A study on the application technology of the sterile insect technique, with focus on false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a pest of citrus in South Africa
- Authors: Nepgen, Eugene Stephan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- Control -- South Africa , Insect pests -- Control -- South Africa , Insect sterilization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5879 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013199
- Description: False codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is considered the most important indigenous pest of citrus in southern Africa. Major concerns such as progressive insecticidal resistance, the negative impact of insecticides on the environment, as well as the influence of consumers opposed to chemical residues on fruit, created opportunities for biological control methods such as Sterile Insect Technology (SIT). This technology is now established in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa as an effective, sustainable alternative to conventional FCM control methods. Due to the prevalence of the pest in all citrus producing areas of South Africa, potential for SIT to expand is enormous. Success of an SIT programme is highly dependent on efficient application of the technology to achieve its objectives in a timeous manner. The aim of this study was to advance the application of SIT for control of FCM on citrus in South Africa, by investigating the effect of certain critical stages in the process. The effect of long-distance transportation on fitness of irradiated FCM was determined, showing reduced performance with cold-immobilized transport. A significant decrease in flight ability and longevity of irradiated FCM was found, although critically, realized fecundity was not affected. The effect of two different insecticides in the pyrethroid and organophosphate chemical groups were investigated for their residual effect on mortality of released irradiated FCM, to determine if these pest control programmes could be integrated. Both chlorpyrifos and tau-fluvalinate were effective in killing irradiated FCM for a number of days after application, after which degradation of the active ingredient rendered it harmless. This effect was found to be similar for irradiated and non-irradiated males, consequently ratios of sterile : wild male FCM should be retained regardless of whether sprays are applied or not. The modes for release of sterile FCM in an SIT programme were investigated. Efficacy of ground and aerial release platforms were tested by evaluating the recovery of released irradiated male FCM in these orchards. More irradiated FCM were recovered in orchards released from the ground compared to air. However, an economic analysis of both methods shows application of irradiated insects over a large geographical area is more cost-effective by air. Depending on the terrain and size of the target area, a combination of both methods is ideal for application of SIT for control of FCM in citrus. Development of application technology for advance of the programme is discussed and recommendations for future research and development are offered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nepgen, Eugene Stephan
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Cryptophlebia leucotreta , Citrus -- Diseases and pests -- Control -- South Africa , Insect pests -- Control -- South Africa , Insect sterilization
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5879 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013199
- Description: False codling moth (FCM), Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is considered the most important indigenous pest of citrus in southern Africa. Major concerns such as progressive insecticidal resistance, the negative impact of insecticides on the environment, as well as the influence of consumers opposed to chemical residues on fruit, created opportunities for biological control methods such as Sterile Insect Technology (SIT). This technology is now established in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa as an effective, sustainable alternative to conventional FCM control methods. Due to the prevalence of the pest in all citrus producing areas of South Africa, potential for SIT to expand is enormous. Success of an SIT programme is highly dependent on efficient application of the technology to achieve its objectives in a timeous manner. The aim of this study was to advance the application of SIT for control of FCM on citrus in South Africa, by investigating the effect of certain critical stages in the process. The effect of long-distance transportation on fitness of irradiated FCM was determined, showing reduced performance with cold-immobilized transport. A significant decrease in flight ability and longevity of irradiated FCM was found, although critically, realized fecundity was not affected. The effect of two different insecticides in the pyrethroid and organophosphate chemical groups were investigated for their residual effect on mortality of released irradiated FCM, to determine if these pest control programmes could be integrated. Both chlorpyrifos and tau-fluvalinate were effective in killing irradiated FCM for a number of days after application, after which degradation of the active ingredient rendered it harmless. This effect was found to be similar for irradiated and non-irradiated males, consequently ratios of sterile : wild male FCM should be retained regardless of whether sprays are applied or not. The modes for release of sterile FCM in an SIT programme were investigated. Efficacy of ground and aerial release platforms were tested by evaluating the recovery of released irradiated male FCM in these orchards. More irradiated FCM were recovered in orchards released from the ground compared to air. However, an economic analysis of both methods shows application of irradiated insects over a large geographical area is more cost-effective by air. Depending on the terrain and size of the target area, a combination of both methods is ideal for application of SIT for control of FCM in citrus. Development of application technology for advance of the programme is discussed and recommendations for future research and development are offered.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Age, growth, reproduction and sexual dimorphism of the striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba, off the south-east coast of southern Africa
- Authors: Bishop, Amy Ruth
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Striped dolphin -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Striped dolphin -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Dolphins -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dimorphism (Animals)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5848 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011600 , Striped dolphin -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Striped dolphin -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Dolphins -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dimorphism (Animals)
- Description: The striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba, is an oceanic dolphin found worldwide in tropical to warm temperate waters. Globally populations are threatened through direct fishing, bycatch and pollution. Little is known about the life history of this species in South African waters and it is currently listed as ‘Data Deficient’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Critical to the conservation and management of this species is an understanding of basic life history parameters. For the present study, metadata and tissues from 101 stranded S. coeruleoalba along the south-east coast of southern Africa between 1969 and 2012 were analyzed to examine age and growth, male and female reproduction and sexual dimorphism. Age and growth were determined by counting the number of growth layer groups (GLG’s) present in their teeth. A von Bertalanffy growth curve gave the best fit to the data and indicated that physical maturity was reached around 21 years in males and 18 years in females. Additionally, asymptotic lengths were reached at 231cm and 224cm in males and females, respectively. The maximum ages obtained were 21 years for males and 20 years for females. Length at birth was estimated to be between 116cm and 119cm for males and between 112cm and 114cm for females. The reproductive status of the adult dolphins was assessed by histological and macroscopic analyses of gonadal tissue. Sexual maturity was attained before physical maturity in both sexes. The males reached sexual maturity between 8 and 12 years of age and between 209 and 224cm in total body length. The maximum combined testis weight comprised about 0.24% of the total body weight and sexual maturity was reached between a combined testis weight of 16 and 41g, a mean testis length of 8 and 10cm, and a mean seminiferous tubule diameter of 44 and 70μm. Females attained sexual maturity between 7 and 8 years of age and between 213 and 216 cm in total body length. The ovulation rate was 0.32 per year and the majority of ovulations occurred in the left ovary, with ovulations occurring in the right ovary only in individuals older than 10 years of age. The annual pregnancy rate was calculated to be 26%. Reproductive seasonality could not be established due to the small sample size and the absence of samples throughout the year. However, both conceptions and births appear to occur in both August and December/January. Additionally, testis weight and seminiferous tubule diameters appear to fluctuate throughout the year, which could suggest reproductive seasonality in this species. Sexual size dimorphism in mature adults was evident for a number of external measurements, however, sexual shape dimorphism was not present in this species. Mature males had significantly longer and wider pectoral fins, dorsal fins and flukes than females (p<0.05 in all cases). It was suggested that the larger appendages are required for male on male combat during intraspecific competition for females. Additionally, larger appendages aid in thermoregulation, propulsion and maneuverability. Females had a significantly greater distance between the tip upper jaw and the genital aperture and anus, which was expected due to differences in anatomy between male and female genital openings. Overall, S. coeruleoalba did not exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism and together with the relatively small testes in relation to the total body weight (0.24%) it was proposed that this species demonstrates a less extreme form of polygyny. Additionaly, the results of this study are important to the understanding of the basic biology of the species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Bishop, Amy Ruth
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Striped dolphin -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Striped dolphin -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Dolphins -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dimorphism (Animals)
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5848 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011600 , Striped dolphin -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Striped dolphin -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Striped dolphin -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Conservation -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Development -- Africa, Southern , Dolphins -- Africa, Southern -- Reproduction , Dolphins -- Age determination -- Africa, Southern , Dimorphism (Animals)
- Description: The striped dolphin, Stenella coeruleoalba, is an oceanic dolphin found worldwide in tropical to warm temperate waters. Globally populations are threatened through direct fishing, bycatch and pollution. Little is known about the life history of this species in South African waters and it is currently listed as ‘Data Deficient’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Critical to the conservation and management of this species is an understanding of basic life history parameters. For the present study, metadata and tissues from 101 stranded S. coeruleoalba along the south-east coast of southern Africa between 1969 and 2012 were analyzed to examine age and growth, male and female reproduction and sexual dimorphism. Age and growth were determined by counting the number of growth layer groups (GLG’s) present in their teeth. A von Bertalanffy growth curve gave the best fit to the data and indicated that physical maturity was reached around 21 years in males and 18 years in females. Additionally, asymptotic lengths were reached at 231cm and 224cm in males and females, respectively. The maximum ages obtained were 21 years for males and 20 years for females. Length at birth was estimated to be between 116cm and 119cm for males and between 112cm and 114cm for females. The reproductive status of the adult dolphins was assessed by histological and macroscopic analyses of gonadal tissue. Sexual maturity was attained before physical maturity in both sexes. The males reached sexual maturity between 8 and 12 years of age and between 209 and 224cm in total body length. The maximum combined testis weight comprised about 0.24% of the total body weight and sexual maturity was reached between a combined testis weight of 16 and 41g, a mean testis length of 8 and 10cm, and a mean seminiferous tubule diameter of 44 and 70μm. Females attained sexual maturity between 7 and 8 years of age and between 213 and 216 cm in total body length. The ovulation rate was 0.32 per year and the majority of ovulations occurred in the left ovary, with ovulations occurring in the right ovary only in individuals older than 10 years of age. The annual pregnancy rate was calculated to be 26%. Reproductive seasonality could not be established due to the small sample size and the absence of samples throughout the year. However, both conceptions and births appear to occur in both August and December/January. Additionally, testis weight and seminiferous tubule diameters appear to fluctuate throughout the year, which could suggest reproductive seasonality in this species. Sexual size dimorphism in mature adults was evident for a number of external measurements, however, sexual shape dimorphism was not present in this species. Mature males had significantly longer and wider pectoral fins, dorsal fins and flukes than females (p<0.05 in all cases). It was suggested that the larger appendages are required for male on male combat during intraspecific competition for females. Additionally, larger appendages aid in thermoregulation, propulsion and maneuverability. Females had a significantly greater distance between the tip upper jaw and the genital aperture and anus, which was expected due to differences in anatomy between male and female genital openings. Overall, S. coeruleoalba did not exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism and together with the relatively small testes in relation to the total body weight (0.24%) it was proposed that this species demonstrates a less extreme form of polygyny. Additionaly, the results of this study are important to the understanding of the basic biology of the species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
An assessment of human carnivore conflict in the Kalahari region of Botswana
- Authors: Klein, Rebecca Ann
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Carnivores -- Botswana , Carnivores -- Effect of human beings on -- Botswana , Human-animal relationships , Predatory animals -- Control -- Botswana , Wildlife depredation -- Botswana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5876 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013132
- Description: Human wildlife conflict is a considerable conservation challenge that threatens many carnivore species worldwide and is a result of complex socio-economic and ecological processes. An understanding of the drivers of conflict is essential for any efforts to achieve coexistence. This study investigated the levels of conflict, livestock management and tolerance amongst the farming communities of the Southern and Western Kalahari in Botswana. A questionnaire survey was completed with 310 farmers throughout the region. The majority of respondents regarded coexisting with carnivores as a challenge, with losses due to depredation perceived as the greatest problem facing farmers. Conflict was widespread throughout the study area, with some spatial variations for certain species. Cattle management levels were low and while smallstock management was better, the use of improved levels of management could reduce current levels of conflict. Tolerance levels were generally low with few respondents seeing the benefits of coexistence with carnivore species. The results indicated that farm type, gender, education level, source of income, livestock numbers, location and land use all have an effect on perceived conflict and tolerance levels and strongly interact with each other. In general cattleposts were characterised by higher proportions of females, lower education levels, more benefits derived from wildlife and veld products and fewer livestock than fenced ranches. They also experienced more conflict, carried out more management and had better tolerance levels. It could be that closer connections to the land and deriving benefits from natural resources resulted in more tolerance and this is certainly worth further investigation. An improvement in the use of effective methods of livestock management, targeted environmental education programs to develop a greater awareness for the conservation value of carnivores and a diversification of livelihoods to include benefits from natural resources have the potential to reduce conflict and improve tolerance in the Kalahari region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Klein, Rebecca Ann
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Carnivores -- Botswana , Carnivores -- Effect of human beings on -- Botswana , Human-animal relationships , Predatory animals -- Control -- Botswana , Wildlife depredation -- Botswana
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5876 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013132
- Description: Human wildlife conflict is a considerable conservation challenge that threatens many carnivore species worldwide and is a result of complex socio-economic and ecological processes. An understanding of the drivers of conflict is essential for any efforts to achieve coexistence. This study investigated the levels of conflict, livestock management and tolerance amongst the farming communities of the Southern and Western Kalahari in Botswana. A questionnaire survey was completed with 310 farmers throughout the region. The majority of respondents regarded coexisting with carnivores as a challenge, with losses due to depredation perceived as the greatest problem facing farmers. Conflict was widespread throughout the study area, with some spatial variations for certain species. Cattle management levels were low and while smallstock management was better, the use of improved levels of management could reduce current levels of conflict. Tolerance levels were generally low with few respondents seeing the benefits of coexistence with carnivore species. The results indicated that farm type, gender, education level, source of income, livestock numbers, location and land use all have an effect on perceived conflict and tolerance levels and strongly interact with each other. In general cattleposts were characterised by higher proportions of females, lower education levels, more benefits derived from wildlife and veld products and fewer livestock than fenced ranches. They also experienced more conflict, carried out more management and had better tolerance levels. It could be that closer connections to the land and deriving benefits from natural resources resulted in more tolerance and this is certainly worth further investigation. An improvement in the use of effective methods of livestock management, targeted environmental education programs to develop a greater awareness for the conservation value of carnivores and a diversification of livelihoods to include benefits from natural resources have the potential to reduce conflict and improve tolerance in the Kalahari region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Biological control as an integrated control method in the management of aquatic weeds in an urban environmental and socio-political landscape : case study : Cape Town Metropolitan Area
- Authors: Stafford, Martha Louise
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Aquatic weeds -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Aquatic weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Water hyacinth -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Metropolitan areas -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5874 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013015
- Description: Aquatic weeds transform and degrade the ecosystems which they invade, impacting various aspects of their surroundings ranging from the community level to disrupting important processes affecting ecosystem services. All of the major aquatic weeds of South Africa are found in the Cape Town Metropolitan Area. Landowners, whether private or public, are legally obliged to manage the listed invasive species through applying environmentally acceptable methodologies. This thesis provides an overview of the strategic management options, prevention, early detection, rapid response and eradication of new invasions, and containment and control species of established species. It discusses the different control methods available for managing aquatic weeds, namely mechanical, manual, chemical and biological, and the integration of different methods to improve their effectiveness. Although various studies have shown that biological control is the most cost–effective, environmentally-friendly and sustainable method, it is not yet fully integrated into weed management programmes in South Africa. In addition, the successes achieved in other parts of the world with the control of water hyacinth through biological control have not been repeated in the urban environment, despite the fact that South Africa has the highest number of biological control agents available for the weed. Urbanisation puts pressure on the natural environment and ecosystem functioning. Nutrient-enriched waters support aquatic weed growth and pose a challenge to the management thereof, in particular with regard to integrating biological control into management programmes. The aims of this study were to determine the reasons for the lack of integration of biological control into weed management programmes in South Africa, to determine the feasibility of integrating biological control in aquatic weed management programmes in a complex urban environmental and socio-political landscape by means of three case studies in the Cape Town Metropolitan Area, which showed that biological control is feasible in urban environments and should be considered. Two surveys were conducted to determine the reasons for the lack of integration of biological control into weed management programmes. The surveys showed that there is a gap between research and implementation as a result of poor communication, non-supporting institutional arrangements and a lack of appropriate capacity and skills at the implementation level. Recommendations were offered to address these issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Stafford, Martha Louise
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Aquatic weeds -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Aquatic weeds -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Water hyacinth -- Biological control -- South Africa -- Cape Town , Metropolitan areas -- South Africa -- Cape Town
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5874 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013015
- Description: Aquatic weeds transform and degrade the ecosystems which they invade, impacting various aspects of their surroundings ranging from the community level to disrupting important processes affecting ecosystem services. All of the major aquatic weeds of South Africa are found in the Cape Town Metropolitan Area. Landowners, whether private or public, are legally obliged to manage the listed invasive species through applying environmentally acceptable methodologies. This thesis provides an overview of the strategic management options, prevention, early detection, rapid response and eradication of new invasions, and containment and control species of established species. It discusses the different control methods available for managing aquatic weeds, namely mechanical, manual, chemical and biological, and the integration of different methods to improve their effectiveness. Although various studies have shown that biological control is the most cost–effective, environmentally-friendly and sustainable method, it is not yet fully integrated into weed management programmes in South Africa. In addition, the successes achieved in other parts of the world with the control of water hyacinth through biological control have not been repeated in the urban environment, despite the fact that South Africa has the highest number of biological control agents available for the weed. Urbanisation puts pressure on the natural environment and ecosystem functioning. Nutrient-enriched waters support aquatic weed growth and pose a challenge to the management thereof, in particular with regard to integrating biological control into management programmes. The aims of this study were to determine the reasons for the lack of integration of biological control into weed management programmes in South Africa, to determine the feasibility of integrating biological control in aquatic weed management programmes in a complex urban environmental and socio-political landscape by means of three case studies in the Cape Town Metropolitan Area, which showed that biological control is feasible in urban environments and should be considered. Two surveys were conducted to determine the reasons for the lack of integration of biological control into weed management programmes. The surveys showed that there is a gap between research and implementation as a result of poor communication, non-supporting institutional arrangements and a lack of appropriate capacity and skills at the implementation level. Recommendations were offered to address these issues.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Dietary aspects of establishing a mainland-based colony of the endangered African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus) in St Francis Bay, South Africa
- Authors: Voogt, Nina Margaret
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: African penguin -- South Africa -- Cape Saint Francis , African penguin -- Food -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay , African penguin -- Habitat suitability index models -- South Africa -- Cape Saint Francis , Stable isotopes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013115
- Description: Cape St Francis, Eastern Cape, has been identified as one of four potential sites for establishing a mainland-based African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) colony. This thesis comprises three main components: a verification of a preparation method for stable isotope samples from penguin feathers; a dietary analysis of the penguins on Bird Island, Algoa Bay, though stable isotope analysis of whole blood and feathers (2012 and 2013); and an estimation of available fish surplus that could potentially support a colony of penguins at Cape St Francis. Each component contributes towards the next, all building towards answering the main research question: Will there be enough food around St Francis Bay to support a colony of penguins and sustain the already established fisheries industry within the bay? Stable isotope analysis of whole blood and feathers from breeding adults and whole blood from juveniles provided insight into the variability of African penguins’ diets at different stages in their life history. Stable isotope mixing models indicated that the predicted proportions that each prey species could potentially contribute to diet conflicted with published stomach sample data. This might arise from inaccurate trophic enrichment factors used in the model, or from systematic biases in the published stomach sampling techniques, or both. Dietary sexual dimorphism was not demonstrated by the isotope signatures of breeding penguins. Based on official catch data, the fisheries activity on the south coast, and especially around the potential colony site at St Francis, is much lower than around the west coast’s penguin colonies. The model provided a first-order estimate for fish supply around the potential colony site at St Francis both at a large coastal scale and a local small scale. At both scales the estimate indicated an ample availability of fish at current fishing levels. The model in Chapter 4 can also be applied to refining the assessments of other potential colony sites on the south coast. In conclusion, the south coast is a promising area for a new colony of penguins in terms of food availability. There is relatively low fishing activity in the area and, as suggested by the large-scale model in Chapter 4, an ample fish resource. The final chapter briefly discusses factors that need to be considered before attempting to establish a mainland-based colony of African penguins.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Voogt, Nina Margaret
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: African penguin -- South Africa -- Cape Saint Francis , African penguin -- Food -- South Africa -- Algoa Bay , African penguin -- Habitat suitability index models -- South Africa -- Cape Saint Francis , Stable isotopes
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5875 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013115
- Description: Cape St Francis, Eastern Cape, has been identified as one of four potential sites for establishing a mainland-based African penguin (Spheniscus demersus) colony. This thesis comprises three main components: a verification of a preparation method for stable isotope samples from penguin feathers; a dietary analysis of the penguins on Bird Island, Algoa Bay, though stable isotope analysis of whole blood and feathers (2012 and 2013); and an estimation of available fish surplus that could potentially support a colony of penguins at Cape St Francis. Each component contributes towards the next, all building towards answering the main research question: Will there be enough food around St Francis Bay to support a colony of penguins and sustain the already established fisheries industry within the bay? Stable isotope analysis of whole blood and feathers from breeding adults and whole blood from juveniles provided insight into the variability of African penguins’ diets at different stages in their life history. Stable isotope mixing models indicated that the predicted proportions that each prey species could potentially contribute to diet conflicted with published stomach sample data. This might arise from inaccurate trophic enrichment factors used in the model, or from systematic biases in the published stomach sampling techniques, or both. Dietary sexual dimorphism was not demonstrated by the isotope signatures of breeding penguins. Based on official catch data, the fisheries activity on the south coast, and especially around the potential colony site at St Francis, is much lower than around the west coast’s penguin colonies. The model provided a first-order estimate for fish supply around the potential colony site at St Francis both at a large coastal scale and a local small scale. At both scales the estimate indicated an ample availability of fish at current fishing levels. The model in Chapter 4 can also be applied to refining the assessments of other potential colony sites on the south coast. In conclusion, the south coast is a promising area for a new colony of penguins in terms of food availability. There is relatively low fishing activity in the area and, as suggested by the large-scale model in Chapter 4, an ample fish resource. The final chapter briefly discusses factors that need to be considered before attempting to establish a mainland-based colony of African penguins.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Geographical variation in effects of nutrient levels and grazing intensity on community structure between upwelling and non-upwelling regions of South Africa
- Authors: Steele, Nikita
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Upwelling (Oceanography) , Upwelling (Oceanography) -- Indian Ocean , Algae -- Indian Ocean , Algae -- Effect of grazing on -- Indian Ocean
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5873 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013013
- Description: The aim of this thesis was to assess the influence of upwelling on alga-grazer interactions in rocky shore communities along the south coast of South Africa using grazer exclusion treatments with controls and procedural controls set out in a block design and monitored for algal cover roughly monthly for one year. In the first experiment grazers were excluded from treatment plots at two upwelling and two non-upwelling sites and the rates of algal biomass accumulation were then compared. The upwelling sites showed significantly faster algal colonisation rates, with Ulva rigida being the first species to colonise the rocks. Final algal cover and biomass did not differ significantly between upwelling and non-upwelling sites in control plots open to grazers, but were significantly higher in grazer exclusion plots at upwelling sites indicating stronger grazing effects. This was confirmed by estimating the intensity of grazing using the log-response ratio (LRR), which was calculated from treatment and control plots. Upwelling sites had significantly lower LLR values indicating stronger grazing effects, than at non-upwelling sites, despite no difference in grazer abundances. The second experiment examined the effects of nutrient addition on algal growth and community composition by comparing high nutrient enrichment plots with low enrichment plots at one upwelling and one non-upwelling site. ANOVA indicated faster growth rates and significantly higher final algal biomass in high enrichment plots compared to low enrichment and control plots at both upwelling and non-upwelling sites. A two-way ANOVA indicated significantly higher algal cover in high enrichment plots compared to the data from the grazer exclusion plots in experiment 1 at both sites, suggesting that nutrient addition plays a major role in algal growth and community composition. The findings of these studies have shown significant differences between treatments, sites and seasons, with significant differences not only occurring in algal cover but also accumulation of algal biomass and recruitment patterns between treatments. The small scale local processes acting within a few centimetres (plots) or tens of meters (among blocks) can also be reflected over larger scales such as sites (upwelling/non-upwelling shores). Further, these studies have demonstrated that various factors such as the effects from increased nutrients at upwelling cells and the change in grazing effects due to enhanced nutrients can determine the abundance and diversity of the community structure, including an increase in the abundance of the fast growing algae Ulva rigida, and a slow recovery of the brown and red algae.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Steele, Nikita
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Upwelling (Oceanography) , Upwelling (Oceanography) -- Indian Ocean , Algae -- Indian Ocean , Algae -- Effect of grazing on -- Indian Ocean
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5873 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013013
- Description: The aim of this thesis was to assess the influence of upwelling on alga-grazer interactions in rocky shore communities along the south coast of South Africa using grazer exclusion treatments with controls and procedural controls set out in a block design and monitored for algal cover roughly monthly for one year. In the first experiment grazers were excluded from treatment plots at two upwelling and two non-upwelling sites and the rates of algal biomass accumulation were then compared. The upwelling sites showed significantly faster algal colonisation rates, with Ulva rigida being the first species to colonise the rocks. Final algal cover and biomass did not differ significantly between upwelling and non-upwelling sites in control plots open to grazers, but were significantly higher in grazer exclusion plots at upwelling sites indicating stronger grazing effects. This was confirmed by estimating the intensity of grazing using the log-response ratio (LRR), which was calculated from treatment and control plots. Upwelling sites had significantly lower LLR values indicating stronger grazing effects, than at non-upwelling sites, despite no difference in grazer abundances. The second experiment examined the effects of nutrient addition on algal growth and community composition by comparing high nutrient enrichment plots with low enrichment plots at one upwelling and one non-upwelling site. ANOVA indicated faster growth rates and significantly higher final algal biomass in high enrichment plots compared to low enrichment and control plots at both upwelling and non-upwelling sites. A two-way ANOVA indicated significantly higher algal cover in high enrichment plots compared to the data from the grazer exclusion plots in experiment 1 at both sites, suggesting that nutrient addition plays a major role in algal growth and community composition. The findings of these studies have shown significant differences between treatments, sites and seasons, with significant differences not only occurring in algal cover but also accumulation of algal biomass and recruitment patterns between treatments. The small scale local processes acting within a few centimetres (plots) or tens of meters (among blocks) can also be reflected over larger scales such as sites (upwelling/non-upwelling shores). Further, these studies have demonstrated that various factors such as the effects from increased nutrients at upwelling cells and the change in grazing effects due to enhanced nutrients can determine the abundance and diversity of the community structure, including an increase in the abundance of the fast growing algae Ulva rigida, and a slow recovery of the brown and red algae.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Predation by alien largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides Lacepéde 1802 (Centrarchidae: Perciformes), on indigenous marine fish species in the Kowie System, South Africa
- Authors: Magoro, Mandla Leon
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Largemouth bass -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Largemouth bass -- Food -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- Predators of , Centrarchidae , Fishes -- Effect of human beings on
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5851 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011939 , Largemouth bass -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Largemouth bass -- Food -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- Predators of , Centrarchidae , Fishes -- Effect of human beings on
- Description: Estuaries serve as nursery areas for a large number of estuary-associated fish species. Some of these taxa also use river catchments as nursery areas. During the upstream migration of this latter group, the juveniles are prone to predation by native and alien predatory fish inhabiting the system. The rate of invasion of ecosystems by alien organisms can be directly linked to anthropogenic influences, including both intentional and unintentional introductions by alien organisms into new regions. The largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, is a facultative piscivorous fish that has been successfully introduced worldwide for the main purpose of sport fishing. Where introduced, it has been found to negatively impact native fish and invertebrate species through predation, competitive exclusion and displacement of indigenous fish species. The aim of this thesis was to investigate the predatory impact of largemouth bass on the estuary-associated Cape moony Monodactylus falciformis, Cape stumpnose Rhabdosargus holubi and freshwater mullet Myxus capensis in the lower Kowie River of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A combination of approaches was employed during this study. Stomach contents, stable isotopes and fatty acid analyses were employed for the reconstruction of the diet of largemouth bass. Acoustic telemetry was used to elucidate largemouth bass movements, particularly their ability to enter the upper reaches of the Kowie Estuary. Stomach contents and stable isotopes analyses showed that M. salmoides exhibit an ontogenic shift in diet, with small and medium sized individuals consuming the higher proportion of fish prey, while large sized individuals mostly consumed invertebrates such as crabs (Potamonautes sidneyi) and Odonata larvae, while consuming only a small proportion of estuary-associated fish. Fatty acid analysis only showed a direct connection between the fatty acid profiles of largemouth bass and those of M. capensis and M. falciformis. The acoustic telemetry results indicated that some M. salmoides individuals periodically move into the upper reaches of the estuary following river flood events. The results obtained from all these approaches highlight the risk posed by largemouth bass introductions on indigenous fish species, particularly those that enter the areas occupied by these top predators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Magoro, Mandla Leon
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Largemouth bass -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Largemouth bass -- Food -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- Predators of , Centrarchidae , Fishes -- Effect of human beings on
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5851 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011939 , Largemouth bass -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Largemouth bass -- Food -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- South Africa -- Port Alfred , Estuarine fishes -- Predators of , Centrarchidae , Fishes -- Effect of human beings on
- Description: Estuaries serve as nursery areas for a large number of estuary-associated fish species. Some of these taxa also use river catchments as nursery areas. During the upstream migration of this latter group, the juveniles are prone to predation by native and alien predatory fish inhabiting the system. The rate of invasion of ecosystems by alien organisms can be directly linked to anthropogenic influences, including both intentional and unintentional introductions by alien organisms into new regions. The largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides, is a facultative piscivorous fish that has been successfully introduced worldwide for the main purpose of sport fishing. Where introduced, it has been found to negatively impact native fish and invertebrate species through predation, competitive exclusion and displacement of indigenous fish species. The aim of this thesis was to investigate the predatory impact of largemouth bass on the estuary-associated Cape moony Monodactylus falciformis, Cape stumpnose Rhabdosargus holubi and freshwater mullet Myxus capensis in the lower Kowie River of the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. A combination of approaches was employed during this study. Stomach contents, stable isotopes and fatty acid analyses were employed for the reconstruction of the diet of largemouth bass. Acoustic telemetry was used to elucidate largemouth bass movements, particularly their ability to enter the upper reaches of the Kowie Estuary. Stomach contents and stable isotopes analyses showed that M. salmoides exhibit an ontogenic shift in diet, with small and medium sized individuals consuming the higher proportion of fish prey, while large sized individuals mostly consumed invertebrates such as crabs (Potamonautes sidneyi) and Odonata larvae, while consuming only a small proportion of estuary-associated fish. Fatty acid analysis only showed a direct connection between the fatty acid profiles of largemouth bass and those of M. capensis and M. falciformis. The acoustic telemetry results indicated that some M. salmoides individuals periodically move into the upper reaches of the estuary following river flood events. The results obtained from all these approaches highlight the risk posed by largemouth bass introductions on indigenous fish species, particularly those that enter the areas occupied by these top predators.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
Temporal variability in the fatty acid composition of suspension-feeders and grazers on a South African rocky shore
- Authors: Ndhlovu, Rachel Tintswalo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Lipids , Suspension feeders -- South Africa , Intertidal organisms -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- Food -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- Life cycles -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- Reproduction , Benthos -- South Africa , Intertidal ecology -- South Africa , Fatty acids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5949 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020879
- Description: Numerous ecological studies have used lipids to determine trophic pathways in aquatic systems, as fatty acid profiles provide time-integrated information on an organism’s assimilated diet. Many of these studies have, however, been based on sample collections with a limited temporal scale. The trophic ecology of pelagic systems has been studied intensively using fatty acid analyses, but very little work has been directed toward benthic communities, with the intertidal being especially neglected. The investigation of trophic pathways within rocky shore communities will help us to better understand system responses to environmental changes. The determination of long term temporal variation of the food web within a community could reveal the type, magnitude, duration and frequency of highly seasonal productivity. Changes in fatty acid profiles through time in primary consumers of intertidal rocky shores are poorly understood, but represent an important step towards a more comprehensive understanding of rocky shore food webs, compared with those derived from snapshot or short-term studies. The aim of this thesis was to clarify the temporal variability in the diets of rocky shore intertidal suspension-feeders (the brown mussels Perna perna and the Cape reef worm, Gunnarea gaimardi) and grazers (the Cape sea urchin Parencinus angulosus and the Goat-eye limpet, Cymbulus oculus) on the south east coast of South Africa using fatty acid profiles, and to investigate the effects of life style (e.g. feeding mode) and life cycle on temporal variations in tissue fatty acid profiles. I had three hypotheses: firstly, that suspension-feeders experience high levels of variability in their diets through time because water quality has the potential to change quickly and drastically, whereas grazers experience less variability in their diets over time since their food sources are more constant. Secondly, the reproductive cycles of the suspension-feeder P. perna and the grazer P. angulosus affect the fatty acid composition of their gonads, with temporal variations in lipid composition reflecting changes in reproduction investment. Thirdly, the total amount of energetic reserves available for reproduction are different for each gender (females allocate more energy to egg production than males allocate to gamete production). To address these aims, fatty acid profiles of suspension-feeders and grazers were investigated over a period of twelve months (from July 2010 to June 2011) at a single site on the south east coast of South Africa. The results showed high variability in the fatty acid composition of both the suspension-feeders strongly related with changes in their food source (suspended particulate material). Furthermore, similar temporal changes in fatty acid profiles of the two suspension-feeders were observed over time, reflecting their common diet and life style. There were some inter-specific differences in the suspension-feeders, likely originating from differences in their particle capturing mechanisms. Grazers showed less variability through time compared with the suspension-feeders, with the limpets being more consistent than the sea urchins. The temporal variability in the sea urchin diets may have resulted from the highly diverse and heterogeneous food sources available to them, whereas limpets may be more selective and have a limited range of diet items. Differences between the two grazer species may have arose from differences in their feeding strategies and intertidal zonation. The fatty acid compositions of gonad tissues in both P. perna and P. angulosus showed temporal variability strongly related to reproductive cycle. Differences in the fatty acid values between females and males were apparent, with females richer in total and polyunsaturated fatty acids than males. Spawning and gametogenesis influenced the variability of fatty acids through time in both species, suggesting the importance of considering the reproductive cycle when studying lipids in rocky shore species. Little evidence of lipid transfer between muscles and gonads was seen, suggesting the importance of direct lipid storage into the reproductive tissues. The influence of diet and life history of intertidal consumers on the temporal variability of their fatty acid compositions is important to understand, as it provides us with a better understanding of the functioning of rocky shore systems. There is an enormous potential for future research in this field of study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Ndhlovu, Rachel Tintswalo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Lipids , Suspension feeders -- South Africa , Intertidal organisms -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- Food -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- Life cycles -- South Africa , Marine invertebrates -- Reproduction , Benthos -- South Africa , Intertidal ecology -- South Africa , Fatty acids
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5949 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1020879
- Description: Numerous ecological studies have used lipids to determine trophic pathways in aquatic systems, as fatty acid profiles provide time-integrated information on an organism’s assimilated diet. Many of these studies have, however, been based on sample collections with a limited temporal scale. The trophic ecology of pelagic systems has been studied intensively using fatty acid analyses, but very little work has been directed toward benthic communities, with the intertidal being especially neglected. The investigation of trophic pathways within rocky shore communities will help us to better understand system responses to environmental changes. The determination of long term temporal variation of the food web within a community could reveal the type, magnitude, duration and frequency of highly seasonal productivity. Changes in fatty acid profiles through time in primary consumers of intertidal rocky shores are poorly understood, but represent an important step towards a more comprehensive understanding of rocky shore food webs, compared with those derived from snapshot or short-term studies. The aim of this thesis was to clarify the temporal variability in the diets of rocky shore intertidal suspension-feeders (the brown mussels Perna perna and the Cape reef worm, Gunnarea gaimardi) and grazers (the Cape sea urchin Parencinus angulosus and the Goat-eye limpet, Cymbulus oculus) on the south east coast of South Africa using fatty acid profiles, and to investigate the effects of life style (e.g. feeding mode) and life cycle on temporal variations in tissue fatty acid profiles. I had three hypotheses: firstly, that suspension-feeders experience high levels of variability in their diets through time because water quality has the potential to change quickly and drastically, whereas grazers experience less variability in their diets over time since their food sources are more constant. Secondly, the reproductive cycles of the suspension-feeder P. perna and the grazer P. angulosus affect the fatty acid composition of their gonads, with temporal variations in lipid composition reflecting changes in reproduction investment. Thirdly, the total amount of energetic reserves available for reproduction are different for each gender (females allocate more energy to egg production than males allocate to gamete production). To address these aims, fatty acid profiles of suspension-feeders and grazers were investigated over a period of twelve months (from July 2010 to June 2011) at a single site on the south east coast of South Africa. The results showed high variability in the fatty acid composition of both the suspension-feeders strongly related with changes in their food source (suspended particulate material). Furthermore, similar temporal changes in fatty acid profiles of the two suspension-feeders were observed over time, reflecting their common diet and life style. There were some inter-specific differences in the suspension-feeders, likely originating from differences in their particle capturing mechanisms. Grazers showed less variability through time compared with the suspension-feeders, with the limpets being more consistent than the sea urchins. The temporal variability in the sea urchin diets may have resulted from the highly diverse and heterogeneous food sources available to them, whereas limpets may be more selective and have a limited range of diet items. Differences between the two grazer species may have arose from differences in their feeding strategies and intertidal zonation. The fatty acid compositions of gonad tissues in both P. perna and P. angulosus showed temporal variability strongly related to reproductive cycle. Differences in the fatty acid values between females and males were apparent, with females richer in total and polyunsaturated fatty acids than males. Spawning and gametogenesis influenced the variability of fatty acids through time in both species, suggesting the importance of considering the reproductive cycle when studying lipids in rocky shore species. Little evidence of lipid transfer between muscles and gonads was seen, suggesting the importance of direct lipid storage into the reproductive tissues. The influence of diet and life history of intertidal consumers on the temporal variability of their fatty acid compositions is important to understand, as it provides us with a better understanding of the functioning of rocky shore systems. There is an enormous potential for future research in this field of study.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The demography, spatial ecology and reproductive success of the black rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis, in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa
- Authors: Nhleko, Zoliswa Nombulelo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (South Africa) , Black rhinoceros -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Animal populations -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Spatial ecology -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Black rhinoceros -- Reproduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5849 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011825 , Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (South Africa) , Black rhinoceros -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Animal populations -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Spatial ecology -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Black rhinoceros -- Reproduction
- Description: Black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) are endangered; there are only ~5000 individuals remaining worldwide. Consequently, black rhinos are managed as a metapopulation in southern Africa. This means that even though several sub-populations of black rhinos are geographically separated, they are managed as a single population. This is achieved by interchanging genetic material between the sub-populations. The main aim of the metapopulation management approach is to increase black rhino numbers in the sub-region. The Rhino Management Group (RMG), formed in 1989, was tasked with setting scientifically defensible demographic targets for the remaining black rhino sub-populations in southern Africa. In the same year, the RMG set fecundity rate at 25% and stated that each black rhino sub-population should achieve a minimum growth rate of 5% per year. The black rhino population in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is of international importance as it has historically been a significant donor population for the translocation of black rhinos to establish new subpopulations elsewhere in the sub-region. However, the black rhino population at HiP is performing poorly in terms of reproductive success. My study was initiated to assess the reproductive life-histories of the black rhino population at HiP and to determine whether the population was meeting the demographic targets set by the RMG. I also wished to assess the use of space by black rhinos in HiP as a potential explanation for the observed reproductive output. Detailed life-history information for known black rhinos (n = 120) was used to investigate reproductive success between 1998 and 2012. The mean age at sexual maturity (ASM) was determined as 12 years, which is higher than the ASM found in black rhino populations that are considered to be performing poorly (ASM = ~ 7 years). The intercalving interval (ICI) was three years, nine months; this was also longer than the ICI of most black rhino populations. Further, the 2012 black rhino population at HiP had a growth rate of 6.4%, and the population comprised 60% adults, 23% sub-adults and 13% juveniles. Such demographics are usually observed in stable populations and it is possible that poor habitat quality could be resulting in the delayed ASM and longer ICI’s at HiP. In addition, 5% of the population is removed annually as part of the Black Rhino Range Expansion Program (BRREP) to establish new sub-populations. This could also be negatively influencing the reproductive performance of the HiP population. To determine the home range and habitat use of black rhinos at HiP, field data from 13 individual adult black rhinos (n = 9 females and 4 males) over a two-year period (2011-2012) were analyzed. Black rhino female home ranges were slightly smaller (15.4 ± 12.9 km²) than the home ranges of males (23.3 ±14.0 km²) and both sexes utilized similar habitats in the centre of the park. In addition, both the male and female black rhinos were found closer to rivers and drainage lines than expected. However, the assessment of black rhino space use in HiP was limited by a small sample size, making inferences of the impact of space use on reproductive success difficult. Nevertheless, my study suggests that food availability likely influences the location and sizes of black rhino home ranges at HiP. I believe that my study forms the first step in understanding the factors that influence the reproductive success and habitat use patterns of the current black rhino population at HiP. The information produced by my study should enable park management to identify future research to be conducted at HiP, which will yield more robust data for making informed black rhino management decisions at HiP and elsewhere.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nhleko, Zoliswa Nombulelo
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (South Africa) , Black rhinoceros -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Animal populations -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Spatial ecology -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Black rhinoceros -- Reproduction
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5849 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011825 , Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (South Africa) , Black rhinoceros -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Animal populations -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Spatial ecology -- South Africa -- Hluhluwe , Black rhinoceros -- Reproduction
- Description: Black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) are endangered; there are only ~5000 individuals remaining worldwide. Consequently, black rhinos are managed as a metapopulation in southern Africa. This means that even though several sub-populations of black rhinos are geographically separated, they are managed as a single population. This is achieved by interchanging genetic material between the sub-populations. The main aim of the metapopulation management approach is to increase black rhino numbers in the sub-region. The Rhino Management Group (RMG), formed in 1989, was tasked with setting scientifically defensible demographic targets for the remaining black rhino sub-populations in southern Africa. In the same year, the RMG set fecundity rate at 25% and stated that each black rhino sub-population should achieve a minimum growth rate of 5% per year. The black rhino population in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, is of international importance as it has historically been a significant donor population for the translocation of black rhinos to establish new subpopulations elsewhere in the sub-region. However, the black rhino population at HiP is performing poorly in terms of reproductive success. My study was initiated to assess the reproductive life-histories of the black rhino population at HiP and to determine whether the population was meeting the demographic targets set by the RMG. I also wished to assess the use of space by black rhinos in HiP as a potential explanation for the observed reproductive output. Detailed life-history information for known black rhinos (n = 120) was used to investigate reproductive success between 1998 and 2012. The mean age at sexual maturity (ASM) was determined as 12 years, which is higher than the ASM found in black rhino populations that are considered to be performing poorly (ASM = ~ 7 years). The intercalving interval (ICI) was three years, nine months; this was also longer than the ICI of most black rhino populations. Further, the 2012 black rhino population at HiP had a growth rate of 6.4%, and the population comprised 60% adults, 23% sub-adults and 13% juveniles. Such demographics are usually observed in stable populations and it is possible that poor habitat quality could be resulting in the delayed ASM and longer ICI’s at HiP. In addition, 5% of the population is removed annually as part of the Black Rhino Range Expansion Program (BRREP) to establish new sub-populations. This could also be negatively influencing the reproductive performance of the HiP population. To determine the home range and habitat use of black rhinos at HiP, field data from 13 individual adult black rhinos (n = 9 females and 4 males) over a two-year period (2011-2012) were analyzed. Black rhino female home ranges were slightly smaller (15.4 ± 12.9 km²) than the home ranges of males (23.3 ±14.0 km²) and both sexes utilized similar habitats in the centre of the park. In addition, both the male and female black rhinos were found closer to rivers and drainage lines than expected. However, the assessment of black rhino space use in HiP was limited by a small sample size, making inferences of the impact of space use on reproductive success difficult. Nevertheless, my study suggests that food availability likely influences the location and sizes of black rhino home ranges at HiP. I believe that my study forms the first step in understanding the factors that influence the reproductive success and habitat use patterns of the current black rhino population at HiP. The information produced by my study should enable park management to identify future research to be conducted at HiP, which will yield more robust data for making informed black rhino management decisions at HiP and elsewhere.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The epibiotic relationship between mussels and barnacles
- Authors: Bell, Caroline Margaret
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Epibiosis , Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa , Mussels -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mussels -- Habitat -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Ecology -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Behavior -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Habitat -- South Africa , Perna -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mytilus galloprovincialis -- Behavior -- South Africa , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011460 , Epibiosis , Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa , Mussels -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mussels -- Habitat -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Ecology -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Behavior -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Habitat -- South Africa , Perna -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mytilus galloprovincialis -- Behavior -- South Africa , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa
- Description: Epibiosis is an ecological relationship that has been described as one of the closest possible associations in marine ecosystems. In the space limited rocky intertidal, mussel beds provide important secondary space for barnacles. The epibiotic relationship between mussels and barnacles on the south-east coast of South Africa was considered at different scales, from large-scale, natural patterns of epibiosis on the rocky shore, to fine-scale settlement choices of barnacles and the effects on the condition and growth rates of individual mussels. Mussel and barnacle assemblages were generally stable over a 12-month period. The tracking of individual mussels with and without barnacle epibionts resulted in a significant increase in mortality rate of mussels with epibionts over 12 months (two-way ANOVA, p = 0.028). Barnacles on rocks, as well as on mussels, were also tracked with no significant effect of substratum on mortality of barnacles (two-way ANOVA, p = 0.119). Prevalence and intensity of barnacle infestations was also examined in relation to coastline topography on two co-occurring mussel species, the indigenous Perna perna and invasive Mytilus galloprovincialis. The results were complex, but bay status had significant effects on prevalence and intensity for both mussel species, depending on the time and zone. The effect of bay in relation to time was particularly relevant for M. galloprovincialis (four-way nested ANOVA, Season X Site(Bay): p = 0.0002), where summer prevalence was higher than that of winter in bays, regardless of zone, while in open coast sites, the effect of season was only significant in the mid zone. Patterns of intensity generally showed higher values in summer. Substratum preference by barnacles was investigated by recording settlement, survival and mortality of Chthamalus dentatus barnacles on various treatments. There was a strong preference for the rock-like plastic substratum by primary settlers (pair-wise tests of PERMANOVA: Dead < Rock mimic (p = 0.0001); Replica < Rock mimic (p = 0.019) and Live < Rock mimic (p = 0.0001)). This indicates that barnacles settle on mussel shells only as a secondary choice and that micro-topography is an important variable in barnacle settlement. The effect of barnacle epibiosis on condition index and growth of P. perna and M. galloprovincialis was also examined as a direct indication of the health of mussels subjected to the biological stress of epibiosis. Although not significant (PERMANOVA: P. perna: p(perm) = 0.890; M. galloprovincialis: p(perm) = 0.395), growth for both mussel species was slower for barnacle-infested individuals in summer, which is the main growing season for mussels in the region. Results from condition index calculations, however, showed no negative impacts of epibiotic barnacles (three-way ANCOVA: P. perna: p = 0.372; M. galloprovincialis: p = 0.762). Barnacle epibionts create a new interface between the mussel and its environment and this interaction can affect other members of the community. The possibility of the barnacle epibiont causing increased drag also needs further investigation. Biological processes operating within a wide range of physical stressors drive the interactions on the rocky shore, such as epibiosis. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the epibiotic relationship between mussels and barnacles on the south-east coast of South Africa does not significantly affect the mussel species present and that barnacles only use mussel shells as a secondary choice of substratum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Bell, Caroline Margaret
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Epibiosis , Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa , Mussels -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mussels -- Habitat -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Ecology -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Behavior -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Habitat -- South Africa , Perna -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mytilus galloprovincialis -- Behavior -- South Africa , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5847 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1011460 , Epibiosis , Mussels -- Ecology -- South Africa , Mussels -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mussels -- Habitat -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Ecology -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Behavior -- South Africa , Barnacles -- Habitat -- South Africa , Perna -- Behavior -- South Africa , Mytilus galloprovincialis -- Behavior -- South Africa , Marine biodiversity -- South Africa
- Description: Epibiosis is an ecological relationship that has been described as one of the closest possible associations in marine ecosystems. In the space limited rocky intertidal, mussel beds provide important secondary space for barnacles. The epibiotic relationship between mussels and barnacles on the south-east coast of South Africa was considered at different scales, from large-scale, natural patterns of epibiosis on the rocky shore, to fine-scale settlement choices of barnacles and the effects on the condition and growth rates of individual mussels. Mussel and barnacle assemblages were generally stable over a 12-month period. The tracking of individual mussels with and without barnacle epibionts resulted in a significant increase in mortality rate of mussels with epibionts over 12 months (two-way ANOVA, p = 0.028). Barnacles on rocks, as well as on mussels, were also tracked with no significant effect of substratum on mortality of barnacles (two-way ANOVA, p = 0.119). Prevalence and intensity of barnacle infestations was also examined in relation to coastline topography on two co-occurring mussel species, the indigenous Perna perna and invasive Mytilus galloprovincialis. The results were complex, but bay status had significant effects on prevalence and intensity for both mussel species, depending on the time and zone. The effect of bay in relation to time was particularly relevant for M. galloprovincialis (four-way nested ANOVA, Season X Site(Bay): p = 0.0002), where summer prevalence was higher than that of winter in bays, regardless of zone, while in open coast sites, the effect of season was only significant in the mid zone. Patterns of intensity generally showed higher values in summer. Substratum preference by barnacles was investigated by recording settlement, survival and mortality of Chthamalus dentatus barnacles on various treatments. There was a strong preference for the rock-like plastic substratum by primary settlers (pair-wise tests of PERMANOVA: Dead < Rock mimic (p = 0.0001); Replica < Rock mimic (p = 0.019) and Live < Rock mimic (p = 0.0001)). This indicates that barnacles settle on mussel shells only as a secondary choice and that micro-topography is an important variable in barnacle settlement. The effect of barnacle epibiosis on condition index and growth of P. perna and M. galloprovincialis was also examined as a direct indication of the health of mussels subjected to the biological stress of epibiosis. Although not significant (PERMANOVA: P. perna: p(perm) = 0.890; M. galloprovincialis: p(perm) = 0.395), growth for both mussel species was slower for barnacle-infested individuals in summer, which is the main growing season for mussels in the region. Results from condition index calculations, however, showed no negative impacts of epibiotic barnacles (three-way ANCOVA: P. perna: p = 0.372; M. galloprovincialis: p = 0.762). Barnacle epibionts create a new interface between the mussel and its environment and this interaction can affect other members of the community. The possibility of the barnacle epibiont causing increased drag also needs further investigation. Biological processes operating within a wide range of physical stressors drive the interactions on the rocky shore, such as epibiosis. Overall, the results of this study suggest that the epibiotic relationship between mussels and barnacles on the south-east coast of South Africa does not significantly affect the mussel species present and that barnacles only use mussel shells as a secondary choice of substratum.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The feasibility of reintroducing African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) into the Great Fish River Nature Reserve, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Page, Samantha Karin
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Great Fish River Nature Reserve (South Africa) , African wild dog -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Population biology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , African wild dog -- Reintroduction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , African wild dog -- Population viability analysis -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5915 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016078
- Description: With a declining population of roughly 3000-5000 individuals in Africa, African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) are one of the most endangered carnivores in the world. As the global human population expands, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that large portions of land will be set aside for conservation, especially in developing countries. Thus, recent wild dog conservation efforts in South Africa have concentrated on establishing a managed metapopulation. A metapopulation is a group of geographically isolated subpopulations of a species that are managed (using supplementation and harvesting) to mimic natural gene flow. The Great Fish River Nature Reserve (GFRNR) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa has been identified as a potential reserve to become part of the national wild dog metapopulation. My research aimed to conduct a feasibility assessment of the long-term (~ 25 years) success of a wild dog reintroduction into the GFRNR. This assessment included biological modelling of wild dogs and their expected prey, and determining the potential anthropogenic threats to wild dogs on the private and communal land surrounding the reserve. I used VORTEX population modelling and determined that the GFRNR is likely to have a wild dog carrying capacity of ~22 individuals. Using a 25-year modelling simulation, the most appropriate wild dog reintroduction scenario would be to reintroduce six females and four males initially and supplement the population with one female and two males in years 3, 10, 15 and 23. In addition, the harvesting/removal of one male and one female in years 10 and 20 would be required to ensure 100% population persistence and adequate genetic diversity. Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) are expected to be the two most important prey species for reintroduced wild dogs in the GFRNR. Furthermore, wild dogs are likely to prefer the north-western and south-western sectors of the reserve because of the relatively high prey densities in these areas. However, regular monitoring of both the potential prey and the wild dog populations is essential to ensure persistence of the wild dogs and to prevent prey populations decreasing precipitously. Using structured questionnaire interviews (n = 128), I found that while neighbouring land owners and local communities were generally positive about the potential wild dog reintroduction (56 % of all respondents), several threats to wild dogs were identified along the reserve boundary and on the adjoining unprotected land. Some private landowners and members of rural communities around the reserve (34 %) stated that they would kill any wild dogs that dispersed onto their land. In addition, some respondents (8 %) admitted to believing in traditional uses for wild dog products (e.g. fur) which could result in the illegal killing of wild dogs outside of the GFRNR for traditional purposes. Poaching and the presence of unvaccinated domestic dogs on neighbouring land were also identified as being potential threats to a reintroduced wild dog population. However, such anthropogenic threats appear to be localised to the western and southern boundaries of the reserve. Therefore, by implementing preventative measures (such as anti-snare collars, anti-poaching patrols and vaccination against rabies and canine distemper) the likelihood of such threats occurring can be reduced. I conclude that the GFRNR can sustain a population of wild dogs and successfully contribute to South Africa‘s national metapopulation. An additional reserve will benefit the country‘s metapopulation by increasing the number of wild dogs available for translocation, thereby increasing genetic diversity and overall resilience (to environmental change, disease etc.) of South Africa‘s wild dog population. This will contribute towards the future conservation of this endangered species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Page, Samantha Karin
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Great Fish River Nature Reserve (South Africa) , African wild dog -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , Population biology -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , African wild dog -- Reintroduction -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape , African wild dog -- Population viability analysis -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5915 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1016078
- Description: With a declining population of roughly 3000-5000 individuals in Africa, African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) are one of the most endangered carnivores in the world. As the global human population expands, it is becoming increasingly unlikely that large portions of land will be set aside for conservation, especially in developing countries. Thus, recent wild dog conservation efforts in South Africa have concentrated on establishing a managed metapopulation. A metapopulation is a group of geographically isolated subpopulations of a species that are managed (using supplementation and harvesting) to mimic natural gene flow. The Great Fish River Nature Reserve (GFRNR) in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa has been identified as a potential reserve to become part of the national wild dog metapopulation. My research aimed to conduct a feasibility assessment of the long-term (~ 25 years) success of a wild dog reintroduction into the GFRNR. This assessment included biological modelling of wild dogs and their expected prey, and determining the potential anthropogenic threats to wild dogs on the private and communal land surrounding the reserve. I used VORTEX population modelling and determined that the GFRNR is likely to have a wild dog carrying capacity of ~22 individuals. Using a 25-year modelling simulation, the most appropriate wild dog reintroduction scenario would be to reintroduce six females and four males initially and supplement the population with one female and two males in years 3, 10, 15 and 23. In addition, the harvesting/removal of one male and one female in years 10 and 20 would be required to ensure 100% population persistence and adequate genetic diversity. Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus) are expected to be the two most important prey species for reintroduced wild dogs in the GFRNR. Furthermore, wild dogs are likely to prefer the north-western and south-western sectors of the reserve because of the relatively high prey densities in these areas. However, regular monitoring of both the potential prey and the wild dog populations is essential to ensure persistence of the wild dogs and to prevent prey populations decreasing precipitously. Using structured questionnaire interviews (n = 128), I found that while neighbouring land owners and local communities were generally positive about the potential wild dog reintroduction (56 % of all respondents), several threats to wild dogs were identified along the reserve boundary and on the adjoining unprotected land. Some private landowners and members of rural communities around the reserve (34 %) stated that they would kill any wild dogs that dispersed onto their land. In addition, some respondents (8 %) admitted to believing in traditional uses for wild dog products (e.g. fur) which could result in the illegal killing of wild dogs outside of the GFRNR for traditional purposes. Poaching and the presence of unvaccinated domestic dogs on neighbouring land were also identified as being potential threats to a reintroduced wild dog population. However, such anthropogenic threats appear to be localised to the western and southern boundaries of the reserve. Therefore, by implementing preventative measures (such as anti-snare collars, anti-poaching patrols and vaccination against rabies and canine distemper) the likelihood of such threats occurring can be reduced. I conclude that the GFRNR can sustain a population of wild dogs and successfully contribute to South Africa‘s national metapopulation. An additional reserve will benefit the country‘s metapopulation by increasing the number of wild dogs available for translocation, thereby increasing genetic diversity and overall resilience (to environmental change, disease etc.) of South Africa‘s wild dog population. This will contribute towards the future conservation of this endangered species.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
The natural history of the humpback dolphin, Sousa chinensis, in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa : age, growth and reproduction
- Authors: Nolte, Zianca
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sousa -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- Behavior -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- Age determination -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- Development -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal -- Reproduction , Dolphins -- Physiology -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5878 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013178
- Description: Globally, inshore cetaceans are being threatened by a number of anthropogenic activities. The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa chinensis, is currently listed as ‘near threatened’ by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In order to be able to advise on management and conservation strategies, knowledge on the life history of the species is required. To date very little is known about the biology of humpback dolphins. The aim of the present study was to determine basic life history parameters, including age, growth and reproduction of humpback dolphins incidentally caught in shark nets. Age was estimated by counting the growth layer groups (GLGs) in the dentine and cementum of sectioned and stained teeth. Both a Von Bertalanffy and a Gompertz growth curve fitted well to the data, but for comparison with previous studies on Sousa, the Gompertz growth function was adopted to describe the relationship between length and age for KwaZulu-Natal populations. Length at birth was estimated between 104.33 and 111.57 cm for males and females, respectively. Asymptotic length was reached at 266.48 cm and 239.29 cm for males and females, respectively. This corresponds to the attainment of physical maturity at 24 GLGs in males and 16 GLGs in females. Asymptotic mass for males could not be determined, while for females it occurred around 160 kg. The maximum age estimates and recorded lengths were 24 GLGs and 279 cm for males and 17.7 GLGs and 249 cm for females. Differences in length-at-age and mass-at-age for S. chinensis suggest sexual dimorphism. The attainment of sexual maturity in males occurred between 9 and 10 GLGs, corresponding to 230 cm total body length and 140 kg. The maximum combined testis mass of mature males comprised 0.42% of total body mass, and a roving male mating system was proposed. In females, sexual maturity occurred around 7.6 GLG, between 220 and 222 cm and 104 - 140 kg. The ovulation rate is estimated at 0.2 ovulations per annum, suggesting a calving interval of five years. It is evident from the results obtained in the present study that geographical differences exist in the life history parameters of S. chinensis. As a result, regional conservation and management strategies are imperative. Results from this study can therefore assist in assessing the status of existing population structures in the KwaZulu-Natal coastal waters, and the implementation of regional mitigation strategies to ensure the continued survival of humpback dolphins in the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
- Authors: Nolte, Zianca
- Date: 2014
- Subjects: Sousa -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- Behavior -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- Age determination -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- Development -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal , Dolphins -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal -- Reproduction , Dolphins -- Physiology -- South Africa -- KwaZulu-Natal
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: vital:5878 , http://hdl.handle.net/10962/d1013178
- Description: Globally, inshore cetaceans are being threatened by a number of anthropogenic activities. The Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin, Sousa chinensis, is currently listed as ‘near threatened’ by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). In order to be able to advise on management and conservation strategies, knowledge on the life history of the species is required. To date very little is known about the biology of humpback dolphins. The aim of the present study was to determine basic life history parameters, including age, growth and reproduction of humpback dolphins incidentally caught in shark nets. Age was estimated by counting the growth layer groups (GLGs) in the dentine and cementum of sectioned and stained teeth. Both a Von Bertalanffy and a Gompertz growth curve fitted well to the data, but for comparison with previous studies on Sousa, the Gompertz growth function was adopted to describe the relationship between length and age for KwaZulu-Natal populations. Length at birth was estimated between 104.33 and 111.57 cm for males and females, respectively. Asymptotic length was reached at 266.48 cm and 239.29 cm for males and females, respectively. This corresponds to the attainment of physical maturity at 24 GLGs in males and 16 GLGs in females. Asymptotic mass for males could not be determined, while for females it occurred around 160 kg. The maximum age estimates and recorded lengths were 24 GLGs and 279 cm for males and 17.7 GLGs and 249 cm for females. Differences in length-at-age and mass-at-age for S. chinensis suggest sexual dimorphism. The attainment of sexual maturity in males occurred between 9 and 10 GLGs, corresponding to 230 cm total body length and 140 kg. The maximum combined testis mass of mature males comprised 0.42% of total body mass, and a roving male mating system was proposed. In females, sexual maturity occurred around 7.6 GLG, between 220 and 222 cm and 104 - 140 kg. The ovulation rate is estimated at 0.2 ovulations per annum, suggesting a calving interval of five years. It is evident from the results obtained in the present study that geographical differences exist in the life history parameters of S. chinensis. As a result, regional conservation and management strategies are imperative. Results from this study can therefore assist in assessing the status of existing population structures in the KwaZulu-Natal coastal waters, and the implementation of regional mitigation strategies to ensure the continued survival of humpback dolphins in the region.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2014
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