The sky islands in eastern Africa: biodiversity, opportunities, and risks

Abstract

The eastern African mountains include the ranges in the contiguous Ethiopian highlands and the solitary mountains in East/Central Africa. We describe the unique features of these mountains, the vegetation belts, and the status and biogeography of the flora and fauna. We present selected case studies on (1) giant rosette plants, the intriguing landmarks of these mountains; (2) a single mountain range endemic, the charismatic Walia Ibex Capra walie; (3) wild Arabica Coffee Coffea arabica; (4) genetic diversity of alpine plant populations, which typically is extremely low and of serious concern; and (5) services these mountains provide and challenges they face, by showcasing Mount Marsabit and the Eastern Arc Mountains. We describe how climate change, land-use change, and anthropogenic impact are affecting the biodiversity and ecosystem services of the mountains and the prevailing risks and opportunities.