Diversity and distribution of sedges on multivariate environmental gradients
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Date
2004
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Journal of Ecology
Abstract
Relationships between environmental factors and the
distribution patterns of sedges were studied in the wetland
important bird areas of Uganda. Vegetation data
were collected using the transect and quadrat methods.
Four quadrats were located at each sampling point at
10 m intervals along the transect from dry land to open
water. Relative abundances of sedges were recorded in
each quadrat. Inventory sampling was done to record
species that were not recorded on the transects so as to
generate near complete species lists. Human influences
on vegetation such as harvesting, fire and vegetation
modification were examined along the transects. Soil
samples were collected along the transects for analysis of
P, K, Na, Ca, Mg and organic matter. Other parameters
recorded from water samples included water levels, pH
and water conductivity. Rainfall and altitude were also
recorded. Canonical correspondence analysis was used to
correlate the relative abundances of the species to
measured environmental variables. Linear correlation of
the environmental variables with principal components
indicated that water levels, altitude and rainfall were
major factors that influenced the abundance and
occurrence of sedges in the different bird areas. Sedge
distribution patterns are a function of local geological
and edaphic factors; and human-induced exogenous
disturbances.
Description
Keywords
Canonical correspondence analysis, Cyperaceae, Diversity, Wetlands
Citation
Ssegawa, P., Kakudidi, E., Muasya, M., & Kalema, J. (2004). Diversity and distribution of sedges on multivariate environmental gradients. African Journal of Ecology, 42, 21-33.