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Grass cover distribution in the central Namib-- a rapid method to assess regional and local rainfall patterns of arid regions?
Author
Gunster, Antje
Publisher
Journal of Arid Environments
Publication Year
1995
Body

Grass cover distribution in the northern section of the Namib-Naukluft Park inNamibia was estimated following the rain seasons of 1989, 1990 and 1991. High cover of grass occurred particularly in the vicinity of rocky outcrops and in drainage lines. Grass distribution is related to the gradient of increasing rainfall from West to East, the soil moisture pattern influenced by runoff and the distribution of seeds in and above the soil surface. The spatial distribution of grass patches showed a certain predictability, thus providing baseline data for range management.

Language
English
Resource Type
Text
Document Type
Journal Issue/Article
Journal Volume
29
Journal Number
1
Journal Pages
107-114
Collection
Southern Africa Collection
Journal Name
Journal of Arid Environments
Keywords
herbivore distribution
Namib Desert
patch dynamics
primary production
rangeland management
Topographic Features
grasslands
national parks
rainfall
ecology
management
Africa