Does variation in plant diversity and abundance influence browsing intensity in black rhinos?
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Date
2023-09
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
WILEY
Abstract
Variations in forage availability, selection and preferences can lead to intense forag-
ing competition and depletion of food consequently lowering diet quality and popula-
tion performance of black rhino species. This study investigated seasonal variations
in rhino diet, foraging, preference and browsing intensity and how this is influenced
by plant diversity and availability in Mkomazi National Park (MKONAPA). Fifty-eight
square grids were randomly selected in each season, and plots were laid for vegetation
assessment during wet and dry seasons in the sanctuary. Browsed species by rhinos
were compared with rhino feeding data from fourteen rhino range areas within Africa.
More than 85% of species edible in MKONAPA were similar to those in rhino range
areas. Acalypha ornata, Grewia similis and Commiphora africana were highly utilised
specie in both seasons. Diversity and abundance of consumed browses decreased to-
wards the dry season while browsing intensity increased with forage preference in
both seasons and was prominent when browse availability was low in dry seasons. Our
study established seasonal variation in dietary composition, browsing intensity and
preferences for black rhinos. We suggest establishing nutritional composition of pre-
ferred forages, assessing density of competitor browsers, translocating excess rhinos
or expanding the sanctuary to meet the recommended ecological carrying capacity.
Sustainable Development Goals
This research article was published by wiley,2023.
Keywords
black rhino forage, browse utilisation,, browsing intensity,, Diceros bicornis, forage availability,, orage preference,, mkomazi rhino sanctuary