Rocky outcrops form islands of high and unique tree biodiversity within an ocean of grass in Serengeti National Park

Rocky outcrops, or kopjes, in Serengeti National Park act as biodiversity hotspots for trees, significantly increasing tree abundance and species richness compared to the surrounding grass-dominated savannah. These unique ecosystems host distinct tree communities, particularly at sites with lower precipitation, where differences between kopje and matrix plots are most pronounced. Dominant tree species on kopjes exhibit functional traits such as evergreen foliage, higher specific leaf area, lower leaf nitrogen content, and reduced spine density, suggesting adaptations to locally moist conditions and lower fire frequencies. This study highlights the critical role of kopjes in shaping tree biodiversity, with potential implications for ecosystem functioning and higher trophic levels.

van der Plas, F., & Olff, H. (2024). Rocky outcrops form islands of high and unique tree biodiversity within an ocean of grass in Serengeti National Park. African Journal of Ecology, 62(3). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.13313