An assessment of plant taxon richness and habitat distribution of Cape Inland Salt Pans, South Africa

Abstract

Cape Inland Salt Pans (Azi 9) is a distinct vegetation unit in South Africa that is characterised by saline flats, serving as vital habitats, supporting unique biodiversity. Azi9 is different from other inland salt pans as they are remnants of ancient paleolakes. Despite their distinct biodiversity, data on their plant taxa richness and habitat distribution are lacking. This assessed the plant diversity and habitat distribution of Azi 9. Salt pans were visited throughout their distribution, where taxa occurrences were georeferenced, and specimens collected. Habitat composition was mapped using ArcGIS and SA land cover classes. In total, 55 plant taxa from 17 families were recorded, with Amaranthaceae (11 taxa) and Asteraceae (9 taxa) being the most abundant. The Soutvlei, along the southeast coast, had the highest taxa (17), followed by Rocherpan (16) and Yzerfontein salt pan (15). The species, Sporobolus virginicus and Spergularia glandulosa, were the most widely distributed (30% occurrence). There was an 57.9% addition in area and refinement of mapped saline systems from previous maps (8462 ha to 13,365 ha), mainly due to the inclusion of Wadrifsoutpan in the current habitat mapping analysis. Open water and vegetation were the dominant habitat types. Given the increasing environmental pressures on these fragile ecosystems, further research is necessary to ensure long-term preservation.