iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Maputo National Park

The impact of Eucalyptus plantations on herpetofaunal diversity, Maputo National Park, Mozambique

A study in Maputo National Park, Mozambique, reveals that derelict Eucalyptus plantations significantly reduce herpetofaunal diversity compared to natural sand thicket vegetation and cleared woodlots. While species richness was highest in untransformed habitats (17 ± 2.34 species), derelict plantations hosted only 13 ± 2.24 species, with the lowest diversity indices recorded. Surprisingly, a fossorial anuran thrived in plantations, warranting further investigation. The research suggests that clearing abandoned Eucalyptus plantations could serve as a rehabilitation strategy to restore herpetofaunal biodiversity, aligning with broader findings on exotic afforestation impacts.