The impact of land use and land cover change on biodiversity within and adjacent to Kibasira Swamp in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania
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Date
2017-09-06
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
WILEY
Abstract
Wetlands are crucial ecosystems with multiple values and functions to a range of
different stakeholders. The future of wetlands depends both on the legacy of the
past and how they are currently used. Using 48 vegetation survey plots (0.08 ha)
combined with Landsat 5 and 7 TM imagery, we assessed the influence of longterm
(1990–2011) land use and land cover change on the biodiversity of the Kibasira
Swamp. Information on perceptions of adjacent communities on historical
changes and drivers for the changes were also collected. Results showed an increase
in the area covered by open water by 1% and forest by 4% between 1990 and
1998 whilst Cyperus papyrus L and cultivated land area decreased by 8% and 3%,
respectively on the same period. Between 1998 and 2011, there was a decrease in
areas covered by water by 35% and forest by 9% whereas C. papyrus L increased
by 40% and cultivated land increased by 8%. These changes have affected the biodiversity
of the swamp and adjacent to it as numbers of mammals have declined.
However, the Swamp still provides extensive habitat for plants and bird species
despite the ongoing human pressure. Interventions may be necessary to maintain
biodiversity in Kibasira Swamp to ensure sustainable ecosystem services.
Description
Keywords
anthropogenic degradation, ecosystem services, land cover, livelihoods, wetlands
Citation
Seki HA, Shirima DD, Courtney Mustaphi CJ, Marchant R, Munishi PKT. The impact of land use and land cover change on biodiversity within and adjacent to Kibasira Swamp in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania. Afr J Ecol. 2017;00:1–9. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12488