Progress with vegetation studies in South Africa

Abstract

Vegetation studies at various levels of detail and using various methods are briefly reviewed. The approach and procedures of the Zurich-Montpellier school of phytosociology as a standard methodology for regional studies has become increasingly recognized. Progress has been made in regional studies in the fynbos and woodland biomes. but grassland, forest and karoo vegetation have been much neglected. There have also been marked increases in activity over a wide range of additional vegetation studies including new fields of research, particularly ecosystem studies. However, there are still vast gaps in our knowledge of the basic vegetationa! resources of the country. A systematic regional-study programme is being launched to remedy these deficiencies in fundamental knowledge.

Vegetation Mapping in Africa: A Critique

“…This remains probably the most detailed national vegetation map of any country in Africa. The Botanical Research Institute in South Africa has had a long-standing interest in vegetation mapping at reconnaissance and larger scales (Scheepers, 1983). For example, Edwards (1967) 1983), in combination with the structural classificat ion system proposed by Edwards (1 983), offer scope for further improvement in the field of vegetation mapping.…”