for each community. Changes in the proportions of the palatability classes along the WPC gradient, as well as the frequency distributions of WPC values and grazing capacity on grazed and ungrazed stands, are presented.     

Plant species dynamics in the Southern Tall Grassveld under grazing,resting and fire

An analysis of temporal changes in botanical composition in a long‐term grazing trial indicates that species dynamics in the Southern Tall Grassveld of Natal are determined by the specific combination of grazing, mowing and fire impacts. Species composition of a grazing systems trial was recorded at intervals during 16 years, and in the 14 years following the removal of herbivores, during which time the experimental area was burnt periodically. Site trajectories in ordination space facilitated the assessment of the nature, magnitude and rate of species composition change under various combinations of impacts. Under rotational grazing and mowing, botanical change was minimal, both during the grazing and the subsequent rest and fire phases of the trial. It is suggested that the interruption of continuous grazing at a high stocking rate by a seasonal rest (rotational resting) promoted the invasion of the sward by Aristida junciformis. This also occurred in the continuously‐grazed treatment at a high stocking rate when stock were removed from the treatment and periodic burning was introduced. It appears that swards dominated by A. junciformis remain stable under a rest and burning regime.     

Sequence and process of species selection by cattle in relation to optimal foraging theory on an old land in the Natal Sour Sandveld

The sequence in which cattle grazed four grass species during a grazing period was monitored at four stages through the grazing season. Data collected revealed that: (i) species could be classed as being of preferred, avoided or intermediate acceptability, (ii) grazing of classes always proceeded in a set sequence; cattle first grazed preferred, then intermediate classes but largely resisted grazing avoided species, (iii) classes were grazed at different rates through the grazing period, (iv) utilization of intermediate and avoided classes was largely dependent on the extent of grazing of preferred species and exhibited a threshold relationship and (v) observed trends were in general agreement with those predicted on the basis of optimal foraging theory. The data suggests that non‐selective grazing systems may be based upon faulty grazing philosophy.     

Influence of stocking rate and grazing system on plant basal cover and botanical composition of veld in the northern cape 1

Abstract

Changes in basal cover and botanical composition were recorded at four stocking rates, both under continuous and rotational grazing in the Northern Cape. The experiment was conducted with cattle. Results suggested that heavier stocking rates could be applied under rotational grazing than under continuous grazing without veld deterioration occuring. After four seasons, botanical composition deteriorated only under continuous grazing. Plant basal cover decreased significantly at the heavy stocking rates, both under rotational and continuous grazing. This result illustrates the danger of grazing strategies based on an injudicious increase in stock numbers.

Basal cover was found to be a better indicator of trends in veld condition than botanical composition, despite annual fluctuations resulting from rainfall variability. Changes in the botanical composition apparently occur only where veld deterioration is more advanced.     

Identification and selection of benchmark sites on litholitic soils of the western grassland biome of South Africa

Abstract

An approach to identify benchmarks for different ecological situations in the grassland biome is described. The approach is illustrated by using information on vegetation change, role of habitat factors and the relative palatability differences between the species of the vegetation on shallow soils of the litholitic complexes in the western parts of the grassland biome. The information was obtained from the ordination and interpretation of vegetation and habitat data gathered at different distances from watering points and in vegetation under different grazing pressures.     

Veld condition in the south‐eastern Transvaal and its effect on grazing capacity

Abstract

A survey conducted on sites throughout the south‐eastern Transvaal, representing 1,4 million hectares of natural veld has confirmed the parlous state of composition, cover and vigour. The implications which these conditions hold, not only for conservation of soil and water resources, but also for the livestock industry in this area, with specific reference to the current grazing capacity of the veld, are discussed.     

The production,digestibility and chemical composition of five ecotypes of Anthephora pubescens Nees on three soil types

Abstract

Production, digestibility of OM and chemical composition of five promising Anthephora pubescens Nees ecotypes (VH4, VH7, VH9, VH17 and VH20) at two fertiliser levels were compared on a soil of the Mangano, Annandale and Sunbury series.

The highest dry matter yield was obtained from VH7 and VH20. Ecotypes VH20 and VH17 established best, while VH4, VH20 and VH17 had a better leaf to stem ratio than VH7 and VH9. The differences in chemical composition (P, K, Ca, Mg and Zn), crude protein content and digestibility between ecotypes were not large. The highest number of grazing days and a grazing capacity of 2,68 ha/LSU at a high grazing intensity, was recorded for the ecotype VH20 in the ripe‐seed stage. The relatively high protein content (14,1%) and digestibility (69,9%) of grazing material, collected by oesophageally fistulated steers indicated a pasture of potential.     

Evaluation of veld potential in east griqualand using beef cattle under two grazing management systems

Abstract

Beef production from veld, in the short term, was found to be greater under a continuous grazing system than under a rotational grazing system. Average daily gains decreased from a maximum in late‐spring and the highest three‐year mean value was 0,5 kg/animal/day. Livemass gains/ha were highest at a stocking rate of 2,2 animals/ha and were 131,4 kg/ha under continuous grazing and 88,6 kg/ha under rotational grazing. Estimated mean maximum gains/ha were 0,78 kg/ha/day at a stocking rate of 2,5 animals/ha under continuous grazing and 0,55 kg/ha/day at a stocking rate of 1,7 animals/ha under rotational grazing. However, optimum economic stocking rates were estimated to occur below those where beef production/ha was maximum.     

Grass species composition,yield and quality under and outside tree crowns in a semi‐arid rangeland in south‐western Zimbabwe

Abstract

A two‐year study was conducted in lightly grazed areas of Matopos Research Station, Zimbabwe, to evaluate the impact of widely spaced trees on understorey grass composition, yield and quality. The study trees were Terminalia sericea and Acacia karroo. Ordination techniques using grass density and biomass as indices separated quadrats according to soil type but not grass species according to understorey or open areas or according to tree species. Grass yield under tree crowns was similar to open areas, in contrast with most reports where understorey areas had higher yields. The high understorey grass quality that has been reported from savanna areas exhibiting grass composition differences was not expressed. Selective grazing of palatable perennial grasses growing in association with tree crowns and their eventual replacement by low‐yielding and less‐palatable grasses that normally grow in open areas is proposed as an explanation of the unique tree‐grass interaction scenario of this study. In areas where this replacement has occurred, recovery may require management interventions.     

Perspective article: Simulation models for semi‐arid rangelands of southern Africa

Abstract

In semi‐arid regions, the effects of grazing or sparing management on natural communities of long‐lived plants generally take decades to become evident. Event‐driven dynamic behaviour, unpredictable and low rainfall, and complicated interactions between species make it difficult to gather sufficient understanding of vegetation dynamics to be able to develop guidelines for sustainable management. Simulation models that consider the essential processes that determine vegetation dynamics offer scope for quantitatively exploring long‐term vegetation dynamics of arid and semi‐arid rangelands. In this paper we review three models that were aimed to provide an understanding of the vegetation dynamics and management of different typical vegetation types in South Africa, including the Karoo shrubland, the shrub‐grassland of the southern Kalahari, and pure semi‐arid grasslands.     

岷江上游山地牧道对林下草本群落分布特征的影响

以岷江上游干旱河谷/山地森林交错带的林下草本层植物群落为研究对象,以牧道为切入点,通过跟踪放牧和样方调查,应用关联和典范对应分析方法探讨山地牧道与草本层群落分布特征的关系。结果表明,牧道样地草本层中耐践踏的菊科占绝对优势,禾本科和豆科植物较少,说明长期放牧下草本层植被有退化趋势。通过9个优势种种间关联分析发现,野艾蒿和老芒麦代表了人工林样地群落特征,黄花蒿、紫苜蓿等其他7种优势种代表了灌丛样地特征,各优势种均表现出环境适应的趋同性和彼此的相似性。牧道分割增加了草本层植物群落分布的异质性,牧道格局指数与草地质量指数基本呈负相关变化规律,而牧道密度与草地质量指数之间的相关性不明显,牧道密度和牧道格局具有一定的指示草地退化的作用,但相互关系复杂。通过CCA排序可知,乔灌层盖度是影响草本层植物分布的最重要因素,其次为牧道密度,坡度和坡位对其分布也有一定的影响。