Title:

Impact of fire on the Baikiaea woodlands

Publication Year:
2018
Abstract:

Although a single fire does not have an effect on tree layer composition, the accumulation of damage caused by recurring fires in the late dry season can result in early tree mortality and thus a decrease in wood biomass. Geldenhuys (1977) found that mid- to late dry season fires result in a significantly higher stem mortality compared to early burning or no burning. Studies with fire frequency measured over longer periods than 15 years should, however, be performed to learn more about the impact of fire on biomass and tree population dynamics in the Baikiaea woodlands. The effects of fire on tree damage and mortality vary with species, as is also the case for tree regeneration (Geldenhuys, 1977), thereby altering tree composition. A limitation of fire frequency and intensity is needed to protect certain socioeconomically important species such as Dialium englerianum and Guibourtia coleosperma. Preventive management such as the reduction of the fuel load through grazing in the late growing season and early burning can reduce fire intensity and hence tree damage (Gambiza et al., 2008).

Publication Title:

Climate change and adaptive land management in southern Africa - assessments, changes, challenges, and solutions

Place:
Göttingen and Windhoek
Editor:
Revermann R, Krewenka KM, Schmiedel U, Olwoch JM, Helmschrot J, Jürgens N
Publisher:
Klaus Hess Publishers
Series Title:
Biodiversity and Ecology
Series Number:
6
Pages:
334-335
Item Type:
Book or Magazine Section
Language:
en
Files: