Fluctuations in food supply in an insularized and heavily grazed savanna ecosystem in Kenya

Abstract

The herbaceous plant standing crop differed significantly between seasons and vegetation types. It showed similar seasonal fluctuations in all habitat types although herbivore offtake rates differed considerably among habitats. Nutritive value of the pasture also differed between seasons, sometimes falling below minimum levels for herbivore maintenance. These conditions created considerable nutritive stress for the high-density large herbivore community. This study indicates the need for active management of plant and animal communities to maintain species and habitat diversity.