Wetland plant communities in the Potchefstroom Municipal Area, North-West, South Africa

Abstract

Wetlands in natural areas in South Africa have been described before, but no literature exists concerning the phytosociology of urban wetlands. The objective of this study was to conduct a complete vegetation analysis of the wetlands in the Potchefstroom Municipal Area. Using a numerical classification technique (TWINSPAN) as a first approximation, the classification was refined by using Braun-Blanquet procedures. The result is a phytosociological table from which a number of unique plant communities are recognised. These urban wetlands are characterised by a high species diversity, which is unusual for wetlands. Reasons for the high species diversity could be the different types of disturbances occurring in this area. Results of this study can be used to construct more sensible management practises for these wetlands.