Constitution des références floristico - physionomique et dendrométrique pour le suivi de la dynamique structurale de la végétation et des habitats du Parc National de la Ruvubu (Burundi)

Abstract

Floristico - physiognomic and dendrometric reference for monitoring the dynamics of the vegetation and habitats of the Ruvubu National Park (Burundi) The aim of this study is to improve the knowledge of the flora of the Ruvubu National Park and to characterize the dynamics of its habitats through the interpretation of the ecological spectra of the vegetation and the predominant abiotic factors in this park. Sampling was conducted on 31 permanent plots along 4 transects, one per administrative sector of the park. The study distinguishes 10 vegetation entities subdivided into 31 elementary vegetation types, i.e. as many corresponding habitats. In terms of flora, 563 species divided into 315 genera and 97 families were inventoried. The cosmopolitan families (Fabaceae, Asteraceae and Poaceae) dominate. The analysis of biological spectra shows a predominance of phanerophytes and hemicryptophytes. Phytogeographically, the flora of this park is the result of an interpenetration of the Zambezi and Eastern domains. The physiognomic and structural characteristics reflect a vegetation influenced essentially by annual bush fires. The absence of these fires, especially late in the season, could lead to a resumption of progressive habitat dynamics in this park. The baselines outputed in this article will facilitate the strengthening of a system for monitoring the dynamics of habitats that is has been undertaken in protected areas in Burundi.

Keywords

• horology
• floristico - physiognomic and dendrometric reference
• dynamics
• impact of fires
• ruvubu national park