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1
Steynberg, Peter John. "A survey of San paintings from the southern Natal Drakensberg." Thesis, Rhodes University, 1988. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1004918.
Full textAbstract:
From Introduction: The study of San rock art has undergone several different phases in approach to the interpretation of art. Two approaches are currently in use. The first emphasises the art as narrative or literal representations of San life and its proponents may be called the "art for art's sake" school. Adherents to the second approach make detailed use of the San ethnography on the belief system of these people and are highly critical of the literalists because they provide no such context. The second approach has rapidly gained ascendancy and replaced the "art for art's sake" school over the last twenty years. The watershed came with the researches of Vinnicombe (1967) in the southern Drakensberg and Maggs (1967) in the Western Cape who both embarked upon programs of research which had quantification and numerical analysis at their core, so that they could present "...some objective observations on a given sample of rock paintings in a particular area..." in order to compare and contrast paintings from geographically different areas. What Vinnicombe's numerical analyses clearly showed was that the eland was the most frequently depicted antelope and that it must have played a fundamental role "...in both the economy and the rellgious beliefs of the painters...", which opened up the search for what those beliefs might be and how they could be related to the rock art itself. In order to understand what the rock art was all about it was recognised that researchers had to meaningfully contextualise the art within the social and religious framework of the artists themselves. Without the provision of such a relevant context, as many different interpretations of the paintings could be made as there were people with imaginations. Such a piecemeal approach provides a meaningless jumble of subjective fancy which tells us something about the interpreters but nothing about the rock art. It is unfortunate that the advent of this explicitly social and anthropological approach marks the end of the amateur as a serious interpreter of San rock art, for the juxtaposition of the ethnography with the rock art requires a proper training in which the intricacies of symbol and metaphor can be recognised.
2
Kruger, David Johannes Donnavan. "Tadpole morphology of high altitude frogs from the Drakensberg mountains / D.J.D. Kruger." Thesis, North-West University, 2010. http://hdl.handle.net/10394/4464.
Full textAbstract:
This study resulted from the identification of gaps in the literature pertaining to the morphological
descriptions of the tadpoles occurring at high altitudes in the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa.
These tadpoles are exposed to low temperatures, high desiccation risk, elevated ultraviolet radiation,
competition, and predation and inhabit the clear, flowing streams and marsh areas of the mountain.
Highly varying environmental conditions caused tadpoles to have considerable intraspecific variation.
The high degree of plasticity necessitated extensive descriptive studies of tadpole morphology in order to
document intraspecific variation and set up reliable keys for species identification. Specified adaptations
to the extreme montane conditions are present in tadpoles of certain species. An especially interesting
adaptation is the elygium, a hemispherical pigmented area above the eye, which apparently protects the
retina from harmful ultraviolet radiation. There are no known studies of elygium plasticity in tadpole eyes
in relation to variation in ultraviolet radiation. Particular attention was given to the functionality and
cytology of this structure. Detailed measurements of tadpoles of six frog species of the high altitude
Drakensberg Mountains were made. Morphological adaptations were described on the basis of these
measurements. The cytological origin of the elygium of Amietia vertebralis was revealed through
histological and cellular ultrastructure studies. The change in elygium morphology over time was studied
as a function of ultraviolet intensity by exposing tadpoles to different levels of ultraviolet radiation. From
the detailed morphological descriptions a more reliable binomial key was constructed, which made it
possible to distinguish between Amietia umbraculata and A. vertebralis. A new amended definition of the
epidermal elygium can now be given as an area of melanophores originating from the pigmented
epithelium of the retina, forming a hemispherical shape from the dorsal margin of the iris. It is positioned
in such a way as to protect the retina when light enters directly from above. This empirical study of the
functional significance of the elygium showed that elygium morphology was considerably plastic, and
that there were differences in elygium area and base length in the presence or absence of UVB radiation.
In the presence of high UV radiation tadpoles produced an elygium with a broader base rather than longer
elygia with a larger area. A wider elygium base shaded the pupil more effectively, thus protecting the
retina from harmful UV radiation. The presence of a ventral elygium was also discovered.Thesis (M.Sc. (Environmental Science))--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2011.
3
Morris, Dale Brett. "The Drakensberg rock-jumper: ecology and genetic status of isolated montane populations." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1007696.
Full textAbstract:
The Drakensberg rock-jumper (Chaetops aurantius) is a high-altitude passerine endemic to South Africa and Lesotho, living along a highly disrupted portion of the southern Great Escarpment from the Drakensberg highlands in the north-east to the Sneeuberg in the west, above an altitude of 1500 m. Along with the Cape rock-jumper (C. frenatus), this genus provides one of the stronger faunal links between the floristic biomes known as the Drakensberg Alpine Centre (DAC) and the Cape Floristic Region (CFR). Despite this, there is a significant lack of information regarding the species. The great majority of information is based on incidental observation, and no dedicated study has been undertaken. I conducted a series of field excursions between January 2011 and November 2012 in order to explore the rock-jumper’s feeding ecology, diet, habitat usage and genetic diversity. By trapping the birds, I was able to mark them individually with unique colour ring-combinations, and pluck a tail feather for genetic analyses. Observational data reveal that birds living close to their lower altitude threshold (c. 1500 m) are strongly habitat specific, living in boulder fields dominated by grassy vegetation. However, in areas at higher elevations (c. 2000 – 2500 m) this restriction seemed to fall away, possibly as a result of farming practices in those areas – higher grazing pressure results in shorter grass and less foraging effort for the birds. They live in groups ranging from pairs to small family groups of up to twelve individuals and maintain year round territories. Territory defence takes the form of calling and displaying from a prominent rock or boulder and becomes particularly noticeable just prior to, and during, the breeding period. No colour ringed individuals were ever spotted in boulder fields outside from where they had been initially ringed. This, coupled with the behaviour of territory maintenance, suggests a strongly sedentary lifestyle. Genetic inferences are constrained by a small sample size (only 25 birds were caught), but results indicate that some genetic isolation is occurring – a single haplotype was exhibited in birds from across the southern Escarpment, while seven private haplotypes show that any genetic mixing is likely to be historical rather than current. Historical gene flow would most probably have occurred during the last glacial maximum (18 000 years before present), when the cooler, drier conditions which are currently restricted to high peaks would have been much more extensive, thereby decreasing the distance required for effective dispersal. This is in agreement with the observation results, concluding that although there has been movement of birds across the southern Escarpment in the past, it does not appear to be occurring currently. However, this does leave plenty of scope for further work, particularly in the genetic diversity of the species, and in expanding the ecological observations to include the breeding biology.
4
Tshivhandekano, Pfarelo Grace. "Ant diversity and body size patterns across an altitudinal gradient in the Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2014. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/79787.
Full textAbstract:
Patterns of invertebrate species richness and body size across elevational gradients have been well-documented in a variety of studies. However, very little is known about the factors that govern these patterns along elevational gradients. A number of studies have have reported a monotonic decrease in species richness with increasing elevation; while others have observed a hump-shaped pattern, where the peak of species richness occurs at an intermediate elevation. For body size, studies have recorded larger size at higher elevations; some smaller and some have recorded no change across elevational gradients. Even though these patterns have been well-documented, the majority of them did not study invertebrates. This is surprising given that invertebrates such as ants are widely regarded as powerful monitoring tools in environmental management because they are abundant, diverse, easy to sample, sensitive to perturbation and they can indicate long-term general ecosystem change. Elevational gradients are isolated fragmented, spatially complex, comprise harsh environmental conditions and often retain comparatively intact habitats. The steep elevational gradients enable species to track climatic changes over short distances. Temperature varies across elevational gradients and variation in rates of growth and development at different temperatures may lead in differences in the mean body size of an insect species along elevational gradients. Body size can also be associated with species range size and geographic patterns of distribution and diversity. Ant diversity and body size patterns were investigated using data collected during March and November 2011 across an elevational gradient at Mariepskop. Pitfall traps were used to sample ants at five elevational sites and environmental variables were also collected at each sampling site. Body size was measured for some of the individuals selected from all ant species collected and simple regressions were used to examine altitudinal body size patterns within and across species. A total of 92 ant species were collected from 30 genera. Ant species density decreased monotonically with increasing elevation and abundance also declined as elevation increased. Altitude, vegetation complexity, height of grass, proportion of bare ground and clay in the soil were the five environmental variables that contributed significantly to the variance explained in the ant assemblages. Body size increased with altitude within species for Plagiolepis sp. 45, Pheidole sp. 1, Monomorium sp. 12 and Tetramorium sp. 3. No body size relationship was established across species when using the across species method whereas the Stevens method indicates a decrease in body size with elevation. A number of factors are responsible for structuring ant assemblages and body size along elevational gradients and it is not easy to establish to what extent each of the factors is responsible for the variation. Factors such as availability of resources, starvation resistance, accelerated maturation and adaptation to local environment are associated with positive relationship between body size and altitude. Related mechanisms such as desiccation resistance, metabolic rate, competition and predation contributing to the observed responses to elevation are discussed.Dissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2014.
Department of Agriculture
National Research Foundation (NRF)
Zoology and Entomology
MSc
Unrestricted
5
Bijker, Hermina Johanna. "A Hydrological-slope stability model for shallow landslide prediction in the Injisuthi Valley, KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/29748.
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Nel, Werner. "On the climate of the Drakensberg rainfall and surface-temperature attributes, and associated geomorphic effects /." Thesis, Pretoria : [S.n.], 2007. http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-01252008-164156/.
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7
Challis, Sam. "The impact of the horse on the AmaTola 'Bushmen' : new identity in the Maloti-Drakensberg mountains of southern Africa." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2008. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.711605.
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8
Meyer, Leon Nicolaas. "Seasonal variation and the influence of environmental gradients on Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis infections in frogs from the Drakensberg mountains / Leon Nicolaas Meyer." Thesis, North-West University, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10394/5098.
Full textAbstract:
The Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis fungus has been implicated in the decline of many frog species as well as the extinction of some throughout the world. Apart from this, declines in some amphibian populations are also caused by variations in temperature. It has been proposed that the cause of the decline or apparent extinctions of at least 14 high elevation species of the Australian tropics were due to B. dendrobatidis. The main aim of this study was to determine the effect of seasonal variations on B. dendrobatidis infections and the influence these have on frog populations in the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa.
In one part of this study, frog populations from different altitudes in the Royal Natal National Park and Mont-aux Sources in the Drakensberg region were monitored; Hadromophryne natalensis from low altitude sites and Amietia vertebralis from high altitude sites. Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis was detected in the field by using a 10x hand lens and in the laboratory with a compound microscope. No mortality has yet been observed in H. natalensis, but A. vertebralis is disease-susceptible and die-offs do occur. Most of the mortalities have therefore occurred at high altitudes where temperature levels vary from cold to moderate. This pattern of susceptibility with regard to altitudinal gradient is reflected in case studies from the Australian and American tropics. Although B. dendrobatidis is prevalent throughout the year at both high and low altitudes, prevalence levels peak in winter and spring. It is important for conservation strategies of montane amphibian communities to determine whether the observed mortalities constitute evidence of actual declines or whether these can be regarded as part of natural fluctuations in population size. Although no declines have been observed as yet, the chance exists that declines could occur because A, vertebralis is susceptible to the pathogen.
Another part of this study was conducted with emphasis on the breeding behaviour of A. vertebralis which is a semi-aquatic, high-elevation frog endemic to the Drakensberg Mountains and the Lesotho highlands. This species breeds in slow-flowing streams and associated pools with sandy bottoms. Published data indicates that breeding occurs after the first spring rains in September and continues until March. The objective of this part of the study was to gain insight into the breeding biology of A. vertebralis by studying empirical data gained from its tadpoles. Tadpoles were collected on a bimonthly basis over a two-year period for staging and measurement. Casual observations on adults and egg clutches were also documented.
Contrary to what has been documented, amplecting A. vertebralis pairs were observed as early as July; however, this could be an indication that they are opportunistic breeders. Tadpoles of different lengths and stages were collected throughout the year, supporting the notion that these frogs have an extended breeding season or that the breeding season is correctly described in the literature, but the development of the tadpoles takes place over an extended period of time.
A preliminary study was conducted on the distribution of B. dendrobatidis along an altitudinal transect. Frogs were collected and DNA swabs were taken of each specimen and analysed with qPCR sequencing. Infection was found at every site across the transect except for one. Altitude did not play an influential role in infection levels of this pathogen. Rainfall had a negative correlation with prevalence at some stages when floods occurred, otherwise prevalence increased gradually according to rainfall. Temperature did influence prevalence infections, but a consistent pattern according to correlation with prevalence infections was not observed. In conclusion, chytrid has a widespread distribution across southern Africa and has no preference to infect only certain species. Most of the species that have been sampled were found to have been infected.Thesis (M. Environmental Science)--North-West University, Potchefstroom Campus, 2009.
9
Ndlovu, Ndukuyakhe. "Incorporating indigenous management in rock art sites in KwaZulu -Natal /." Thesis, Rhodes University, 2005. http://eprints.ru.ac.za/1380/.
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10
King, Rachel. "Voluntary barbarians of the Maloti-Drakensberg : the BaPuthi chiefdom, cattle raiding, and colonial rule in nineteenth-century southern Africa." Thesis, University of Oxford, 2014. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.669789.
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11
Kück, Karen Melody. "Periglacial features in the vicinity of Tiffindell Ski Resort, North East Cape Drakensberg, South Africa, and their implications for the development of the resort." Thesis, Rhodes University, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1005520.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis provides a description of the periglacial environment and features in the vicinity of Tiffindell Ski resort, on the slopes of Ben MacDhui (3001.2m.), the highest point of the East Cape Drakensberg, South Africa. Active and inactive periglacial features were located, mapped and described. Of particular interest were periglaciar slope deposits including gelifluction turf-banked lobes and stone lobes, and cryoturbation features including polygons and thufur. Local environmental factors, such as aspect, moisture, topography, soil texture and depth of freezing, appear to act as important controls on the spatial distribution of the periglacial features. Identification and quantification of periglacial processes in the regolith was investigated using temperature and soil moisture sensors coupled to dataloggers. Research was undertaken over a 16 month period from June 1995 to September 1996 so that comparisons between the winter conditions of 1995 and 1996 could be drawn. The Tiffindell area was observed to be characterised in the winter months by 'diurnal freezethaw days', as well as by 'ice days', 1996 experiencing colder temperatures than 1995. With more than 78% of the days from May to September 1996 being 'ice days', and simultaneously experiencing high soil moisture contents, freezing penetration to a depth of greater than 0.2m was observed to occur in the Tiffindell area, causing frost heave and gelifluction. The summer thaw of ice lenses that developed in the cold winter months caused surface movement downslope of gelifluction lobes of up to 39mm over an 18 month period, although movement declined rapidly with depth and was essentially restricted to the uppermost 130mm of the regolith. Other features such as sorted and non-sorted polygons and thufur were identified and found to be active under the present climatic conditions and depth of frost penetration at Tiffindell. Stone lobes were identified on the south and southeast-facing slopes at Tiffindell, but are apparently inactive under present climatic conditions. Their existence suggests the presence of severe seasonal frost in the past. The implications of the air and ground surface temperatures, and of seasonal frost penetration for the development of Tiffindell Ski resort were considered, and suggestions regarding their economic significance are presented.
12
Pretorius, Ilze. "Dynamical downscaling of prevailing synoptic-scale winds over the complex terrain of Mariepskop, South Africa." Diss., University of Pretoria, 2013. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/41196.
Full textAbstract:
Mariepskop (direct translation: “Marieps hill”) forms part of the northernmost edge of the Drakensberg Mountain range in the east of South Africa, and is known for its complex topography associated with meso-scale atmospheric circulation, and therefore its numerous climatic zones. As a result the mountain hosts a high degree of biodiversity. The peak of Mariepskop lies at approximately 1900m Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL), which is higher than the surrounding escarpment to the east bordering the Highveld. Its foothills also extend well into the Lowveld at about 700m AMSL. Mariepskop is therefore ideal for studying airflow exchange between the industrialized Highveld and the Lowveld with its diversity of natural resources. It is also ideal for detecting global warming signals on altitudinal gradients extending from the Lowveld to altitudes above the Highveld escarpment. In this study, long-term National Centre for Atmospheric Research / National Centre for Environmental Prediction (NCAR/NCEP) reanalysis wind data at two atmospheric pressure levels (850hPa and 700hPa), as well as reanalysis near-surface temperature data, were obtained for the Mariepskop region for the austral summer (and winter) seasons. The data was used to force a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model (also known as STAR-CCM+) across its lateral boundaries with the dominant synoptic flow in order to generate mesoscale simulation output over the complex terrain of Mariepskop. Wind speed and direction modelled results were then correlated to observations measured by three weather stations on Mariepskop. Modelled wind flow results for the summer simulation were also validated against aerial photographs in order to infer whether the model could accurately capture areas with high rainfall, which are related to denser vegetation.Dissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2013.
gm2014
Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology
unrestricted
13
Marsh, Patricia Beryl. "Regional temperature and precipitation trends in the Drakensberg alpine and montane zones: implications for endemic plant species." Thesis, 2017. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/24993.
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A research report submitted to the Faculty of Science, University of the Witwatersrand,
Johannesburg, in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Masters of Science by
Coursework and Research Report.
Johannesburg
November 2017.Mountains are complex environments owing to their varying topography and geographic range, and as a result are havens for a variety of eco-systems and biodiversity. Mountain systems around the globe are potentially transforming due to increasing pressure from human-driven climate change. The possible effects of these pressures and overall consequences of the changes are difficult to predict due to the complexity of mountain habitats. Previous studies have recorded increasing temperatures in mountain systems as one of the consequences of climatic change. As a consequence of this warming trend, plant species that typically grow in lower altitudes may migrate to higher altitudes as those habitats become suitable. There are many different effects this may have on the local eco-system, such as the possibility of the migrating species outcompeting the local species or even hybridization occurring, resulting in a new species. Regardless, the movement of species from low to high elevations will have a direct effect on plant community dynamics in the area. South Africa is experiencing warming temperatures and has experienced a reported increase in mean annual temperature by 0.96 ºC over the last five decades. This research aims to understand the implications of inter-annual temperature and precipitation trends in the alpine, upper and lower montane thermal zones in the Drakensberg on two endemic plant genera, Rhodohypoxis (Hypoxidaceae) and Glumicalyx (Scrophulariaceae). A thermal zone refers to a temperature gradient at a specific altitude in a mountain system. Temperature and precipitation data from 1994 to 2014 were collected from four weather stations: Sani Pass (2874 m), Shaleburn (1614 m) and Giants Castle (1759 m) in South Africa, and Mokhotlong (2209 m) in Lesotho. These sites represent three thermal zones; Sani Pass is in the alpine zone, Mokhotlong is in the upper montane zone, and Shaleburn and Giants Castle are in the lower montane zone. The objectives of this research are to analyse and compare the temperature and precipitation trends, inter-annual variability, and annual number of frost days at each data collection site from 1994 to 2014, as well as infer the potential impact these changes may have on the local endemic plant genera. Results show a more pronounced increase in temperature in the lower thermal zones and a larger decrease in precipitation in higher thermal zones. The lower montane zone experienced the highest increase in temperature of up to 0.6 ºC over two decades. The alpine zone showed the largest decrease in precipitation of on average 27.5 mm of rainfall per annum over 20 years, while the lower montane zone displayed the largest inter-annual variability in both temperature and precipitation variables. The upper montane zone had a larger decrease in frost days over the 20 year period relative to the lower montane zone. Interestingly this work showed an increased warming pattern in the lower thermal zones relative to upper zones, which contrasts with work in other mountain ecosystems. This warming may create larger intermediate regions which could encourage the movement of endemic flora into neighbouring thermal zones. Movement between thermal zones may increase hybridization within plant genera which could change the structure of the plant communities and possibly result in altered floral populations. Keywords: Climatic change, Drakensberg, endemic flora, thermal zones, temperature and precipitation trends, inter-annual variability
LG2018
14
Meiklejohn, Keith Ian. "Aspects of the weathering of the Clarens formation in the KwaZulu/Natal Drakensberg : implications for the preservation of indigenous rock art." Thesis, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/11284.
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Arnott, Wendy Lynn. "The effect of burning frequency on invertebrate and indigenous flowering forb diversity in a Drakensberg grassland ecosystem." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/8029.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg, South Africa, is predominantly a grassland ecosystem maintained by fire. The effect of the current burning regime on invertebrate and flowering forb diversity in this ecosystem is poorly understood. The overall aim ofthis study was to contribute towards the development of an effective burning regime for the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg that will conserve invertebrates and indigenous forbs, two major components of biodiversity. The objectives were to examine the effect of fire and fire frequency on flowering forb and invertebrate species diversity, to determine whether fire frequency, time since last burn or locality were influencing species composition, and to identify potential biodiversity indicators that reflect overall species richness for use in monitoring of invertebrates and forbs. Sampling took place in March, September and November of 2002 at Giants Castle Game Reserve. Invertebrates were sampled using sweep netting and targeted netting along transects, yellow pan traps and soil quadrats. Invertebrate taxa sampled were ants (Formicidae), butterflies (Lepidoptera), grasshoppers (Orthoptera), leafboppers (Cicadellidae), bees (Apoidea), bee flies (Bombyliidae), hover flies (Syrphidae), robber flies (Asilidae), spiders (Araneae), earthworms (Oligochaeta) and millipedes (Diploda). These were identified to species level with the assistance of taxon experts. Flowering forbs were sampled using five replicates of five by five metre quadrats randomly placed in each site. Overall flowering forb and invertebrate species diversity was higher in grasslands that were burnt for two consecutive years in 2001 and 2002 than in grasslands that were not burnt during those two years. Frequently (annual) and intermediately (biennial) burnt grasslands had significantly higher invertebrate and flowering forb diversity than infrequently (five years without burning) burnt grasslands. This, together with the fact that grasslands burnt during the year of sampling had higher species richness than grasslands burnt two and five years previously suggests that invertebrates and forbs are generally resilient to fire and many forb species appear to be stimulated by fire. However, each burn frequency had its own suite of unique flowering forb and invertebrate species. Invertebrate communities were influenced mostly by locality and the length of time past since the last fire and flowering forb communities were influenced mostly by the length oftime past since the last fire. Fire frequency had the least influence on both invertebrate and forb communities. Ecological succession occurred after each fire in the invertebrate communities but forb communities appear to need more than five years without fire for ecological succession to occur. The findings of this study therefore suggest that using a combination of three fire frequencies would result in patches of grassland in various stages of ecological succession, and would conserve species unique to each burning frequency, and would therefore conserve maximum diversity. Flowering forb species richness and certain invertebrate taxa (ants, leafboppers, spiders and bees) have the potential to act as indicators of overall invertebrate species richness for use in monitoring programmes.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.
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Blewett, Maryke. "Drivers of land use change in the Drakensberg Mountains South Africa." Diss., 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/57296.
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Change in land use has had major impacts on natural resources. Mountain terrains and their associated natural resources are especially vulnerable to extensive changes in land use. We evaluated climate, demographic and socio-economic changes for two study areas in the Drakensberg Mountains, as possible drivers of land use change in each study area. The most notable change in land use within the study areas was the increase in urban areas despite the fact that the study areas are located within areas dominated with primary economic activities. Trends in climate change were not consistent between the various weather stations with the majority of the weather stations experiencing no significant changes in temperature and rainfall. Although there was a relatively slow positive population growth in the two study areas, it was not a main driver of the changes in land use. We found that socio-economic factors, including increased formal employment, income and migration to urban centres were much more important in driving land use change in these rural environments.Dissertation (MSc)--University of Pretoria, 2016.
tm2016
Zoology and Entomology
MSc
Unrestricted
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"Bird community ecology and composition in afrotemperate forests of the Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa." Thesis, 2009. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3362.
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Recent research has emphasized the importance of understanding the consequences of species loss, not just for biodiversity per se, but also for ecosystem resilience and functioning. Firstly, a baseline analysis of the effects of a naturally patchy landscape on avian community composition and resilience in a high altitude Afrotemperate forest landscape in South Africa is presented. Bird data from a point count survey of 706 counts at 31 forest sites was used to test whether taxonomic species diversity, functional species richness and density of birds provide insight into community resilience in this historically patchy ecosystem. Bird species richness of forest patches ranged from 17 to 38, with a total species richness of 50. Density was slightly but negatively related to both area and species richness. That density compensation is occurring in these Afrotemperate forests suggests a level of resilience in this system. Following on from this, cumulative species-area and function-area graphs were derived to quantify the loss of forest area or taxonomic bird species richness that this landscape may potentially sustain before ecosystem functioning is negatively affected. The concept that species’ patterns of distribution, abundance and coexistence are the result of local ecological processes has recently been challenged by evidence that regionalscale processes are equally instrumental in shaping local community composition. The historically and naturally fragmented Afrotemperate forests of the uKhahlamba– Drakensberg Park, South Africa, offer an interesting test case. In this study the relative effects of local and regional-scale processes on species assemblages in a naturally patchy forest system were investigated. By employing species-area and species-isolation relationships, and nested subset analyses, we showed that isolation (regional-scale process) had a greater effect on bird species richness and composition than area (local-scale process), though the species-area relationship was significant. Using generalized linear models and an information-theoretic approach to model selection, patch area, the size of the regional species pool as well as the distance to the nearest Eastern Mistbelt forest were all influential in determining local bird species richness in these montane forests. Thus, localities are regionally enriched within the constraints on species occupancy provided by the available habitat.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2009.
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Lodder, Jared. "The late quaternary palaeoenvironments of a subalpine wetland in Cathedral Peak, KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg." Thesis, 2011. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/7925.
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In contrast to the wealth of palaeoenvironmental research stemming from the eastern
Afromontane archipelago, the southern Afromontane component, which comprises largely of
the Drakensberg, remains understudied. The Drakensberg constitute an area of significant
biodiversity, cultural and economic importance. Suitable sites for palaeoenvironmental research
are rare in South Africa due to general arid climatic conditions over much of the country. The
KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg offers a unique opportunity for palaeoenvironmental research
through its increased rainfall and higher altitudes, which enable the development of wetlands
that have the potential for polliniferous accumulation to occur. Catchment Six in Cathedral Peak
is one such wetland that has provided an opportunity to research palaeoenvironmental
conditions of the southern Afromontane archipelago component. A 371 cm sediment core was
extracted from a subalpine wetland in Catchment Six and analysed using multiple proxies
including; pollen, charcoal and geochemistry (carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes). A
chronological framework for the core was established based on accelerated mass spectrometry
radiocarbon dating of eight bulk sediment samples. A basal date of 15,100 ± 445 cal yr BP was
determined at a depth of 298 cm. Poor pollen preservation of the basal portion of the core
limited palaeoenvironmental inference for the late Pleistocene section of the record. The multiproxy
record provides high chronological resolution for the early to late Holocene. Multi-proxy
data indicate that the Holocene period in the Drakensberg was characterised by variable climatic
conditions. Charcoal data indicate periods of increased regional fires in the last ca. 400 cal yr
BP. Palaeoenvironmental inferences from the Catchment Six record are broadly in agreement
with regional climatic indications based on existing literature.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2011.
19
Grab, Stefan Walter. "An evaluation of the periglacial morphology in the high Drakensberg and associated environmental implications." Thesis, 1997. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/6004.
Full textAbstract:
Although periglacial research in the high Drakensberg and Lesotho mountains has received growing interest amongst southern African geomorphologists, little detailed, quantitative information was available prior to this study. In an attempt to help overcome this deficit, a quantitative assessment on cryogenic landforms and processes operative in the high Drakensberg was undertaken. Morphological and sedimentological assessments of sorted patterned ground, non-sorted steps, thufur, blockstreams, stone-banked lobes, debris deposits and turf exfoliation landforms were undertaken. In addition, geomorphic process assessments in the field included the measurement of turf retreat at turf exfoliation sites, the determination of frost-heave mechanisms within wetlands and sediment mobilization along the Mashai Stream. Ground temperatures were recorded for thufur from 1993 to 1996. The environmental implications of some of the findings are discussed. Seasonal frost-induced sorted patterned ground emerges annually within a few weeks, demonstrating the effect of regular, diurnal freeze-thaw cycles during the winter months. It is found that the present climate is not conducive to maintaining or preserving miniature periglacial landforms below 3200m a.s.l. during the summer months. Large relict sorted
circles, stone-banked lobes and blockstreams are the most conspicuous periglacial landforms in the high Drakensberg and are products of at least seasonally-frozen ground. It is suggested that debris deposits found within high Drakensberg cutbacks are possible indicators for marginal niche and cirque glaciation during the Late Pleistocene. It is demonstrated that in
climatically marginal periglacial regions, the microtopographically controlled freezing processes may be of paramount importance in maintaining and modifying the cryogenic landforms that occur. Pronounced temperature differentials are found during the winter months, when thufur are frozen for several weeks and depressions remain predominantly unfrozen. It is suggested that such contemporary temperature differentials induce
thermodynamic forces and ultimately ground heave at sites in the high Drakensberg. The pronounced seasonal weather patterns in the high Drakensberg have promoted a cycle of geomorphic process events that operate synergistically and initiate particular erosion landforms. However, cryogenic activity during the colder period is overwhelmed by water
induced erosion processes during the summer months in the high Drakensberg. It is concluded that the high Drakensberg is currently a marginal periglacial region, but that periglacial conditions prevailed during both the Pleistocene and some Late Holocene Neoglacial events.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1997.
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Uys, Charmaine Janet. "Invertebrate diversity in afrotemperate forests : spatial and seasonal changes and implications for conservation." Thesis, 2006. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/3165.
Full textAbstract:
Forests in the Drakensberg Mountains, although generally small and fragmented, represent a wealth of globally significant biodiversity. This is especially true of the invertebrate fauna, which includes a range of localized endemic species. Ground dwelling, flightless invertebrates living in forests show relative immobility and poor dispersal abilities compared to birds, butterflies and other animal taxa. The naturally fragmented state of Afrotemperate forests also geographically isolates these taxa. No quantified, systematic surveys of flightless invertebrates have been conducted in Afrotemperate forests in the Drakensberg Mountains. This means that, to date, invertebrates have not been considered in the management of these habitats. However, invertebrates are vitally important in ecosystem functioning and maintenance and must be included in management plans. This study quantified flightless invertebrate diversity in Afrotemperate forest patches in the Drakensberg by investigating spatial patterns and seasonal changes in invertebrate diversity. The broad objectives were to: 1) Determine the appropriate spatial scale at which conservation of flightless invertebrates should be implemented; 2) Determine which season, taxa and sampling methods are most suitable for biodiversity assessment and monitoring in Afrotemperate forest; and 3) Investigate methods of prioritizing Afrotemperate forests for conservation of flightless invertebrate diversity. Seventeen forest patches in six valleys in four Drakensberg reserves (Rugged Glen Nature Reserve, Royal Natal National Park, Cathedral Peak and Injisuthi) were sampled in the summer of 2004/2005. In addition, three forests at Injisuthi were sampled in March, June, September and December 2004 to enable seasonal comparisons. Sampling methods included soil samples, leaf litter samples, pitfall traps, active search quadrats and tree beats. The study focused on terrestrial molluscs (Class Gastropoda), earthworms (Class Annelida), onychophorans (Class Onychophora), centipedes (Class Chilopoda), millipedes (Class Diplopoda) and ants (Class Insecta). Target taxa were sorted to morphospecies and then identified to species by taxonomic experts. Seventy-two species and a total of 5261 individual specimens from the six target taxa were collected. Species composition of sites varied along the north-south gradient, and species turnover (beta diversity) was related to the distance between sites. Flightless invertebrate species richness and community structure fluctuated seasonally. Therefore, I recommend that sampling should take place during the wet season (summer months). Molluscs were the most suitable taxon among those surveyed to represent flightless invertebrate diversity and leaf litter samples and active search quadrats are the most suitable sampling methods for flightless invertebrates in forest. This study compared approaches to prioritizing Afrotemperate forests in terms of their invertebrate diversity using ranked species richness with complementarity indices of species presence/absence, taxonomic distinctness (orders, families and genera) and endemicity. There was no consistent spatial trend in the priority ranking of forests based on species richness. Complementarity based on species richness only required eight out of 17 forests to represent all 62 species. Although complementarity based on taxonomic distinctness and endemicity required fewer sites, not all species were represented. The minimum set of sites identified using complementarity based on species richness and augmented with information on taxa of conservation importance (local endemic and threatened species) was the most rigorous approach to prioritizing Afrotemperate forest patches in the Drakensberg for flightless invertebrate conservation. Urgent conservation interventions are required because invertebrates play a critical role in ecosystem functioning. As many forest patches and invertebrate populations as possible should be protected to conserve the full complement of invertebrate species of the region. Special management attention should be paid to the eight forests identified as priority sites in the complementarity analyses. Forest patches cannot survive in isolation, so it is important to manage the grassland, riverine vegetation, forest ecotone and forests holistically. Provisional targets were set for the conservation of flightless invertebrates, based on estimates of the requirements for persistence of invertebrates in Afrotemperate forest, made within the constraints of available information and expert opinion.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2006.
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Cingo, Pumeza. "Plant diversity and morphology in seasonally snow-abundant niches of the Drakensberg Alpine Centre, Lesotho." Thesis, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10539/19332.
Full textAbstract:
A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Science, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in fulfilment of requirements for the degree of Master of Science. Johannesburg, 2015.Mountains are one of the most important and yet environmentally sensitive habitats in the world, they act as reservoirs of species, and have frequently served as refugia for organisms during periods of climate change and provided subsequent sources for speciation. As temperatures increase due to global climate change, species are shifting to higher altitudes to escape the effects of warming at lower altitudes. The spatial distribution and diversity of alpine vegetation is strongly influenced by environmental factors such as snow cover, solar radiation, soil moisture, humidity, and air/ground temperature. Snow cover is one of the most important factors controlling ground level microclimate and alpine plant growth. My study was undertaken near Kotisephola Pass at ca. 3300 m.a.s.l. in eastern Lesotho. Three zones were identified namely, upper, middle and lower zones at the site, as a result of vegetation differences that were observed along a 30 m transect from the rock scarp to the tussock grasses. The environmental variables of temperature, soil moisture, solar radiation, snow depth and humidity were measured over a period of 17 months using i-Buttons, Hobo and Tinytag data loggers, probes, solar radiation and temperature data loggers. Vegetation sampling was undertaken to determine aerial cover, and species composition, richness and diversity during the summer growing season of January and February 2013. The study site portrays strong fine-scale botanical micro-zonation owing to ground level microclimatic differentiation as a consequence of topographic (i.e rock scarp) shading and snow capture. Temperatures were >5 °C warmer in the upper zone from July – September 2012 due to the deep (1 m) snow cover which lasted for two months longer than in the middle zone, and only lasted for 36 hours in the lower zone. Accordingly, the upper zone had the lowest solar radiation throughout the data collection period due to the continuous snow cover and shading from the rock scarp. Three botanical zones were identified as characterised by different Helichrysum species. The upper zone (21 species) was more species rich than the the middle (19) and lower (18) zones. The vegetation is dominated by grasses which cover >35% of the study site, whilst herbs and shrubs cover only ca. 6% with an average of 12.3% bare ground. The strong zonation in plant species composition is a response to the fine spatial-scale changes in the environment, resulting from snow cover acting in ameliorating the harsh iii alpine conditions in winter. More detailed research on a larger scale is still required to fully comprehend phenology and morphology of the plants at the study region.
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Peden, Moraig Isobel. "The impact of communal land-use on the biodiversity of a conserved grassland at Cathedral Peak, uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, South Africa : implications for sustainable utilization of montane grasslands." Thesis, 2004. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5448.
Full textAbstract:
South African grasslands are under-conserved and there is a need to expand conservation
efforts beyond the boundaries of protected areas. While communal grasslands have
conservation potential they are generally over-utilized and the impact of communal land-use
on biodiversity is poorly studied. At the same time there is pressure on protected areas to
allow for the sustainable utilization of biodiversity. The aim of this study was to examine the
impact of communal land-use on various components of biodiversity and to make
recommendations regarding communal use of protected areas.
A fence-line study was conducted to assess the impact of eight years of controlled communal
land-use on biodiversity in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park. The communally used land
(referred to as the lease land) which was used for controlled grazing as well as plant collection
was compared with land under formal conservation. Vegetation was sampled using the
importance score method and veld condition assessments. Selected invertebrate taxa were
sampled using sweep netting, colour pan traps and transects and were identified to
morphospecies level.
Multivariate statistics revealed that sites generally grouped according to landscape position
rather than land-use. No significant differences were found in diversity, evenness, richness or
veld condition between the lease and conservation land. However, more than twenty-five
percent of vegetation and invertebrate species were found exclusively in the lease or
conservation land, suggesting that different suites of species were supported by the two landuses.
Four alien plant species were found exclusively in the lease land, while one vulnerable
and one rare plant species were found only in the conservation land.
Further research is required to assess whether biodiversity was diminished by controlled
communal. While the lease concept may offer potential as a low-use buffer zone, localised
damage from cattle paths and weak enforcement of grazing agreements were areas of concern.
Keywords: communal grass)ands, grassland flora, grassland invertebrates, transfrontier park.Thesis (M.Env.Dev.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 2004.
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Everson, Theresa Mary. "Seedling establishment of Themeda triandra Forssk. in the montane grasslands of Natal." Thesis, 1994. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/10493.
Full textAbstract:
Soil erosion and vegetation destruction have reached serious proportions in disturbed
areas of the montane grasslands of the Natal Drakensberg. Little is known of the
inherent ability of indigenous grasses to produce viable seed and establish seedlings for
rehabilitation programmes. This study examined the effects of fire and small-scale
disturbance on the seedling dynamics of the dominant grass, Themeda triandra Forssk.
Annual seed production of T. triandra increased with length of burning rotation, ranging
from 21 seeds m⁻² in the annual winter burn to 485 seeds m⁻² in the five-year burn. High
predation of seeds (70-98%) and low viability (37% in 15 month-old seeds) contributed
to the poor representation of T. triandra in the seed bank when compared to the aboveground
vegetation.
Seedling densities and survival were monitored by mapping quadrats at six-weekly
intervals from November 1986 to September 1989. Highest establishment of T. triandra
was recorded in the biennial spring burn treatment (< 184 seedlings m⁻²). Microclimatic
studies of the seedling environment demonstrated that increases in photosynthetically
active radiation following burning, and high soil moisture associated with accumulation
of litter, favour seedling establishment.
The main constraint to seedling establishment was high mortality in winter which
resulted in a 1% survival of seedlings of T. triandra during the three-year study. This
indicates that in the fire-climax grasslands of the study, seedlings contribute little to the
population structure. The most significant factor contributing to low survivorship is
intraspecific competition between seedlings. Spacing of seedlings in rehabilitation
programmes is therefore a critical factor in optimizing seedling establishment. Analysis of the fate of seeds of T. triandra between their production and establishment,
showed that the main constraints for seedling establishment were predation, low viability
and poor germination. A population model, based on transitions between seeds,
seedlings and mature tufts, predicts that a biennial spring burn is the optimal treatment
for maximising both seedling establishment and vegetative growth.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1994.
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Marchant, Craig Galen. "[Trophic Cascade]: an ecological research, education and information community centre in the Amazizi Tribal Authority of the Drakenburg." Thesis, 2016. http://hdl.handle.net/10539/22091.
Full textAbstract:
This document is submitted in partial fulfilment for the degree: Masters of Architecture [Professional] at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2015The focus of architecture in South Africa is often centered on intense urban areas in the country. However, important though these areas are, they represent only one facet of the greater country. The rural areas around South Africa are repeatedly overlooked. Added to that, our rich heritage and increasingly unique and threatened relationship with the natural systems around us is often sidelined. Our relationship with the natural world is a complicated one. Humans, perhaps the only species on earth able to do so, have the opportunity to decide whether to live symbiotically with nature or parasitically. Unfortunately the choice is often the latter. One of the areas where our rather strained and openended relationship with the natural world is most apparent is in the impoverished rural Bonjaneni Community of the Amazizi Tribal Authority located in the Okhahlamba District of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Mankind’s negative impacts on this regions natural mechanisms are being felt locally and nationally in three particular areas that form the key points of focus for the thesis: grasslands, water systems and the decline of the Cape Vulture population. Grassland is of utmost importance ecologically, economically and socially for the region, without healthy grassland community livestock cannot survive, thatch cannot be gathered and the landscape will become prone to severe erosion during the rainy season. Erosion negatively affects the Tugela River water catchment basin too. Without healthy vegetation cover the landscape and community will become prone to flooding. Silt from the erosion will impact numerous dams further downstream that supply water to KwaZulu-Natal and the economic heartland of South Africa, Gauteng. The repercussions of a threatened population of Cape Vultures are also of concern. Without the specialised scavenger animal corpses will be left to fester in the sun, developing carrion borne diseases that can negatively affect the health of pets, people and livestock. These problems result in a considerable financial burden to the community and the government, yet these are all problems that can be addressed through responsible stewardship of the land and an awareness of our position in the natural world.
EM2017
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Francis, Michael. "Explorations in ethnicity and social change among Zulu-speaking San descendents of the Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal." Thesis, 2007. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/2202.
Full textAbstract:
This thesis is an ethnographic exploration of the people of the Drakensberg Mountains of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa that trace Zulu and San or Bushmen ancestry. I found that as these people attempt to reclaim rights lost through colonization, assimilation and Apartheid they are creating new rituals and attaching new significance to rock art sites. I also found that the contemporary ethnography of the Drakensberg peoples in general can aid interpretations of the rock art and also challenges established hegemonies of interpretation. The research also challenges the ethnic/cultural distinctions that are assumed to be salient between different peoples of South Africa and adds to the 'Kalahari debate' by questioning notions of an either or situation of assimilation or subordination. The ethno-historical record indicates a much more complex web of relations existed historically than is related in the dominant academic discourses. The extent that these people will be recognised as aboriginal remains to be seen, and currently they are creating social and political links with San organizations with the hopes of future gains and political recognition of their rights and identity.Thesis (Ph.D.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, 2007.
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Sinclair, Richard Roy. "An analysis of terracettes in a region of Giant's Castle Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg, South Africa." Thesis, 1998. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/4353.
Full textAbstract:
Terracettes are a widely occurring form of micro-relief found throughout regions
displaying various climatic and environmental conditions. Much speculation
surrounds the processes responsible for their formation and development.
An investigation of these micro-forms, their associated soil physical properties,
sustaining mechanisms, and their relationship to slope stability was undertaken in Giant's Castle Game Reserve, KwaZulu - Natal Drakensberg, South Africa. The study showed that relationships between terracette morphology and soil physical properties within the Reserve are few, and that current soil conditions cannot be used to infer process related to terracette formation. However dry bulk density data indicated that soil creep is the dominant formative mechanism within the Reserve. Throughflow at riser surfaces was the dominant sustaining mechanism, with needle ice growth, wind, surfacewash and animal disturbance contributing minor retreat at
both treads and risers. Aspect played an important role in determining soil physical characteristics. It was inferred that terracettes imparted stability to the slopes on which they are found, and with continued retreat at both treads and risers the slope was again placed under conditions of instability.Thesis (M.Sc.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1998.
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Berruti, Sharron Marion. "Vegetation ecology of Drakensberg foothill moist grassland on Hlogoma Mountain, Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal." Diss., 2017. http://hdl.handle.net/10500/23833.
Full textAbstract:
Hlogoma Mountain is a small inselberg surrounded by farms and commercial forestry in the Underberg district (KwaZulu-Natal) within the Gs10 Drakensberg Foothill Moist Grassland. As little is known about the vegetation on Hlogoma, a survey was undertaken to classify, map and describe the plant communities occurring on the inselberg. A total of 100 (16 m2) randomly stratified sample plots were placed in homogeneous vegetation units within the 117 ha study area. A TWINSPAN classification, refined by Braun-Blanquet procedures, resulted in the identification of two major communities, five communities, 12 sub-communities and four variants. All communities were described and a vegetation map constructed. Ordinations identified key environmental variables that have an impact on the vegetation at the study site. A plant species checklist was created and analysed for floristic composition; rarity and threatened species; medicinal plants; endemism; phenology; flower colour and elevation range; species richness and plant community biodiversity. A total of 467 species were identified, represented by 271 genera and 87 families. Four Red Data species and a new Aspidoglossum species were discovered. Two near-endemic genera, two endemic species and 88 near-endemic species belonging to the Drakensberg Alpine Centre were found on Hlogoma. This study showed that Hlogoma Mountain is an inselberg with high plant species richness and endemism, and is a refuge of conservation importance for biodiversity.Environmental Sciences
M. Sc.(Environmental Science)
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Donnelly, Michael. "A role for protected areas in community income-generation : a study of the northern Drakensberg." Thesis, 1998. http://hdl.handle.net/10413/5549.
Full textAbstract:
Sub-Saharan Africa is becoming increasingly impoverished with ever-increasing gaps between
rich and poor, particularly in deep rural areas where access to even the basic infrastructure
needed for development is insufficient. Ironically such areas are often encountered on the edges
of protected areas where conservation exists in its purest forms, the preservation of wildlife.
Wildlife conservation, as a preservationist ideal, is in conflict with the rural poor who share its
borders. Often the diminishing natural resource base, upon which the rural inhabitants depend
for subsistence, is disappearing either through depletion or inside fences in the name of
conservation.
Having been placed on the development continuum, often by Western ideals, rural dwellers are
now dependent on income-generation for their survival. This case study examines the
opportunities for rural communities to become involved in meaningful income-generation and
how local conservation bodies, managers of protected areas, might encourage and facilitate this.
Often the challenge for conservation bodies is to accommodate the development needs of
neighbours of protected areas within their own goals of preserving wildlife. The cultural basis of
conservation is in transition, given the realisations of the depth of poverty and the new social
questioning of the moral right to spend so much on what many now consider to be archaic
notions of nature.
The desire to integrate conservation with development is by itself insufficient to make a
sustainable difference to local communities. Rather, holistic development models are needed
to allow conservation to play an effective role in income-generation, from creating the
background for successful businesses to helping create markets for produce. Analyses of current
conservation techniques to involve communities in conservation suggest the need for a shifting
of the conservative, preservationist culture that dominates conservation bodies, towards a more
people-centred approach. With this comes a realisation that the goals of development cannot
be achieved through conservation but ironically the goals of conservation can be achieved
through development of neighbouring communities.Thesis (M.Env.Dev.)-University of Natal, Pietermaritzburg, 1998.
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Lenkwe, Aobakwe. "Impact of storm events on the transport of solutes and macronutrients in mountainous catchments under contrasting land uses at the Cathedral Peak research site, Drakensberg." Thesis, 2017. https://hdl.handle.net/10539/24982.
Full textAbstract:
A dissertation submitted to the Faculty of Science, University of the Witwatersrand, in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science
August 2017.Streamwater chemistry is influenced by several factors that include: geology, soil-geology interactions, land use, climate change, topography, vegetation, mechanical and chemical weathering. The dominance of these factors when determining the chemistry of streamwater varies from one situation to the other. Four different catchments in the Drakensberg were monitored to identify the processes determining temporal and seasonal patterns in streamwater chemistry. The land uses of the catchment include: CP03 (previously afforested, degraded), CP04 (pristine grasslands), CP06 (pristine grasslands) and CP09 (protection from fire). All the catchments were investigated for differences in major ion concentrations, streamwater temperatures, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), dissolved oxygen, pH, conductivity. There were comparisons made between historical and recent data collected at the Cathedral Peak Research Site. Comparisons were made between CP03 and CP06 to identify effects of storm events on streamwater chemistry. CP03 and CP09 had significant statistical differences in terms of major ions. Land use and stormflow path ways were most influential in determining the streamwater chemistry across catchments.
LG2018
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Masemola, Diphetlho M. "Comparative study of the exterior and interior climates of a building fitted with a conservatory : a Drakensberg mountain retreat case study." 2014. http://encore.tut.ac.za/iii/cpro/DigitalItemViewPage.external?sp=1000961.
Full textAbstract:
M. Tech. Architectural TechnologyThe aim of this study was to investigate the climate influence of a conservatory added to an existing building. The interior temperature and relative humidity levels were measured, analysed and compared with that of the exterior, to determine in which seasonal cycle the conservatory was more effective as an interior climate enhancement system. The building on which the case study was based is a farmhouse, retrofitted with a conservatory, situated in KwaZulu-Natal, near Bergville in the Drakensberg region. The owner added a conservatory to the existing building, in an attempt to achieve a more temperate indoor climate by harnessing natural energies. The South African climate is typified by varying high diurnal temperatures, with some climatic zones experiencing high summer and/or low winter temperatures. The conservatory was therefore used as a design measure to create a passive solar environment within an enclosed intermediate area.
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Kruger, Linda Eloise. "Regeneration of grassland after removal of pine plantations in the north eastern mountain grasslands of the Drakensberg escarpment, Mpumalanga, South Africa." Diss., 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/2263/29600.
Full textAbstract:
Concern for the severe loss of biodiversity of grassland species is often voiced. Plantation forestry is known to cause extensive and long lasting disturbance of the natural environment in particular in areas such as the mountain grassland of the Drakensberg escarpment. The survey was conducted in the Graskop area on sites within pine plantations along the Treur River bordering the Blyde River Nature Reserve. The results showed that restoration of plant species biodiversity through natural succession, on cleared plantation sites, required periods longer than seven years and that the regeneration of a great many of the indigenous forb species remained uncertain. Two survey areas were selected and within each survey area, sampling sites were selected to represent three categories of vegetation namely, undisturbed grassland and sites where pine trees had been removed three and seven years previously. Samples of plants were collected from each of these sampling sites. Analysis by means of a classification technique determined the species composition of the disturbed sites in relation to that of the intact grassland. Wheel point surveys were also carried out on these sites to provided information on the vegetation cover, as well as the degree of species regeneration on each site. The variation in vegetation composition of the various plots was ana lysed by means of Detrended Correspondence Analysis (DCA) and Two-Way Indicator Species Analysis (TWINSPAN). The results showed three distinct species assemblages which corresponded with the three categories of sampling sites. Also that the indigenous forbs species comprised 68% of all the sampled species most of which had failed to regenerate in either the three or seven year cleared plots. The most successful grass species in establishing and persisting in all sites were, Eragrostis curvula and Loudetia simplex. The fern, Pteridium aquilinum had a high prevalence on the disturbed grassland plots and the threat of its invasion of these habitats is compounded by the physical disturbance which eradication methods cause. Planning for grassland restoration involves cognizance of the complexity of grassland ecology, the influence of a multiplicity of environmental factors and the proximity of donor sites to the disturbed areas. Applying international restoration techniques used in grasslands of different origins to those of South African landscapes could result in disappointing and costly efforts. At best any attempt at managing grassland diversity should be preceded by an holistic investigation into the environmental conditions particular to the specific terrain and thereafter maintaining a conservative approach of allowing natural succession. The threat of invasive exotic species should be integral to conserving the integrity of the remaining intact natural grasslands in South Africa. It is acknowledged that in this study regeneration of grassland species on plantation sites cleared of pine trees three and seven years previously does not include a long time span such as needed for succession to take place but is useful in showing a trend in species re-colonization to resemble the vegetation of intact grassland, as well as highlighting the absence of a great number of indigenous forb species. CopyrightDissertation (MInstAgrar)--University of Pretoria, 2012.
Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology
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