Ecological impacts of Rosa rubiginosa on rangelands: Case of Mphaki, in Quthing district, Lesotho

Abstract

The capacity of many rangelands in Lesotho is compromised due to plant invasion, resulting from unsuitable agricultural practices. Despite a high number and abundance of invasive plants in Lesotho, there are very few studies determining the invasion ecology to inform management interventions. Rosa rubiginosa L. is one of the most common invasive species invading the rangelands of Lesotho and has notable negative ecological impacts. The aim of this study was to assess rangeland condition following the invasion by Rosa rubiginosa and determine the ecological impacts thereof. This was achieved by assessing the herbaceous species cover and abundance, as well as edaphic factors following R. rubiginosa invasion. The results show that R. rubiginosa negatively affects rangelands by reducing the abundance of herbaceous species, including palatable grass species. In addition, it is shown that the plant alters soil conditions by increasing pH by 27% and affecting nutrient availability. This enhances growth of invasive species since they have competitive advantage in accessing available nutrients over native plants. It is therefore recommended that R. rubiginosa should be managed in the rangelands to improve rangeland productivity.