Classification and dynamics of the forest vegetation of Hluhluwe Nature Reserve, Kwa Zulu-Natal

West, Adam

Classification and dynamics of the forest vegetation of Hluhluwe Nature Reserve, Kwa Zulu-Natal

Master Thesis

1996

Abstract

The forests of Hluhluwe Nature Reserve, Kwa Zulu-Natal, were examined to determine composition, grain, classification, dynamics and conservation value. Field sampling took the form of recording DBH for all species in twenty-one 0.04 ha circular plots, walking 5-metre wide transects in mature and marginal forest to record size-classes and analysis of twenty gaps. Data were analysed by the multivariate programs, TWINSPAN and CANOCO. The composition of the canopy and subcanopy is distinct. Four canopy and two subcanopy communities can be detected. Community succession in the mature forest takes the form of almost random replacement of canopy trees through two subcanopy communities. Size-class distributions indicate a prevalence of shade-intolerant species. This forest is deemed to be coarse-grained and can be classified as coastal scarp forest. Comparisons with other forests shows Hluhluwe to have slightly above average species richness. A removal of anthropogenic disturbance by the creation of the reserve may have resulted in present forest canopy structure. Management for conservation of species diversity should encourage disturbance. There is potential for harvesting of certain shadetolerant species by local communities. This forest is a pristine fragment of a rapidly diminishing vegetation type and efforts should be made to conserve its entire expanse, within Hluhluwe Nature Reserve, in order to prevent species loss.