Bangweulu Swamps Research Articles

First record of epizootic ulcerative syndrome from the Upper Congo catchment: An outbreak in the Bangweulu swamps, Zambia.

We report on the first outbreak of epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) amongst wild fish populations in the Bangweulu swamps, an inland delta, in the north of Zambia during 2014. The area supports a large and diverse fish fauna related to, but distinct from, that of the Zambezi River system where EUS outbreaks have occurred since 2006. A sizeable artisanal fishery, based on extensive fish weirs, is sustained by the annual flooding of the swamps, and observations of the disease outbreak by fishermen were recorded. Signs typical of infection with Aphanomyces invadans were observed in a number of species. Clinical observations, histology and molecular diagnostic methods were used to confirm infection with A.invadans in two of the most commonly and severely affected species. Several features of the wetland may have contributed to the outbreak and the annual recurrence of the disease. Modes by which the disease may have been introduced into the swamps are discussed. The outbreak is of great significance as the Bangweulu swamps drain into the Congo River in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa's largest drainage system with an extensive and diverse fish fauna previously unaffected by EUS.

Cavinula lilandae (Bacillariophyta), a new diatom species from the Congo Basin, Central Africa

Cavinula lilandae, a small new diatom from the Congo Basin in Central Africa, was observed in acid riverine habitats in an almost pristine tropical rain forest. It occurred in a periphytic diatom community dominated by Eunotia spp. and Fragilariforma strangulata (Zanon) Williams & Round. Beside the type locality in the Baomba Stream, and the closely located Lilanda River, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, this taxon was also observed in a small river in Zambia, north of the Bangweulu swamps. Cavinula lilandae is distinguished from other taxa within the genus Cavinula D.G. Mann & A.J. Stickle by the following characteristics: uniseriate striae becoming irregularly biseriate near the poles; irregularly formed areolae; and irregular depressions in the valve face close to the axial area which are not perforating the valve face.

Failure to detect tuberculosis in Black lechwe antelopes (Kobus leche smithemani) in Zambia

BackgroundTwo types of lechwe antelopes exclusively exist in their natural ecosystems in Zambia; the Black lechwe (Kobus leche smithemani) and the Kafue lechwe (Kobus leche kafuensis). Despite inhabiting similar ecosystems, tuberculosis has been reported in Kafue lechwe without its documentation in Black lechwe antelopes. However, the past few decades have seen a drastic decline in both lechwe populations. Whereas studies have postulated that infectious diseases such as tuberculosis are having a negative impact on the Kafue lechwe population, no information is available on Black lechwe antelopes. Thus this study was conducted to investigate tuberculosis in Black lechwe antelopes of the Bangweulu swamps in comparison with the Kafue lechwe antelopes of Lochinvar.FindingsA total of 44 lechwe antelopes (Black (n = 30): Kafue (n = 14) were sampled from Bangweulu and Lochinvar respectively. A positive case was defined with findings of gross lesions with Ziehl Nielsen and culture confirmation. Out of the 14 animals examined in Lochinvar, 21.4% [95% CI: 15.4, 44.4%] had necropsy lesions consistent with tuberculosis. The corresponding samples from 30 Black lechwe of Bangweulu yielded negative results on all the three tests.ConclusionsCurrent findings from this study intimate the possible absence of tuberculosis in Black lechwe antelopes whilst confirming the presence of tuberculosis in Kafue lechwe of the Kafue basin. The absence of tuberculosis in the Black lechwe suggests that the observed population decline may not be caused by tuberculosis. However, without detailed molecular epidemiological studies it is not possible to determine the association of M. bovis infection in sympatric animal populations. The possible role of transmission of tuberculosis between wildlife and cattle is discussed herein. Findings

Brucella seroprevalence of the Kafue lechwe ( Kobus leche kafuensis) and Black lechwe ( Kobus leche smithemani): Exposure associated to contact with cattle

We investigated Brucella seroprevalence in Kafue ( Kobus leche kafuensis) and Black ( Kobus leche smithemani) lechwe antelopes to assess Brucella infections in relation to presence/absence of cattle interaction on the wetlands. Accordingly, two study populations based on cattle interaction were assesed: Kafue lechwe from Kafue flats which interact with cattle; and the Black lechwe with no known interaction with cattle from the Bangweulu swamps. Fourteen Kafue lechwe and thirty Black lechwe were slaughtered between October and December 2009 using special research licenses obtained from the Zambia wildlife authority to investigate diseases in lechwe antelope. For the purpose of this study, blood was collected and sera separated for Rose Bengal and indirect ELISA tests. Seroprevalence of Brucella in the Kafue lechwe was estimated at 42.9% [95% CI: 15.2-70.5] while that in Black lechwe was 0% [95% CI:0.0-11.6]. On the Kafue flats, cattle were spotted grazing in the same areas as lechwe while there was no evidence of cattle presence on the Bangweulu swamps. These differences in seroprevalence between Kafue lechwe and Black lechwe were assumed to be associated with interaction between Kafue lechwe and Brucella infected cattle, and no such contact existed between cattle and the Black lechwe. Our study suggests that brucellosis in the Kafue lechwe may have originated from cattle but has now established a reservoir in wild animals. It is also important to keep in mind that the Black lechwe can easily become infected with Brucella spp. once cattle are introduced in the surrounding areas.

Revising estimates of the Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex) population size in the Bangweulu Swamp, Zambia, through a combination of aerial surveys and habitat suitability modelling

The Shoebill Balaeniceps rex is a threatened bird of inaccessible papyrus swamps in central and eastern Africa, and is thus difficult to census. We conducted an aerial survey of Shoebills in the Bangweulu Swamps of north-eastern Zambia using a microlight aircraft in July 2006, and used strip transect methodology to estimate population size. We then applied maximum entropy modelling to satellite images to produce a quantitative map of the likelihood of habitat being suitable (occupied), based on the location of Shoebill sightings. Population size was then re-estimated based on the extent of potentially suitable habitat, which covered 37% of the swamp. Our most conservative mean population size estimate of 1 296 individuals is 550% higher than previous estimates. We suggest that previous estimates may have been underestimates. Our study provides the first estimate of the extent of potentially suitable habitat and an estimate of the population size of Shoebills for the entire swamp. Our analysis of potential habitat suitability can be used to guide future Shoebill surveys, and our methodology can be applied to other little known and inaccessible sites to improve estimates of population size continent-wide.

Nutritional status and feeding patterns of rural preschool Zambian children living in different ecological areas

Nutritional status and dietary intake of 1088 children (age 0–5 years) living in rural Zambia were examined. Two ecologically different areas in Samfya District were studied: the Bangweulu Swamps, a fishing‐focused area, and the Mainland of the district, an agricultural oriented area. Prevalence of underweight and wasting was significantly higher in children living in the Swamps compared to those on the Mainland. Prevalence of stunting and underweight increased rapidly with age from three to six months onwards. A significantly lower frequency of consumption of nutritionally important food groups was observed in children living in the Swamps compared to those on the Mainland. All children from zero to 12 months of age were breast‐fed; supplementary feeding started mostly at three to six months of age. The higher prevalence of underweight and wasting in children living in the Swamps compared to those on the Mainland, may be explained by a less adequate diet and other consequences of living in an underprivileged environment.

Sustainability of Fishing in the Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia

This paper explores the ecological and economic dimensions of sustainable resource use in the Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia, based on analysis of data accumulated over a ten year period. Analysis focuses on the four main commercial fishing methods, and reveals a transition of fish species and catch amount varied between 1983 and 1993 for each fishing method. The localized fish trading system has also changed over the decade. Due to the eco- nomic degradation of the nation, barter system has become more dominant than cash trade among the fishermen and the fish traders in the swamps. The author fears that a WWF-pro- moted project begun in 1990 has disregarded the indigenous management of the resources, and advocates taking into account the indigenous way of use.

Participation of local fishermen in scientific fisheries data collection: a case study from the Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia

The feasibility of participation by local fishermen in scientific fisheries data collection for stock assessment is described. Artisanal fishermen from the Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia, collected length‐frequency data for 1 year from their catch using the main fishing methods employed in the swamps as well as experimental gears. It is shown that with this method, it is possible to obtain large quantities of reliable and relatively cheap length‐frequency data that allow for a full length‐based stock assessment, including cohort analysis. There are also indications that with a proper feedback of the findings by the research institutions to the fishing communities, this sampling method might enhance the awareness of exploitation patterns and the management consequences. This may be seen as a first step in preparing the communities to take up their role in a community‐based approach in the management of the fish resources.

The people's role in wetlands management: the Zambian initiative

The WWF-Zambia Wetlands Project is an established Project of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Service under the Zambia Ministry of Tourism. The Project is supported by the World Wide Fund for Nature International (WWF-I) in association with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN). The Core Projects Areas are the Kafue Flats and Bangweulu Swamps wetlands, areas rich in fish and wildlife resources. The Kafue flats are also important for hydro-electric power generation, agricultural irrigation, urban water supply, and natural grazing for traditional cattle. After years of neglect and the exclusion of the aspirations and interests of local people, the WWF-Zambia Wetlands Project was established in order to integrate local people with the management, conservation and sustainable development of the Project Areas. It is expected that this approach will lead to increasing benefits for the local communities which in turn will provide greater incentives for the proper management of the Project Areas. The two central themes of the Project, sustainable natural resource management and community development, are thus being woven together by the Project. This is being done by establishing a formal infrastructure of Community Development Units based on existing, functioning traditional systems of Chiefdoms. These are represented by local Authorities which are linked to central Government through District Councils, the Project and other line departments active in the Project Areas. A system is evolving through the National Parks and Wildlife Service's Wildlife Conservation Revolving Fund whereby a proportion of funds generated in the Project Areas are returned to the local communities (the Admade Programme). It is intended that sufficient revenues will be generated eventually to support local community development initiatives, and assist central Government with its natural resource management responsibilities by employing local community members to support activities in the field. The Project is still in the initial stage of a controlled experiment in wetlands resource management. Whilst many improvements in the Project's approach are anticipated in the years to come, it has already reopened the door for local communities to participate in and benefit from the management of their traditional resources.

Fishing Life in the Bangweulu Swamps (2): An Analysis of Catch and Seasonal Emigration of the Fishermen in Zambia

Fishing Life in the Bangweulu Swamps (2): An Analysis of Catch and Seasonal Emigration of the Fishermen in Zambia

Fishing life in the Bangweulu swamps: a socio-ecological study of the swamp fishermen in Zambia

The swamp fishermen enter into the Bangwculu swamps ll·mn their main village out of the swamps in the dry season when the water level decreases. They aim at selling their catch to the markets in Copperbelt cities. In this paper, fishing methods used by them are described, and the catch by each method arc analysed. The swamp fishermen carry their fishing not only in the daytime, but also engage in night fishing, by which they can get nocturnal fishes ellcctively. They form the production units called nsanga mainly throgh their affinity for fishing and selling their catch. The fishing methods selected by them difl(·r from nsanga to nsanga in a fishing camp, accordingly, the fishing period. time and caught species also vary. Such utilization of the swamps can be regarded as a segregation among the swamp fishermen.

A Comparison of Fishing Strategies in the Bangweulu Swamps

The fishing strategies in the Bangweulu Swamps, Northern Zambia, are described and analysed based on the data obtained from a three month field study in 1983. At the Muilika fishing camp, situated in the' center of the Swamps, six fishing methods were employed by a total of 19fishing units consisting of27 fishermen. A comparison was made of the fishing effort allocated to the six fishing methods by these 19 units. In spite of a difference found in the allocation pattern of fishing effort, no significant difference in fishing efficiency was found among the fishing units . For ukusakila (fish-driving method), comparisons of efficiencies were made between the two variations of ukusakila method, among various sizes of co-fishing group, and among fishing units, none of which showed a significant difference. It is suggested that overall fishing efficiencies are levelled out in the long run by the fishermen who disperse their effort to diflerent strategies and cooperate in using a small fishing ground so as not to reduce efficiencies. In group fishing, a social factor based on kinship ties is also important, although it may not be directly relevant to the optimization of fishing efliciency.

AERIAL CENSUSES OF SHOEBILLS, SADDLEBILLED STORKS AND WATTLED CRANES AT THE BANGWEULU SWAMPS AND KAFUE FLATS, ZAMBIA

Summary Howard, G. W. & Aspinwall, D. R. 1984. Aerial censuses of Shoebills, Saddlebilled Storks and Wattled Cranes at the Bangweulu Swamps and Kafue Flats, Zambia. Ostrich 55: 207–212. Aerial counts of three wetland species of uncertain conservation status were made in Zambia when the opportunity arose during Lechwe Kobus leche censuses. A portion of the Bangweulu Swamps was estimated to have a minimum population of 232 Shoebills Balaeniceps rex, 275 Saddlebilled Storks Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis and 1718 Wattled Cranes Bugeranus carunculatus. An estimate of 3282 Wattled Cranes on part of the Kafue Flats was very similar to that calculated in a count there nine years previously. Further censuses are recommended.

The breeding behaviour of the shoebill or whale‐headed stork Balaeniceps rex in the Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia

SummaryObservations made through almost the whole of one breeding season are summarized. Although scientific observations were secondary to making a television film, many new data were gathered.The breeding season occupies 140–145 days from nestbuilding to loss of contact with the young. All recent records show that Zambian shoebills breed in the dry season, though elsewhere the season is more flexible.Nests are large mounds of wet vegetation, continually added to throughout the breeding season. C. 2 is normal, C. 1 frequent, C. 3 occasional. During incubation both sexes incubate and frequently water the eggs.Young are hatched nearly helpless, without exaggerated bills; but must feed themselves at once from chewed‐up fish presented by an adult. Stages in their development are described. The fledging period is 95 days to first leaving the nest, roosting on it thereafter for another 10 days. At 105 days the young could fly short distances. Usually, as in this case, one young is reared, but two and even three large fledglings are recorded.Both sexes brood, feed, and water the young, watering continuing on hot days until the young is active enough to obtain water for itself. Parental behaviour is largely governed by the food requirement and development of plumage of the young. In the late fledging period the male brings most food while the female spends most time on the nest.Food given was entirely catfish and snakes, catfish predominating in the early stages. In the last 60 days of the fledging period about six prey items were required daily by the single young.Contact with the young was finally lost 11 8 days after hatching. It was then still dependent on its parents for food but could fly and began to make attempts to catch prey.Possible affinities of the Shoebill as revealed by behaviour are discussed. It resembles storks Ciconiidae more than herons Ardeidae, while its behaviour patterns do not resemble those of the hammerkop (Scopus: Scopidae) or pelicans Pelecanidae, despite superficial and some anatomical similarities.RésuméLes observations résumées ici ont été faites durant une saison de reproduction presque complète. Bien que le but principal ait été de réaliser un film pour la télévision, de nombreuses données scientifiques nouvelles furent récoltées.La saison de reproduction dure de 140 à 145 jours depuis la construction du nid jusqu' à l'indépendance du jeune. Toutes les données récentes montrent que les Becs‐en‐sabot se reproduisent en Zambie durant la saison séche, bien qu'ailleurs l'époque de reproduction soit plus variable.Les nids sont des amas de végétation humide, complétés continuellement tout au long de la saison de reproduction. Un nombre de 2 æufs est normal, d'un est fréquent et de trois occasionnel. Durant l'incubation, les deux parents couvent et aspergent fréquemment les ceufs.Les jeunes éclosent quasi sans défense et n'ont pas encore le bec massif; mais ils doivent immédiatement se nourrir seuls des poissons mastiqués que leur apportent un adulte. Les étapes de leur développement sont décrites. La période de production de plumes est de 95 jours jusqu'à la première sortie du nid, après quoi le jeune perche dessus durant 10 jours encore. A 105 jours, le jeune peut voler surde courtes distances. Habituellement, comme dans le cas présent, l jeune est élevé, mais 2 et même 3 grands jeunes ont été notés.Les deux sexes couvent, nourrissent et aspergent le jeune, et les aspersions con‐tinuent durant les jours chauds jusqu'à ce que le jeune soit assez actif pour se procurer hi‐mêmede l'eau. Lecomportement parental est largement conditionné parlebesoin de nourriture et le développement du plumage du jeune. Dans la dernière phase de constitution des plumes, le mâle apporte plus de nourriture alors que la femelle passe plus de temps sur le nid.La nourriture consiste exclusivement en poissons‐chat et en serpents, le poisson‐chat prédominant dans les premiers stades. Durant les 60 derniers jours de la constitution du plumage, environ 6 proies sont nécessaires quotidiennement pour un seul jeune.Le contact avec le jeune est finalement perdu 118 jours apres I'tclosion. II est alors encore dépendant de ses parents pour las nourriture, mais peut voler et commence des tentatives pour attraper des proies.Les affinités possibles du Bec‐en‐sabot, révélées par son comportement, sont discutées. L'oiseau resemble plus aux cicognes (Ciconiidae) qu'aux hérons (Ardeidae), alors que les caractéristiques de son comportement ne ressemblent ni à celles de l'Ombrette (Scopus: Scopidue) ni à celles des pélicans (Pelecanidae), en dépit de quelques resemblances anatomiques et superficielles.