The phytosociology of the De Rust section of the Mountain Zebra National Park, Eastern Cape

Abstract

As part of a vegetation survey programme for conservation areas in South Africa, the plant communities of the De Rust section of the Mountain Zebra National Park were investigated. From a TWINSPAN classification, refined by Braun-Blanquet procedures, 14 plant communities, which can be placed into six major groups, were identified. A clas- sification and description of these communities, as well as a vegetation map are presented. Associated gradients in habitat were identified by using an ordination algorithm (DECORANA). The diagnostic species as well as the prominent and less conspicuous species of the tree, shrub, herb and grass strata are outlined.