The origins Kakamega Forest grasslands: a critical review.

摘要: The Kakamega Forest is dotted with twenty five grasslands (glades) that vary in size, structure and composition. There a further the nearby Kisere Forest. Variation composition function of use to which these have been subjected to. Their origins subject intense debate without consensus. Earlier theories pointed soils as main cause. Other proposed fires grazing causes grasslands. This study proposes new theory incorporates some earlier theories. It large wild herbivores elephants buffaloes, were resident long before coming Europeans, solely responsible for formation maintenance These later exterminated by European hunters, while few remained emigrated Mt. Elgon forest 1920s. Humans only became factor maintained following population decline through cattle rearing burning. fire stimulate grass growth, domestic herds cutting roofing replaced role herbivores. activities present. Evidence mitigates human can be seen newly established Reserve. reserve under management Kenya Wildlife Service. Grasslands this are quickly being re-colonized because absence abolishment