Global Journal of Biology, Agriculture & Health Sciences

Abstract

Does Illegal Harvesting of Woody Plants Influence Physiognomic Status and Woody Vegetation Dynamics in Lochinvar National Park?

Chansa Chomba,Tokura Wataru2

A survey of the physiognomic status of woody vegetation types in Lochinvar National Park, was carried out to determine; i)distribution, ii)species composition, iii) incidences of tree cutting and soil erosion as a consequence of illegal uses of trees by humans. Quadrats were laid out every 100 m along transects placed 250 m apart and aligned East-West direction. Tree species encountered were identified and measured. Results showed that there were six vegetation communities; i) Brachystegia woodland, ii) Diplorynchus woodland, iii) Combretum/Pericopsis/Xeroderris mixed woodland, iv) Mopane, v)Thicket, and vi) Other. Tree cutting and soil erosion incidences were common 98 and 97points (36% of the sites) respectively. It was concluded that woody vegetation had experienced high illegal off-takes and measures were required to curb the trend. Further research is required to investigate the proportional impact of each human use and influence of late fires which consume tree remnants after desirable parts of the tree have been collected.

Published Date: 2014-10-06;