A synecological study of the vegetation of the north-eastern Orange Free State

Abstract

The deteriorating state of the Grassland Biome is a major concern which prompted the launch of the Grassland Biome Project. The objective of this project is to develop a better knowledge and understanding of the grassland structure and functioning to permit efficient land use planning and conservation. The identification of areas with conservation status forms part of this study. A total of 374 sample plots were randomly distributed over an area of 5 600 km2, comprising the north-eastern corner of the Orange Free State. Stratification was based on land types and terrain units. The vegetation was classified by means of TWINSPAN and BraunBlanquet procedures. The 41 plant communities identified, were further described and ecologically interpreted. The application of Braun-Blanquet data in the assessment of veld condition and grazing capacity was also tested. The Ecological Index Method was used and showed promising results. Further application of this technique in the grasslands of South Africa should be considered.