Effects of carcass decomposition on vegetation dynamics in Bankenveld grasslands of South Africa

Abstract

Carcass decomposition plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and ecosystem functioning, yet its impact on vegetation dynamics in different ecosystems remains poorly understood. This study investigates the effects of decomposing adult blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus) carcasses on vegetation dynamics in the Bankenveld grasslands of South Africa, a biodiverse and ecologically significant ecosystem. Field experiments conducted at Telperion Nature Reserve examined changes to vegetation structure, biomass production, plant species composition and nutritive value associated with the decomposition of blue wildebeest carcasses with three treatment types (control/no carcass, open carcass and caged carcass) over a period of 12 months. Results show an increase in vegetation height at all carcass sites, an increase in plant cover at caged carcass sites, a significant increase in biomass at control and caged carcass sites, a significant increase in species richness at carcass sites and no change in species diversity with a smaller decrease in veld condition scores at caged carcass sites showing a slight improvement in veld condition. These findings show that decomposition noticeably affected the variables investigated, promoting increased growth of nutrient-demanding species and altering community composition. This study suggests that carcass decomposition contributes towards the heterogeneity of Bankenveld grasslands, emphasizing that decomposition processes should be considered in management and conservation strategies for these areas.