Short Communication:Shortcomings of the nearest plant methods and Dyksterhuis-related classification systems for assessing veld condition in the semi-arid regions.

Abstract

Veld condition was determined on seven farms in the Mopane veld, during two seasons using the nearest plant method and a Dyksterhuis-related classification system. During wet periods, Increaser 2c increased faster than Increasers 2b, 2a and Decreasers and this resulted in lower veld condition scores during wet periods. The limitations of this method are discussed in the light of other driving forces.

Keywords: classification; decreasers; increasers; limitations; method; mopane veld; range; season; semi-arid; south africa; veld condition score