African Journal of Range and Forage Science
Journal / African Journal of Range and Forage Science / Vol. 19 (2002) / Articles

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Vol. 19 (2002)
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Articles
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Impact of goat browsing on <i>Aloe ferox</i> in a South African savanna


L Breebaart
Range & Forage Resources, School of Applied Environmental Sciences, University of Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa<br> Present address: National Botanical Institute, Private Bag X7, Claremont 7735, South Africa
R Bhikraj
Range & Forage Resources, School of Applied Environmental Sciences, University of Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
TG O'Connor
Centre for Sustainable Savannas, University of Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa

Abstract

The extent and impact of the utilisation of Aloe ferox by Boer goats during winter in a South African savanna was determined using a plant-based approach. All Aloe plants rooted within the transects were eaten by goats, with small plants utilised more frequently than tall plants. The density of dying and dead Aloe plants was significantly greater than live plants. Mortality of Aloe ferox was a result of extensive browsing by Boer goats. The future survival of Aloe ferox in this savanna system is highly unlikely.


Keywords: browsers; succulents; survival


African Journal of Range & Forage Science 2002, 19(1): 77-78

Journal Identifiers


eISSN: 1727-9380
print ISSN: 1022-0119
 
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