Abstract
The ecology and distribution of papyrus swamps are briefly reviewed together with the ecology, distribution structure and growth characteristics of Cyperus papyrus. Three age-classes of culm are recognized and girth and density of each are recorded along transects through mree swamps in the Upemba Basin of Zaire. A regression of culm-unit biomass on culm girth, developed for Ugandan swamps, is used to convert Upemba measurements into biomasses. It is shown that simple measurements, taken at only a single point in time, yield much information on both the structure and the dynamics of papyrus populations. It is suggested that the standing-crops of such populations are determined by available light, and by local temperature regimes, and are therefore constant, irrespective of site quality (nutrient status), for any particular climatic zone. Culm-duration (life-time) is not significantly influenced by climate and the ratio culms/rhizomes provides a useful indicator of comparative productivity. Unlike community biomass, productivity can be limited by site quality.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
