Ecological impact and spatial distribution of invasive species Prosopis juliflora in the lake Natron basin, northern Tanzanian landscapes
Paper Details
Ecological impact and spatial distribution of invasive species Prosopis juliflora in the lake Natron basin, northern Tanzanian landscapes
Abstract
Prosopis juliflora, commonly known as Mesquite is an invasive species that poses significant ecological and socio-economic challenges in arid and semi-arid regions worldwide. Its aggressive spread in Tanzania threatens native biodiversity, agricultural productivity, and local livelihoods. This study aimed to assess the population density, distribution, and ecological impact of Prosopis juliflora in Monduli, Ngorongoro and Longido districts in the Northern Tanzania. The specific objectives for this study were to i) quantify the density of Prosopis juliflora across wards and land use types, ii) analyze its diameter size distribution, iii) comparing forb and grass richness, Shannon diversity index, abundance, and cover in areas uninvaded and invaded with Prosopis juliflora, mapping its spatial distribution and iv) evaluating the environmental and anthropogenic factors influencing population density of Prosopis juliflora. Data were collected through line transects and quadrants to record the presence and density of Prosopis juliflora across wards and land use types. The study revealed significant variability in Prosopis juliflora population densities across wards and land use types, with settlement areas and grazinglands showing the highest densities. The presence of Prosopis juliflora was associated with a significant reduction in forb and grass richness, Shannon diversity index, grass abundance and cover. Spatial distribution mapping highlighted high-density areas, particularly in Esilalei and Migungani wards, while environmental factors such as temperature, soil properties, and proximity to roads were identified as significant predictors of Prosopis juliflora density.
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Filbert T. Meela, Richard A. Giliba, Linus K. Munishi (2025), Ecological impact and spatial distribution of invasive species Prosopis juliflora in the lake Natron basin, northern Tanzanian landscapes; JBES, V26, N1, January, P57-71
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