Vegetation survey of Sengwa

Abstract

The approach and initial results of a vegetation survey of the Sengwa Wildlife Area are outlined. The objectives were to produce a vegetation classification and map sufficiently detailed to serve as a base for the management of the natural vegetation. The methods adopted consist of (a) stratification of the area into homogeneous units using 1:10 000 colour aerial photographs; (b) plotless random sampling of each stratum by recording cover abundance on the Braun-Blaunquet scale for all woody species; and (c) analysis of the data by indicator species analysis using the computer programme 'Twinspan’.

The classification produced is successful in achieving recognizable vegetation types which tie in well with known environmental features.