Distribution of Grazing Ungulates in Relation to Water Holes, its Consequence on Soil and Vegetation in the Serengeti Plains, Tanzania
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Date
2005-06
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The distribution and abundance of grazers in relation to the water holes in the
Serengeti plains were studied. Ten species of grazing ungulates were recorded in the
area. Using direct and indirect count methods, high abundance of animals was found
in zone 1 (areas around water holes). During the dry season, high abundance of
ThomsonĀ“s gazelle was recorded in burnt areas away from the water hole. In
unburnt area, they were abundant closer to the water holes. Total grass cover
(percentage), species diversity and grass height were significantly lower in areas
around the water holes compared to areas away from the water holes. Grazing was
more intense in areas around water holes compared to areas farther. Among soil
texture types, only clay fraction shows significant difference among the three zones
compared. The percentage of clay in areas near the water hole was high compared
to areas away. Soil organic matter, total nitrogen and potassium were significantly
lower in areas closer to the water holes, whereas, ammonium, electrical conductivity
and pH were significantly higher in areas close to the water holes and decrease with
increased distances from the water holes. Most of the smaller grazing ungulates
were abundant in burnt areas and in areas with short grasses. The study concluded
that the distance from the water hole, fire and rainfall influenced the distribution and
abundance of grazing ungulates. Further study should be conducted which can
include the long rainy season so as to find out seasonal effects.
Key words: Abundance, burnt areas, distribution of grazing ungulates, Serengeti
plains, water holes.
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Keywords
Abundance, burnt areas, distribution of grazing ungulates, Serengeti plains, water holes