Abstract
Background: This study quantified the fine-scale habitat requirements of Chrysoritis aureus, at 11 known habitats in Gauteng and Mpumalanga, South Africa, in order to make habitat management recommendations for this endangered species.Objectives: The habitats were quantified in terms of plant species composition and structure with reference to their environmental characteristics.Method: A modified area-based phytosociological approach was used to collect floristic data along with environmental characteristics of habitats occurring on the Witwatersrand and Ventersdorp Geological Systems.Results: Species recorded were predominantly forbs and graminoids with a slightly higher number of plant species in the habitats of the Ventersdorp Geological System. Few dwarf shrubs and shrubs and very few trees were recorded. A higher number of plant species were recorded during the late growing season on both geological systems. The butterfly food plant Clutia pulchella var. pulchella L. (Euphorbiaceae) was recorded in all the habitats and was dominant in habitats in both geological systems. The occurrence of the food plant is essential for the survival of the butterfly at these habitats.Conclusion: Monitoring of the C. aureus butterfly populations and of the vegetation structure, species composition and growth forms to determine trends in the vegetation condition after planned fires; regular burning of the habitats in order to maintain suitable vegetation composition and structure; and the monitoring and eradication of alien invader plants are very important management activities to ensure the conservation of C. aureus.
Highlights
Butterflies are well known for their role in the pollination of flowering plants and they often perform unique functions in pollination (Mecenero et al 2013)
In South Africa, protected areas such as national parks and provincial nature reserves play an important role in preserving butterfly species occurring within their boundaries by conserving their habitats (Henning, Terblanche & Ball 2009)
Abiotic conditions may be modified by biotic factors, such as height and density of local vegetation
Summary
Butterflies are well known for their role in the pollination of flowering plants and they often perform unique functions in pollination (Mecenero et al 2013). In South Africa, protected areas such as national parks and provincial nature reserves play an important role in preserving butterfly species occurring within their boundaries by conserving their habitats (Henning, Terblanche & Ball 2009). Detailed analysis of the ecological requirements and resource needs of a threatened species have to be undertaken before effective conservation measures and management can be initiated (Mecenero et al 2013). The abiotic conditions, vegetation composition and structure of the habitat must be recorded and analysed to establish the requirements necessary to maintain suitable habitat and microclimate. This study quantified the fine-scale habitat requirements of Chrysoritis aureus, at 11 known habitats in Gauteng and Mpumalanga, South Africa, in order to make habitat management recommendations for this endangered species
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