The occurrence of a species in a specific environment within its distribution range is regulated by anatomical, physiological, and behavioural adaptations. Survival is dependent on the availability of resources (food, water, cover, sleeping sites, etc.) and a suitable climate. It is also influenced by factors such as intraspecific competition, predation, positive interactions with other species and anthropogenic impacts. Knowledge of all these factors is required to understand variations in diversity and to mitigate the impacts of man. This information also provides data on suitable surrogates to extrapolate known distribution ranges and predict the future impact of climate change. Mountain environments provide an ideal setting to study these factors due to high diversity, high degree of endemism and extreme variability in climate, available resources and animal distribution patterns. Mountains also often serve as a refuge for wildlife.

We propose a study area of 68103 ha that straddles the Soutpansberg mountain in the Vhembe Biosphere Reserve. It is located in the northern part of South Africa at the western extremity of the mountain range and covers all four aspects of the mountain. It also extends into the flat bushveld on three sides. It includes seven different vegetation types with various subdivisions. The proposed study area consists of cattle/goat farms, game farms, hunting farms, leisure farms, tourism operations, communal land and a gazetted nature reserve.
The Lajuma Research Centre, the University of Venda, as well as various other South African and overseas universities have conducted research on various aspects of biodiversity in the proposed site over the past 16 years and an extensive database on environmental features has been compiled resulting in over 50 peer reviewed scientific publications.

At least ten local experts with extensive knowledge of the area have indicated that they are available to participate in the project. This will provide expertise in GIS mapping, plants, invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds. A geneticist, two statisticians and a sociologist have also been recruited. Weather data has been continuously recorded at various altitudes on the south and north sides of the mountain for several years under the auspices of the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON).

The Lajuma Research Centre has accommodation and lecture facilities to house trainers and learners in biodiversity conservation planning.

More info contact Ryan: ryanvanhuyssteen@gmail.com

or visit soutpansbergcbc.blogspot.com or lajuma.com less ↑