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CURRENT PROJECTS: KNP SCIENTIFIC SERVICES Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Abeare SM Home range analysis of African buffalo (Syncerus caffer): test of a new method To investigate the spatial distribution of buffalo relative to vegetation variables, distance to water, topography and visibility. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Alard GF Comparing grass biomass production between sodic sites and crests in the semi-arid grantic savannas of the lowveld To test the hypothesis, which states that grass biomass production is higher on sodic sites than on the crests. 30-12-2005 Current [email protected] Andelman SJ KNB collaboration: A comparison of community dynamics in North American and South African savannas and grasslands To explore scaledependence in the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem function. 30-12-2005 Current [email protected] Anthony BP The potential for community-based conservation in promoting biological conservation and human rural development: Case study of the Hlanganani communities and the Kruger National Park, South Africa To examine the nature of the relationship, including the use and perceptions of natural resources, between Hlanganani communities (some of which are represented by the Hlanganani Forum) and the Kruger National Park. 30-09-2004 Complete [email protected] Aplin P Vegetation monitoring in the Kruger National Park using multiscale remote sensing analysis Knowledge of vegetation distribution is crucial to facilitate our understanding and management of the environment. 30-12-2005 Current [email protected] Page 2 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Ball R Investigation into antiphospholipid syndrome, phosphate depletion and iron status in black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) in wild caught and boma maintained rhinos in the Kruger National Park, RSA To compare phospholipid antibody, iron and phosphate levels, blood haematology and chemistry, and electrolyte excretion of free-ranging black rhinos with those animals kept in captivity for short and prolonged periods of time. 31-12-2003 Complete Ball R Complete blood counts, serum biochemistries and nutritional analysis of captured giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) from the Kruger National Park, RSA To determine the blood cell counts, serum biochemistries and nutritional parameters of free-ranging giraffe captured in the Kruger National Park. 31-12-2003 Complete Basson S Unnaturally eroded sodic soils rehabilitation experiment To gauge different applications of a natural substance, gypsum (CaSO4) to the soil. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Baxter P Modeling the impact of elephant on woody plant diversity in the Kruger National Park To develop a model (s) to reflect changes in the diversity of woody vegetation brought about by elephant impacts. 31-12-2002 Complete [email protected] Bengis RG Tsetse fly (Glossina morsitans) surveillance in the Kruger National Park To institute an early warning system to monitor the possible incursion of Tsetse flies into the Limpopo/Luvuvhu drainage system. On going [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 3 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Bertschinger HJ Collection and freezing of semen from buffalo in the Kruger National Park for insemination of foot and mouth disease free buffalo elsewhere in South Africa To establish whether buffalo in the Kruger National Park subclinically infected with foot and mouth disease virus harbour the virus in the semen. Bertschinger HJ Non-lethal control of African elephant (Loxodonta africana) populations by means of immunocontraception To determine the effects of porcine zona pellucida (pZP) vaccine as contraception of African elephant. Bird TLF Transmission of bovine tuberculosis (Mycobacterium bovis) in African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in the Kruger National Park To investigate some of the aspects of transmission of bovine tuberculosis (BTb) in African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in the Kruger National Park. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Bond WJ Forest Colonization od savannas: Pattern and Process To determine how broadleaved forest species invade savannas and what limits, and what promotes the invasion process. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Assessment of the influence of woody and grass vegetation in the regrowth process To develop a methodology to monitor the recovery process of vegetation by comparison of time series information derived from coarse resolution image sequences instead of analyzing it as single change events. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] .ac.be Boonen M Current Project: KNP Scientific Services 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] On going Edited: March 2005 Page 4 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Botha S The water requirements needed for seedling establishment of savanna woody species in the Kruger National Park To determine if rainfall variability limits seedling survival of different tree species during certain years. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Brock P Studies of stick insects (Phasmida) of the Kruger National Park, including the description of new species To identify phasmid species present in the Kruger National Park's fauna. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] h.uk Buckland ST Modelling the declines of large ungulates in the Kruger National Park To develop sufficient generality in the methods to allow ready application to other ungulate populations in Africa. Population dynamics models will be developed for the main ungulate species of the Kruger National Park. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Bush M Improving cardiopulmonary function for a safer field anaesthesia of white rhinoceros To develop safer field anaesthesia for white rhinoceros. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Bush M Pharmacokinetic study of long acting tetracycline in free ranging male African elephants (Loxodonta africana) To determine the dosage and route of administration for the long acting preparation of the antibiotic tetracycline. 31-12-2003 Complete Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 5 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Bush M Study of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) in lions, leopards and cheetah in the Kruger National Park To determine the immunological status of the three cat species (lions, leopards and cheetah) with regards to feline immunovirus. 31-12-2003 Complete Byrne M Monitoring a water hyacinth infestation on Engelhardt Dam as part of an integrated management plan for water hyacinth control in South Africa The development of an integrated management plan for water hyacinth control, combining biological control, herbicidal control and nutrient control tailored to the climatic regions of South Africa. 31-12-2009 Current [email protected] Cadenasso ML Structure and function of riparian upland boundaries To characterize and quantify the three dimensional structure of boundaries between riparian and upland vegetation in Kruger National Park. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Cameron E Scramble competition within a guild of browsing herbivores To test the hypothesis that giraffe bulls are displaced vertically for feeding sites above those used by cows and sub-adults. 31-12-2002 Complete [email protected] Cameron S Collection of insects for evolutionary studies of their relationships To collect insects of different genera for evolutionary studies of their relationships. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 6 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Carlens H The optimization and validation of climate and remote sensing data based fire risk assessment with fire occurrence data To link the fire risk models and drought indices, derived from meteorological data, obtained from the local weather stations, with the fire history records. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] ven.ac.be Citino SB Developing a safe, effective anaesthesia protocol for rapid anaesthesia of freeranging giraffes To develop a safe, effective anaesthetic protocol for the rapid induction of anaesthesia in free-ranging giraffe. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Codron D Seasonality and 20th century change in the feeding ecology of herbivore communities in the Northern Basalt Plains of the Kruger National Park, South Africa To investigate seasonality in the quality of forage available to, and the feeding ecology of, herbivorous mammal communities living in the Northern Basalt Plains (NBP) of the Kruger National Park (KNP), South Africa. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Codron J The sampling method of elephant (Loxodonta africana) tusks To determine seasonal and spatial differences in diets and habitat use of the Kruger National Park elephant. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Coetsee C Study of the interactions between fire, vegetation and nitrogen dynamics in the Kruger National Park To investigate the role of fire on nutrient cycling. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 7 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Investigation of the ecological role of aquifers at Shingwedzi research site, Kruger National Park To produce on a national scale a summary of known and probable groundwater dependent ecosystems in South Africa, based on geohydrological-type settings. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Conner TK An investigation into the role of anthropogenic fire in the formation of the biotic landscape of the Kruger National Park The study of anthropogenic fire in Kruger National Park is primarily motivated by a desire to understand the extent to which human influence has shaped the present character of the park savanna. 31-03-2003 Complete [email protected] Cornel AJ Systematics and population structure of disease vector members of Culex pipiens mosquito complex To obtain samples from this ancestral population in order to extrapolate baseline genetic structural data from which all future collections (2005-2009) in other countries. 31-12-2009 Current [email protected] Craine J Below ground processes experiments To determine the nature of nutrient limitation in restructuring ecosystem processes across different soil types and climates. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Cross PC Longitudinal studies of bovine tuberculosis in the buffalo population of the Kruger National Park To understand the dynamics of BTB in the buffalo population. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Colvin C Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 8 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status Davidson TM Patch structure on the Northern Plains of the Kruger National Park: Influence of changing water distribution pattern on selection and utilization by zebra (Equus burchelli) To investigate the effect the waterhole closure has had on the zebra. 31-03-1999 Complete De Klerk L Developing a bovine tuberculosis vaccination model for African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) To determine whether a live BCG vaccine can protect the African buffalo against Mycobacterium bovis infection as well as disease. 31-08-2001 Complete De Klerk L Developing a bovine tuberculosis infection model for African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) To create an experimental infection model that mimics natural Mycobacterium bovis infection in the African buffalo. 30-06-2000 Complete De Vos V The ecology of anthrax in the Kruger National Park To monitor anthrax outbreaks in the Kruger National Park. Delport W Long-term monitoring of wood owls of the Kruger National Park using vocalisation To monitor wood owls population in Kruger National Park using vocalisation. Current Project: KNP Scientific Services 31-12-2001 E-mail address [email protected] On going [email protected] Complete [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 9 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Deman K Development of a methodology to monitor fire fuel status and identity optimal fuel models using high resolution multi-spectral satellite imagery To improve and develop high spatial resolution earth observation based parameters to estimate fire probability. 30-09-2004 Complete [email protected] Dietettann VM Ecology of the African honey bees (Apis mellifera scutellata) in the Kruger National Park, South Africa To predict Varroa destructor impact using molecular techniques. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Dippenaar-Shoeman A A survey of agriculturally important mites and their predators (Arachnida) To make an inventory of the Arachnid species present in the Kruger National Park 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Dippenar-Schoeman A Survey of Arachnida of the Kruger National Park with emphasis on spiders (excluding mites and ticks) To establish spiders species lists and distribution. Doherty JB Why do giraffes occur in aggregated dispersion patterns? To have an improved understanding of giraffe social biology 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Dowson LM Breonadia salicina response to the 2000 flood, Sabie River, Kruger National Park: Implications for rule based modelling and monitoring To examine the response of Breonadia salicina to the 2000 flood in the different geomorphological channel types of the Sabie River. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address On going Edited: March 2005 Page 10 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Ungulate browsing as an ecosystem process: An investigation into browser plant-soil interactions in a southern African savanna Determination of the effects of browsing on the savanna woody vegetation. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Dye P Water use in relation to biomass of indigenous tree species in woodland, forest and plantation conditions To investigate rates of growth and water use patterns of a wide selection of indigenous tree production systems, and to make economic and hydrological comparisons to current commercial forestry systems (and other potential land uses). 31-12-2008 Current [email protected] Eckhardt HC Fixed-point photography as an aid for long-term vegetation monitoring in the Kruger National Park To use fixed point photographs to demonstrate vegetation changes over time. On going [email protected] Eckhardt HC Vertical aerial photography as an aid for ecological monitoring in the Kruger National Park To use these photographs as a tool for ecological monitoring, especially changes in vegetation cover and species composition. On going Du Toit J Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 11 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Eckhardt HC Regeneration of riparian vegetation on the Sabie river in the Kruger National Park Regeneration of riparian vegetation on the Sabie river in the Kruger National Park To establish whether seedlings of riparian species differentially utilize geomorphic sites during regeneration processes. Euston-Brown D Development of an alien vegetation clearing protocol based on ecological criteria for mesic savannas and sweet grassveld for the Working for Water programme To provide an overview of the effectiveness of existing clearing methods for major invasive species in South African mesic savanna and sweet grassveld ecosystems. 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] Fannin TGD Tourist willingness to pay for Biodiversity Conservation To determine what value tourists place on biodiversity. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] February EC Mechanism of grass/tree interactions in savannas Explaining tree/grass coexistence within savanna ecosystems. 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] February EC The genetic structure, physiology and phenology of tall and stunted Colophospermum mopane growth forms To investigate the possibility of genetic differences between tall and stunted Mopane in riparian and upland zones. 31-12-2005 Current February EC The importance of hydraulic lift for understorey grass production on a South African savanna To establish the importance of hydraulic lift in the tree-grass interaction. 31-12-2009 Current Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address On going Edited: March 2005 Page 12 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Feig G The effect of the free regime on plant carbon allocation and associated soil microbial community composition The availability of nutrients is an important determining factor in the distribution of plant species and hence affecting the distribution movement and the carrying capacity of an area on animal species. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Ferreira S The tourist carrying capacity of the Kruger National Park: Policy and Practise The tourist carrying capacity in the Southern parts of the Kruger National Park has already been exceeded. 17-04-2001 Complete [email protected] Ferwerda J Using hyperspectral remote sensing of plant chemicals to explain the interaction between secondary plant compounds and herbivores To determine the relationship between browsing, soil properties and vegetation quality using spatial statistics and linear modelling. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Fourie N The effect and distribution of diverse number of natural enemies on water hyacinth (Eichornia grassipes) in the Engelhardt dam in the Kruger National Park The effect of control on water hyacinth, should help in the understanding of biological control measures. 31-07-1999 Complete [email protected] Foxcroft L The dispersal of the cochineal (Dactylopius opuntiae) on Opuntia stricta in the Kruger National Park To determine the natural dispersal of Dactylopius opuntiae at different host plant densities within the infestations in the Kruger National Park. 31-03-2001 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 13 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Foxcroft L Factors influencing the distribution and abundance of Opuntia stricta and Cactoblastis cactorum in the Kruger National Park, South Africa The abundance of Cactoblastis cactorum is dependant on the density of the host plant Opuntia stricta. 31-12-2003 Complete Foxcroft L Patterns and processes of invasion in an African savanna ecosystem, with emphasis on multiple spatio-temporal scales The project aims at unraveling some of the key issues in invasion ecology, which have been highlighted by the KNP objectives (and subsequent reviews). 31-12-2006 Current Freeman EW The impact of age and climate on reproductive rates of African elephants (Loxodonta africana) in Kruger National Park To determine if social and environmental factors impact ovarian activity in wild and captive African elephants. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Gagiano CL An investigation of the status of Chiloglanus engiops in the Letaba river after the 2000 floods To investigate the status of the particular fish species in the Letaba River after the 2000 floods. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Giyani Tourism Development Strategy Market research amongst guests staying in the northern camps of Kruger Park to input into a Tourism Development Framework for the Greater Giyani Municipality. 28-02-2004 Complete [email protected] Gardner M Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 14 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Gardner M Tourism plan for the Limpopo valley Spatial Development Initiative tourism sectoral study To explore the tourism linkages that can be established between the Mocambique coast, in the vicinity of the Limpopo River mouth and the Macarratane, Massingir and the Great Limpopo transfrontier Park. 31-12-2003 Complete Gaylard A Factors governing elephant impacts on the riparian woodlands of certain seasonal rivers in the Northern Kruger National Park To determine the spatial and temporal variation in elephant use of the riparian zones of ephemeral rivers in the far north of the KNP over the course of the wetdry season. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Gibbon RJ Investigation into the earlier stone age (ESA) of the northern Kruger National Park To record all Earlier Stone Age artefact locations and landscape types, to understand their relationship with the landscape, past and present. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Gillson L The spatial and temporal scale of vegetation change in the Kruger National Park The spatial and temporal scale of vegetation change. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Veld burning in the Kruger National Park To gain an understanding of the attributes of natural fires, using correlated parameters such as humidity, lightning and frequency. On going [email protected] Govender N Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 15 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Govere J Bionomics of the malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis in the Kruger National Park To conduct studies on characteristics of Anopheles arabiensis mosquitoes that can be manipulated for malaria vector control. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Graham G Seismic monitoring of Southern Africa and the Mozambique channel To understand and map earthquake in South Africa. 31-12-2013 On going [email protected] Grainger M Landscape heterogeneity and its effects on spatial distribution of elephants (Loxodonta africana) in Kruger National Park, South Africa To identify the effects of landscape heterogeneity and water availability on the home range size of elephants. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Grant CC The effect of the closure of artificial waterpoints on the ecology of the far northern basalt plants in the Kruger National Park 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] 31-12-2005 Current Grant CC Feeding status and habitat selection of the roan antelope Hippotragus equinus Current Project: KNP Scientific Services To reveal baseline quantitative nutrient values for roan antelope populations in South Africa with which any population could be compared with should a nutrient deficiency be expected. Edited: March 2005 Page 16 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Grant CC The effect of differences in nutrient supply in the granite and basalt landscapes of the Kruger National Park Determining the effect of differences in nutrient supply in the granite and basalt landscapes of the Kruger National Park on seasonal movement of game and on reproduction. 31-12-2003 Complete Grant CC Review of reported habitat and food preferences of herbivores in the Kruger National Park To understand the food and habitat preferences of the ungulate herbivores. 31-01-2001 Complete Grant CC The influence of additional permanent water on the resilience of a complex adaptive ecosystem To understand the relationship between permanent water sources (including sub-surface water) and local and regional biodiversity and ecosystem function with specific emphasis on the antelope that are rare in the KNP (selective herbivores). 31-12-2008 Current Greeff JM The present status and future sustainability of the pollination system of Ficus sycomorus in the Kruger National Park To understand the sustainability of the pollination system of Ficus sycomorus in the face of climatic and habitat changes. 30-12-2007 Current Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 17 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Greyling M Population dynamics and movements of elephants in the associated Private Nature Reserves adjoining the Kruger National Park To provide data on emigration/immigration patterns, birth and mortality rates of elephants within the associated Private Nature Reserves. 31-12-2008 Current [email protected] Griffin C Is there a better way to count elephants? Assessment of distance sampling and strip transects methods in aerial surveys To assess the reliability and performance of distance and strip transect sampling methods for surveying elephant numbers. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Grobler J Rule based modelling of sediment/water and vegetation interaction in the instream environment To develop knowledge and ability to model the sediment, water and vegetation interaction and the associated morphological change in semi arid rivers. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Biocomplexity in African savannas: Nutrient Stoichiometry of soils, trees and grasses and implications for savanna structure and function in the Kruger National Park To provide a better understanding of the complex relationships and feedbacks between soil and vegetation nutrient dynamics, and their interactions with herbivores, fire and woody community dynamics in savanna systems. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Hanan NP Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 18 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status Hanan NP Biocomplexity in African savannas: Ecological self-thinning in the Kruger National Park as a measure of tree on tree competition To provide a better understanding of woody community dynamics in savanna systems, including interactions with herbivores and fire. Specifically, we plan to examine the role of tree on tree competition in structuring savanna plant communities through use. 31-12-2005 Current Hanan NP Biocomplexity in African savannas To investigate ecological complexity in the context of African savannas. 31-12-2005 Current Hanan NP African carbon exchange: Diagnosing the role of Africa in the global carbon cycle To address some of these shortcomings in our understanding of the temporal and spatial dynamics of carbon exchange in Africa. 31-12-2007 Current Hartnett DC Ecology of mycorrhizal symbiosis in South African savanna ecosystem: Patterns, controls and consequences of mycorrhizal associations at Kruger National Park To understand factors controlling the abundance and distribution of mycorrhizal fungi in savanna ecosystems of southern Africa. 31-12-2002 Complete Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 19 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Hay TC Movements, activity patterns and choice of social environment in the male buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in the central region of the Kruger National Park The predation risk hypothesis predicts that males will exploit areas of abundant, high quality food to maximize size and strength for competitive interactions with other males, but at an expense of an increased predation risk. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Henley S Habitat dependency and nutritional ecology of sable antelope in two regions of the Kruger National Park Understanding the processes underlying the observed decline in sable antelope. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Hennekens SM SynBioSys Kruger - An information system for the evaluation and supporting the management of biodiversity among plant species, vegetation types and landscapes in the Kruger National Park To enhance safeguarding of data and further data collation using Kruger developed software, SynBioSys Kruger. 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] Heritage GL An investigation into the sedimentology of morphological units across the spectrum of channel types associated with a bedrock influenced semi-arid river system To investigate the sedimentological record held within the morphological units that make up each of the channel types. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 20 of 54 Senior Researcher Hill R Title of Project Objectives The ecological determinants of group size and composition in terrestrial primates To survey the size, composition and density of baboon and vervet monkey. Finish date E-mail address Current [email protected] Hoffmann JH Evaluation of biological control of Opuntia stricta in the Kruger National Park To quantify the extent of the damage caused by Cactoblastis cactorum on Opuntia stricta in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the moth as a biological control agent. On going [email protected] Hofmeyr MV Spatial demography of selected tree species in the Kruger National Park in relation to elephant impacts To identify factors influencing selected tree species population dynamics and demography in the Kruger National Park. Current [email protected] Hofmeyr SD Giraffe utilisation of knobthorn inflorescence: A reward for pollination or simple herbivory To determine the role of giraffe in the pollination of knobthorn. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Economic valuation and conjoint analysis To derive a better understanding of environmental preferences by examining the nature of the relationship between protected areas use, socioeconomic variables and the utility derived by recreationists from various attributes of wilderness areas. 31-12-2002 Complete [email protected] Holland JD Current Project: KNP Scientific Services 31-12-2006 Project status Edited: March 2005 Page 21 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Holtzhausen LC Ennobling the wild African marula (Sclerocarya birrea subsp. Caffra Sond.) Out of 1000 indigenous edible wild fruits, marula will be the first to be commercialised. 2010 On going [email protected] Horak IG The seasonal abundance of helminth and anthropod parasites of impalas, Aepyceros melampus, in the Kruger National Park To establish a research baseline for helminth and anthropod parasite infections of impalas under normal and stressful conditions. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Horak IG The abundance and seasonal abundance of free-living ticks in the Kruger National Park 31-12-2001 Complete Horak IG The influence of season and frequency of burning on the abundance of free-living ixodid ticks on the vegetation of the experimental burn plots in the Kruger National Park To compare the abundance and species composition of free-living ixodid ticks on burned and unburned plots. 31-12-2001 Complete Horak RM Scientific evaluation of traditional use of scarce medicinal plants occurring in the Kruger National Park aimed at developing and commercializing new plant-based drugs To create collaboration between the Bioprospecting Consortium and South African National Parks. 31-05-2003 Complete Current Project: KNP Scientific Services [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 22 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Hrabar H Elephants and mopane caterpillars: Interactions through a shared resource To test the hypothesis that mopane caterpillars (Imbrasia belina) and African elephants (Loxodonta africana) interact through their shared resource base by influencing the regrowth of mopane (Colophospermum mopane). 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Innis SA Water use in trees across a riparian upland gradient in a semi arid savanna landscape To provide quantitative information about the reliance of riparian trees on river water, groundwater and soil water. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Inward D Global Soil Macrofauna Diversity and Ecosystem Function: Baseline Data from South Africa This project’s aim is to survey the soil macrofauna community in the Kruger National Park as part of the global soil macrofauna sampling programme. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Jackson CR Habitat preferences, home range and general biology of the critically endangered Juliana's golden mole (Neamblysomus julianae) in Kruger National Park To determine physical, chemical and biological correlates of habitat variables associated with the presence of Juliana's golden mole. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 23 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Jacob SM Biogeochemistry, herbivory and plant productivity in riparian ecotones and associated savanna upland ecosystems To test the hypothesis that nutrient availability increases with decreasing distance to the river. 31-12-2006 Current Jacob SM Nitrogen fixation in southern African savanna ecosystems: a stable isotope approach to gain baseline data To determine the ability of selected leguminous and non-leguminous trees growing on granite and basalt and in the upland and the riparian ecotone to fix atmospheric nitrogen. 31-12-2006 Current Jacobs DS The evolution of echolocation in the insectivorous bat family rhinolophidae High frequency echolocation calls used by species in the rhinolophidae family has evolved in response to moth hearing. 31-12-2002 Complete [email protected] Joubert RE Filling gaps in vegetation data south of the Sabie River in the Kruger National Park To process the floristic data and interpret the vegetation types by means of the environmental data collected. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Keet DF The impact of tuberculosis caused by Mycobacterium bovis on lions in the Kruger National Park To monitor the impact of Mycobacterium bovis on lion population. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 24 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Kemp LV The fourth wild dog and the second cheetah photographic census in the Kruger National Park and neighbouring reserves The fourth wild dog and the second cheetah photographic censuses in the Kruger National Park and reserves. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Kennedy AD Stability and resilience of grasslands to drought and ecosystem management impacts To establish the ability of mixed species grassland to maintain, withstand or recover from drought impacts. 31-01-2000 Complete [email protected] Kennedy AD Vegetation heterogeneity change over broad space and time scales in the Kruger National Park A heterogeneous landscape within Kruger National Park will help to provide maximum species richness. 30-09-2003 Complete Khomo L Linking physical boundaries and vegetation patterns to the Phugwane River drainage network in the northern Kruger National Park Linking vegetation pattern with the physical structure of the Phugwane river landscape. 31-12-2002 Complete Landscape evolution and soil development along a climate gradient in the Western Kruger National Park The first stage of the research is to resolve the landscape into a series of watersheds along the north-south axis of the park. The second objective of the study is to validate our predictive model by measuring a suite of soil properties across the spectrum. 31-12-2006 Current Khomo L Current Project: KNP Scientific Services [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 25 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Knapp A The role of megaherbivore behavior in driving fire-grazing interactions and grassland community structure: “Comparing processes across continents” To quantify, in directly comparable ways, ecosystem and community responses to fire and grazing in savanna grasslands of SA and NA, and to identify those ecological processes that are similar (convergent), despite potential contingent factors of differing evolutionary history, herbivore diversity and soil fertility. 31-12-2010 Current [email protected] Kroger R Implications of landscape heterogeneity for roan antelope conservation on the Northern plains of Kruger National Park: Vlei/upland boundary characteristics To distinguish the vlei boundary position and characteristics, pattern of roan grazing and how selective feeding enhances patchiness across the vlei boundary. 31-12-2000 Complete [email protected] Kryger P Penetration of the Cape honeybee into the wild African honeybee population of the Kruger National Park To determine if Cape honeybees are found in the wild honeybee population of the Kruger National Park. 28-07-2000 Complete [email protected] Kshatriya M Changes in herbivore community structure, population distribution and abundance as explained by rainfall and a variety of habitat parameters To analyze and model herbivore population and community dynamics of major ungulate species from 1980 to 1993. 31-12-2000 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 26 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Kutsch W Analyses of the carbon balance of a savanna ecosystem in Skukuza, South Africa To analyse the influence of climatic factors on the regulation of carbon dioxide, water vapour and sensible heat fluxes between savanna ecosystems and the atmosphere. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Landmann T Revised conditions of approval pertaining to the previously approved project title: A case study of Skukuza: Estimating biophysical properties of fires using new EOS-MODIS satellite data in the context of SAFARI 2000 To quantify the amount of biomass destroyed by fire, thereby establishing the relationship between fire thermal properties, the rate of biomass consumption and the emissions of aerosols and trace gases. 31-01-2004 Complete [email protected] Landmann T A Geographic information system (GIS) on fuel biomass derived from validated fuel models To validate and cross calibrate a new point spread regional fuel modelbased on continuous rainfall efficiency algorithms with a satellite based 250-meter synoptically collected fuel information. 30-09-2003 Complete Langbauer W The effects of translocation of African elephant vocal and social behaviour To study the effects of translocation on a breeding herd of elephants. 31-12-2006 Current Current Project: KNP Scientific Services [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 27 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Leroy MR Changes in vegetation composition on the Sabie river in the Kruger National Park after the February 2000 flood To determine the changes in vegetation composition (both native and alien) on the Sabie river after the 2000 floods. 01-09-2003 Complete [email protected] Leslie BJ Migration and habitat selection of Luvuvhu river tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) population in the Kruger National Park To develop an understanding of migration and movement of tigerfish and the environmental cues involved in the regulation of this behaviour in the Luvuvhu river. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Leslie BJ A study of the habitat requirements and movements of Large Scale Yellow fish, Labeobarbus marequensis, in the Crocodile River System in the Kruger National Park, to contribute towards management guidelines, using telemetry The main aim of this project is to contribute towards developing a more comprehensive understanding of the ecological aspects of the Large Scale Yellow Fish. 31-12-2005 Current Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 28 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address A scaled perspective of the context, structure and dynamics of riparian/savanna boundary vegetation patch mosaics To develop a sound understanding of the spatial and temporal dynamics of vegetation patch mosaics in a manner which contributes to both the theory of landscape ecology and vegetation/landscape mosaic management within the Kruger Park. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Development of a regreening index for monitoring vegetation regrowth after fires To classify vegetation towards regrowth state, linking phytomass accumulation, vegetation structure and carrying capacity and development of a remote sensing based regreening index. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] .ac.be Loader N High resolution stable dendroclimatology of the African boabab To reconstruct past environmental change for the sub-Saharan region of Africa using carbon isotope analysis of Adansonia digitata. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Lombard PJL Long-term effects of fire frequency and season of burning on the Colophospermum mopane shrubveld of the Kruger National Park To conduct a full survey of the vegetation on each of the Mopani plots in a way that will be comparable to the baseline data. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Levick S Lhermitte S Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 29 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Lorentz SA The influence of catena soil water dynamics on the vegetation patch structure in the Northern Plains To establish a groundwater/soil moisture monitoring system in the northern plains where vegetation patch structure is evident. 31-12-2001 Complete [email protected] MacFadyen DN A comparative study of rodent and shrew diversity and abundance in and outside the Nwashitshumbe enclosure site in the Kruger National Park To investigate the possible role of rodents and shrews play as bio-indicators for habitat destruction. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Mackenzie JA Regeneration of riparian vegetation on the Sabie river in the Kruger National Park To establish whether seedlings of riparian species differentially utilize geomorphic sites during regeneration processes. 31-12-2002 Complete The distribution of Pycnia silvia To broaden the knowledge base of the distribution of Pycnia sylvia for the effective conservation and management of this species. 30-12-2003 Complete [email protected] An analysis of the impact of elephants on woody vegetation in the research exclosures Large number of elephants cause severe damage to woody vegetation leading to negative habitat transformation. Therefore elephant numbers should be controlled so that they do not exceed the carrying capacity of the area in which they occur. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Malherbe C Mamphweli S Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 30 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Mare L Isolation of potential probiotic bacteria from the intestinal tract of Hyenas The purpose of the project is to isolate potential probiotic bacteria from various sources including the intestinal tract of hyenas. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Maree S A systematic review of the Chrysochloridae based on molecular data with emphasis on the population genetics, intraspecific phylogeography in an endemic, insectivorous, subterranean golden mole species of South Africa, Neamblysomus julianae To determine the intergeneric and interspecific phylogenetic relationships within the family: Chrysochloridae based on sequences from the cytochrome b, 16S rRNA and 12S rRNA mitochondrial genes and a suite of nuclear genes. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Margules CR Using the grasect method to establish a prototype network of field sites for monitoring the biodiversity of the NBP To design a network of monitoring points that can be used for long term monitoring of biodiversity on the extended northern plains. 30-06-2003 Complete [email protected] Development of habitat suitability map and model for rare antelope in the northern Kruger National Park To develop a habitat suitability map/derived models for rare antelope in the northern Kruger National Park, according to specifications by utilizing existing and acquired relevant data layers and expert knowledge. 31-08-2001 Complete [email protected] Mathys L Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 31 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Spatial analysis and modelling of the dynamics of rare ungulate species withing the Kruger National Park To develop a population viability model for more ungulate species incorporating population fragmentation, habitat deterioration and predation. 31-03-2001 Complete [email protected] Meskell L It's mine, It's yours: Archaeology and Cultural heritage in the park This project examines the very processes of community participation and educational outreach and ultimately, the senior researcher will also act as an advisor on heritage issues when called upon. 31-12-2009 Current [email protected] Meskell L Documentation, visualization and interpretation of archaeological sites in Kruger National Park: The Thulamela Case Study To document, present and interpret targeted archaeological and cultural heritage of Kruger National Park. 31-12-2009 Current Meyer V Distribution, density and biomass of moundbuilding termites in the northern Kruger National Park To determine intracolonial demography, biomass, food consumption and genetic relatedness of M. natalensis (Hav.). 31-12-2003 Complete McLoughlin C Current Project: KNP Scientific Services [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 32 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Miller SJ Human Habitation preKruger National Park: Overview of a Social History North of the Shingwedzi, Woodlands and Shangoni Ranger Sections. The purpose is to describe a sense of the social history of the area under investigation and provide comment on the implications of this towards a more inclusive tourism package for the KNP. 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] Miller SN Land Use Classification and Watershed Modeling of the Luvuvhu and Shingwedzi River Watersheds To provide spatially explicit information derived from remote sensing and GIS analysis to Kruger National Park. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Mills A The effect of fire on soil organic matter and nutrient distribution in the Kruger National Park burn plots: Implications of system recovery from disturbance To analyze selected chemical, physical and biological soil properties, comparing these to foliar nutrient concentrations on the plots. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Pack dynamics and movement patterns of wild dogs in the Kruger National Park To obtain a better understanding of the manner in which the wild dog population fluctuates and is regulated by documenting changes in pack composition and reproductive success. On going [email protected] Mills MGL Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 33 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Morar D The development of an Interferon-Gamma (IFNg) assay for the diagnosis of tuberculosis in rhinoceros This project aims to develop an assay that will effectively solve the diagnosis of BTB and provide the solution to a rapid test for the diagnosis of TB in live rhinos. 31-12-2004 Complete Muller WJ To identify similarities and differences between the rivers of the Kruger National Park, towards the design and testing of a classification framework to aid management of the Kruger National Park rivers by contributing to effective monitoring To identify similarities and differences between the rivers of the KNP, towards the design and testing of a classification framework to aid management by contributing to effective monitoring of the Kruger National Park rivers. 31-12-2001 Complete Hyperspectral remote sensing of pasture quality and quantity To establish the spatial variation in the quality and quantity of savanna grass and investigate how this variation is related to biophysical factors. 30-04-2004 Complete [email protected] Predicting and monitoring of ecosystem disturbance by fire To develop techniques for monitoring vegetation growth so as to map fuel type, load and status (moisture content) for fires. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] .be Mutanga O Nackaerts K Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 34 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Nemaheni TI Development of cultural resources management plan for Thulamela heritage sites To effectively manage the site as an entity, consistent with its natural and cultural heritage values and significance. 31-01-2003 Complete [email protected] Newenham J The development of monitoring methods for the ecological reserve (quantity) for rivers (also known as Instream Flow Requirements, IFR's) To develop and test monitoring methods that will check that the recommended ecological flows are being delivered to the different reaches of the Sabie and Luvuvhu rivers. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Nortje G The impacts of off-road driving and other concessionaire activities on physical soil degradation To quantify the impacts of off-road driving and other concessionaire activities on soils, soil erosion and soil compaction. To investigate different ways of quantifying impacts (e.g. satellite imagery, aerial photography, ground truthing data, off-road v 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] O'Brien O A survey of the composting fungi a mopani landscape and the effect of the different fire regimes on their species composition The main aim of this project is to determine the effect of different fire regimes on the diversity of composting fungi present in plant litter and soil fungi under mopani trees. 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 35 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Oelofse JA A comparative study of vegetation dynamics within two management units on the Tsende flats following drought and drought with fire To record and compare the survival and regeneration of the grass sward in a management block exposed to extensive drought combined with fire, to that of a directly adjoining management block exposed to drought only. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Ogutu JO The population dynamics of kruger park ungulates in relation to climatic variability To characterise, compare and contrast demographic patterns across environmental contexts and herbivore types. 30-09-2001 Complete [email protected] O'Keeffe JH Rule based modelling of fish facilitating strategic adaptive management of the Kruger National Park rivers through model development and technology transfer To enhance aquatic ecosystem management through the further development and transfer to management of qualitative rule-based models (QRBM) engaging both biotic and abiotic research, to strengthen the decision support system of the KNP rivers research programme. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] O'Neill FH The plasma lipids, lipoproteins and plant sterols of South Africa It is generally recognized that human lipoprotein metabolism is very different from that in other animals. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 36 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Long-term changes of woody vegetation composition and structure in response to fire frequency and season in the Lowveld sour bushveld savanna of the Kruger National Park Hot fire is expected to have a greater effect on the woody plant community's physiognomy than a cool fire. The season of fire is also envisioned to have an effect on the adult tree mortality. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Otte D Overview and review of South African Orthoptera To provide biologists in South Africa with a tool which they can use to identify all known Orthoptera (jumping insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, bush crickets, cave crickets etc). 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] Panagos MD The influence of different precipitation levels on the germination of grass species in a lowveld savanna To determine whether there is a difference in herbaceous plant species germinating from four different soil types at two different watering regimes. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] The measurement of herbaceous layer dynamics of three Lowveld savanna types To determine which vegetation monitoring technique/s best reflect reality in terms of the herbaceous layer species composition and density at three sites. 31-12-2006 Current O'Regan SP Panagos MD Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 37 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status Panagos MD Refinement of grazing capacity determination using three standard field procedures To conduct an assessment of the disc pasture meter, the plant number scale and the key species method to determine their practical usefulness in determining grazing capacity. 31-12-2005 Current Parr CL Study to investigate the effects of burning on ant (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) diversity To investigate the longterm effects of burning on ant diversity in two savanna habitats. 31-12-2003 Complete Parr CL Ant diversity and distribution in KNP: developing bioindicators To sample ants from southern habitats of KNP thus contributing to the comprehensive data collected previously and enable better understanding of the biogeography of the ants of KNP. 31-12-2005 Current Parsons M Patterns of post-flood riparian vegetation response in the Sabie River To examine the influence of hydrology, riverscape heterogeneity and channel morphology on post-flood vegetation response. 31-12-2006 Current Parsons M Post flood response of the Sabie River, 20002003: Re-survey of riparian vegetation transects To examine the response of the Sabie river to the 2000 flood, as it stands 3 years after the event. 30-06-2004 Complete Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] [email protected] a Edited: March 2005 Page 38 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Towards a predictive understanding of savanna ecosystem dynamics in the Eastern Transvaal Lowveld To investigate the potential of the natural resources of the Lowveld to contribute to the economy and development of the region in harmony with social and environmental needs. Penzhorn BL Coccidia of buffalo in the Kruger National Park To determine if species of coccidia that occur in buffalo of the Kruger National Park are the same as those infecting domestic cattle and to identify previously undescribed species. Pettit N The function of woody debris and herbivory in succession of the riparian vegetation community after a largescale flood in the Kruger National Park To determine the role of the woody debris piles deposited during the floods in regeneration of the riparian vegetation community. Pienaar DJ Habitat selection and monitoring of black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) in the Kruger National Park To monitor the black rhino population. Pollard IH An Investigation into the use of Bat Houses as a method of bat control in the Letaba Rest Camp, Kruger National Park To find a viable economic and ecological solution for the problem of bats living within the tourist facilities of the Letaba Rest Camp. Peel MJS Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Finish date Project status E-mail address On going [email protected] 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] 30-12-2006 Current [email protected] On going [email protected] Current [email protected] 31-12-2005 Edited: March 2005 Page 39 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Pollard S Towards catchment water security through linking water and livelihoods: Contributions towards constructing a socioecological system (SES) of the Sand River Catchment To pilot the Socioecological Systems approach in understanding the relationship between catchment water security and livelihoods. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Prins HHT TEMBO, the elephant movements and bioeconomic optimality program (South Africa) To develop and optimize management techniques that can be used by park managers. 31-12-2009 Current [email protected] Prinsloo CE The Phabeni gate project in the Kruger National Park: A case study of community based conservation To investigate the process for the establishment of the Phabeni gate in the Kruger National Park as an example of a communitybased conservation project. 31-12-2007 Current [email protected] Radcliffe R In situ ultrasonographic reproductive evaluation of the female black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) and white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) in South Africa To undertake opportunistic ultrasonographic reproductive examination of female white and black rhinos at time of immobilisation. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 40 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives A quantification of sustainable utilisation of the woody community of the savanna vegetation type as a fuel, crafts and construction timber source - Mpumalanga, South Africa To compare the woody plants within the two areas in terms of species diversity, density, size structure class and biomass to determine the impact that the harvesting of fuel wood within the communal area has had upon the woody plants. 31-12-2003 Complete Rautenbach IL The occurrence, distribution, taxonomy and general biology of the small mammal fauna of the Kruger National Park To document the occurrence, distribution and general biology of small mammal species as well as to conduct research on the taxonomy and systematic relationships of selected taxa on a continuous basis. 31-12-1999 Complete Rautenbach IL The ecology, behaviour and population dynamics of micro chiropteran bats in the Kruger National Park To enhance understanding of all facets of the biology of a guild of 32 species of bats co-existing in the Pafuri area. 31-12-2001 Complete Redfern J Large scale spatial and temporal heterogeneity in herbivore distributions: The effect of vegetation and water availability in an African savanna ecosystem To develop and test hypothesis that explain temporal and spatial heterogeneity in herbivore distributions as a function of vegetation indicators, surface water availability and interspecific interactions. 30-06-2003 Complete Rademan LA Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 41 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Reinhardt CF Interference potential of the alien invasive plant Parthenium hysterophorus with indigenous plant species in the Kruger National Park To determine the allelopathic potential of parthenium. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Rogers P Wildlife conservation governance in eastern and southern Africa: A comparative study of the Serengeti-Mara and Gaza-KrugerGonarezhou Differences in conservation policy and practise can be explained by the relative strength and influence of the international and domestic sectors in the countries of two regions. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Development of a remote sensing based index for monitoring vegetation structure parameters To improve and develop high spatial resolution earth observation based parameters develop a remote sensing based indicator for monitoring parameters describing vegetation structure. 30-09-2004 Complete [email protected] ven.ac.be Catastrophic stripping in the Olifants River, Kruger National Park To determine the role of vegetation on geomorphological change in the stripping and recovery processes in the Olifants river, and assess the implications of such change for the management of structural biodiversity. 31-12-2001 Complete [email protected] Rommens R Rountree MW Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 42 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Roux F Study to improve the tigerfish abundance and migrations in the lower Komati River To establish the distribution range and abundance of tigerfish in lower Komati river. 31-12-2003 Complete Roux F Monitoring of fishways in the Kruger National Park rivers (Crocodile river) in order to determine their functionality To test the functionality of the fishways, i.e. movement through the fishway. 31-12-2003 Complete Roux J A study of fungal pathogens on native tree species in the Kruger National Park The aim of this proposed project is to identify tree pathogens and potential tree pathogens in the Kruger National Park. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Ryan SJ A GIS model of bovine tuberculosis in the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) population of the Kruger National Park, South Africa To elucidate the spatial characteristics of the BTB epidemic through a ruledriven cell based model comprising three main modelling components. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Salvesen ED An investigation on the role of herbivory on the experiment burning plots in three vegetation types of the Kruger National Park The effects of grazing on the relatively small plots are confounding the fire effects to such a degree that it jeopardises the meaning of the results. 31-10-1999 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 43 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives The demography of a culled sample of African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in the Kruger National Park with particular emphasis on correlating age with tooth wear and habitat To age buffalo with tooth cementum rings and to compare tooth cementum rings (age) with the degree of tooth wear in buffalo from different soil types. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Schmidt S A morphological study of the placenta of the African buffalo To determine whether there are structural differences between the placenta of the African buffalo and that of the domestic cow. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Scholes MC Fire and climate change feedback in Southern Africa To quantify charcoal deposits associated with long-term fire regimes. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Scholtz CH Dung beetle richness, dung preference and assemblage structure in the Kruger National Park, South Africa To assess the diversity of dung scarabs in the Kruger National Park 31-12-2008 Current [email protected] Proposed principles and criteria for sustainable wilderness management in the Kruger National Park To evaluate a broad range of published and other wilderness principles and design a specific set of wilderness management principles which are of direct relevance for the sustainable management of wilderness areas in the Kruger National Park. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Sanson G Scott P Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 44 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Using Geographical information systems and remote sensing to assess the trampling and grazing impact of herbivores on vegetation in the vicinity of artificial water sources in the Northern Kruger National Park, South Africa The influence that artificial water sources have on the surrounding vegetation. 31-12-2003 Complete The impact of artificial waterholes on the nutrient dynamics and vegetation in the northern Kruger National Park, South Africa To investigate long-term vegetation change around waterholes (using Landsat imagery from 1978, 1989 and 2000) and to investigate seasonal vegetation dynamics around waterholes using Landsat imagery acquired at different phenological stages of 2000/2001. 31-12-2006 Current Smith M Determination of rodents in the Nkuhlu exclosure: A baseline survey The diversity and abundance of the rodent population inside the exclosure is not different to the diversity ad abundance of the rodent population outside of the exclosure. 31-05-2003 Complete Smith M Habitat features that determine the presence of rodents along a catena To understand what environmental attributes affect rodent distribution. 31-12-2005 Current Smit IPJ Smit IPJ Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 45 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Spenceley AF Sustainable tourism in and around the proposed Kruger/ Banhine-Zinave/ Gonarezhou Transfrontier Conservation area To generate a process that allows the evaluation of key factors that indicate environmentally, culturally and economically sustainable nature-based tourism within the Lowveld savanna habitats of southern African parks. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Sponheimer M Using isotopic evidence of large mammal nutritional ecology to track vegetation change through time To study vegetation changes in the Kruger National Park using stable isotope analysis of large bodied mammals. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Global climate change and primary production: The effect of interrainfall interval on grass growth To determine the effects of the length of inter-rainfall intervals on the productivity and composition of local grass communities, to compare these effects with those shown by grass communities of North America. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Modelling buffalo-lion interactions and implications for the spread of bovine tuberculosis in the Kruger National Park To determine how the interactions between lion and African buffalo impact on the spread of BTB in Kruger National Park. To consider the effects of BTB on male lion dynamics, even if the prevalence of BTB in the southern buffalo herds is reduced. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Swemmer AM Tambling CJ Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 46 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Proposed pilot study to test telemetry innovations, with applications for further studies on lion (Panthera leo)-buffalo (Syncerus caffer)-bovine tuberculosis (BTB) interactions in Kruger National Park The primary objective is to test telemetry technology that could assist in the investigation of species interactions (in particular predator-prey dynamics). 31-12-2005 Current Teren G Salvadora australis as an ecosystem engineer of alluvial sodic sites in the Northern Kruger National Park To determine the processes between the edaphic pattern in these sodic sites; the vegetation response through the halophyte Salvadora australis; the animal response in terms of herbivory; and the eventual feedback to the soil and vegetation. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Turner AMS Harvesting, rearing and reintroduction of the second-hatched chicks of the Southern ground hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri) To apply skills and knowledge to assist further re-introduction of Ground Hornbills into other parts of their historical range 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Turner RL Research on Makuleke region of the Kruger National Park The role of the state on communal management of protected areas in southern Africa. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Tambling CJ Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 47 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status Van Aarde RJ Population dynamics of the Cape buffalo in the Kruger National Park To determine the effect of culling of buffalo population on population variation, i.e. the rate of increase or decrease. 31-12-2001 Complete Van Aarde RJ Rapid assessment of the population demography of elephants in the Kruger National Park To obtain age specific population parameters from which to derive population statistics independently from population counts. 31-12-2006 Current Van Aarde RJ Steriodogenic activity of the ovary and placenta of the African elephant Aims at confirming the presence of progesterone in the corpus luteum of culled mammals. Also aims at examining the presence of other gestagens in the corpus luteum and the placenta and at examining the steriodogenic potential placental tissue. Van der Bank FH Genetic variation within and differentiation between representatives of the tortoise family Testudinidae and the terrapin family Pelomedusidae in the Kruger National Park To determine if there is sufficient variation and differentiation within and between G. pardalis populations using allozyme studies. Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] On going 31-01-2003 Complete [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 48 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Van der Merwe P A survey of some peptide hormones in the hypophysis of impala (Aepyceros melampus): An immunocytochemical and radioimmunoassay study To demonstrate stored peptide in endocrine cells using immunocytochemical methods. 31-12-2003 Complete Van der Velde K Regeneration ecology and changes in the population structure of Ficus sycomorus L., in response to a major flood along the Sabie river, Kruger National Park To determine the effects of the flood on the regeneration of F. sycomorus. 30-09-2000 Complete Van der Velde K The population structure and dynamics of Ficus sycomorus, along the Sabie river within the Kruger National Park To determine the change in the population structure of Ficus sycomorus relative to the pre-flood structure and to develop an understanding of the regeneration ecology of this species. 31-12-2001 Complete Van der Waal BCW Conservation status and ecological importance of the Limpopo river pans in the Kruger National Park 31-12-2003 Complete Van der Walt JL Ecological aspects and related behaviour of Lichtenstein's hartebeest (Sigmoceros lichtensteinii) in the Kruger National Park 31-12-2001 Complete Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 49 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Van Jaarsveld EJ Cremnophilous succulent plants of southern Africa: Diversity structure and adaptations To gain a better understanding into the diversity, distribution, habitat, substrate, centres of diversity, life forms, relationships with closely related non-cremnophilous plants, adaptive strategies and convergent trends with cremnophytes of succulent. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] Van Rensburg DJ Assessing and monitoring local scale impacts of invasive alien plant species n invertebrate assemblages in the Kruger National Park, South Africa To investigate the degree of change in invertebrate assemblages as a result of alien plant species invasion in KNP. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] a Van Rooi C Biological control of Parthenium hysterophorus, prerelease studies. The goal of this research is therefore to compile a baseline database on Parthenium hysterophorus’ growth, biomass, seed rain and population dynamics in South Africa. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Van Schalkwyk OL Bone density and calcium and phosphorus content of the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) skeleton To determine if the giraffe's skeleton differs in calcium and phosphorus content and bone density from other ruminants. 31-12-2004 Complete [email protected] Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address Edited: March 2005 Page 50 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status E-mail address Van Vollenhoven AJ A survey of the remains of some of the outputs of the Steinacker's horse military unit in the Kruger National Park To show a connection between historical information and the archaeological evidence with regard to Steinaecker's House. 30-04-2003 Complete [email protected] Van Vuuren D The identification of influentials: validation of the questionnaire To validate the scale developed by the Institute fur Demoscopie, Allensbach, Germany for South African conditions. 31-12-2005 Current [email protected] Van Vuuren M Isolation, molecular characterisation and application to diagnostic assays of feline lentiviruses from lions (Panthera leo) in the Kruger National Park To isolate and characterize FIV in lions from the Kruger National Park. 31-12-2003 Complete [email protected] An autecological study of certain red data list of plants in the far northern Kruger National Park To investigate about 16 Red taxa and medicinal plant taxa in order to determine and document locality, habitat characteristics and associated woody plants, abundance, size class distribution and seed production, impact-type amount and severity. 30-04-2001 Complete [email protected] Van't Foort W Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Edited: March 2005 Page 51 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Verbesselt J Fire risk assessment by fuel status assessment using low resolution earth observation Improve and develop new low spatial resolution EO based parameters towards classification of fuel amount and monitoring of fuel status. Vosloo W The role of clovenhoofed animals in the epidemiology of footand-mouth disease To implement measures to prevent the escape of footand-mouth disease virus to adjacent domestic animal populations. Watters B A study of the characteristics of Nothobranchius fish habitats in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park and the geological factors controlling their distribution To study the characteristics of Nothobranchius fish habitats in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park with an emphasis on the geological characteristics of the habitat substrates and the geomorphological factors controlling their distribution. Welgemoed DJ n Studie van bloedsamestelling van soogdiere Wessels K Assessing the relationship between Vegetation Condition Assessment (VCA) biomass estimates in Kruger National Park with growth season integrated NDVI of 1km AVHRR data Current Project: KNP Scientific Services Finish date Project status E-mail address Complete [email protected] .be On going [email protected] 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] To use pathological information to classify mammals taxanomically. 31-12-2003 Complete The main objective of the proposed research is to test the correlation between VCA biomass estimates and growth season sum of 1km AVHRR NDVI satellite data (hereafter referred to as ΣNDVI). 31-12-2004 Complete 31-12-2004 [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 52 of 54 Senior Researcher Title of Project Objectives Finish date Project status Whyte IJ Aspects of the ecology of buffalo (Syncerus caffer) relevant to the management of the Kruger National Park population To study and monitor the buffalo population On going Whyte IJ Aspects of the ecology of elephant (Loxodonta africana) relevant to the management of the Kruger National Park population To monitor by means of radio telemetry, the movements of various selected clans in the population, to determine clan home ranges and to assess the degree of clan cohesion. On going Whyte IJ Censusing and monitoring the herbivorous large mammal population of the Kruger National Park using aerial transects surveys (ALT's) To count megaherbivores. On going Whyte IJ The current living tuskers To document large living tuskers. On going Whyte IJ Hippopotamus population monitoring in the Kruger National Park To count hippopotamus population. On going Whyte NG Feeding behaviour of elephants and food availability in the central district of the Kruger National Park To estimate the influence of increasing elephant densities on the potential vegetation standing crop on two of the landscapes in the central district of the Kruger National Park. Current Project: KNP Scientific Services 31-07-2000 Complete E-mail address [email protected] [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 53 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Wilson B Population dynamics and the effects of herbivory and fire on the regeneration ecology of Acacia nigrescens and Dichrostachys cinerea in the Kruger National Park, South Africa To contribute to a better understanding of savanna woodland regeneration dynamics, through an investigation of the effects of herbivory and fire on the population dynamics and regeneration ecology of these tree species. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Winkelmann J Movements and feeding behavior of Epauletted fruit bats and their impact on the regeneration of fig trees To locate and monitor roosts of epauletted fruit bats; and to determine home range, and spatiotemporal patterns of foraging by radio-collared bats. 31-12-2006 Current [email protected] Woghiren AJ Nitrogen characterisation of the savanna flux site at Skukuza, Kruger National Park To develop models for nitrogen cycling, one for the broad-leafed (Combretum) and for the fine-leafed (Acacia) savanna. 30-04-2001 Complete Wolmarans CT Investigating the Kruger National Park mollusk diversity, including the migration of current invader snail species and identification of new ones To identify new invaders, investigate the migration of those already in the Park and to get an idea whether the quality of the rivers is deteriorating by comparing the mollusk diversity with our previously found data. 31-12-2005 Current Current Project: KNP Scientific Services E-mail address [email protected] Edited: March 2005 Page 54 of 54 Senior Researcher Finish date Project status Title of Project Objectives Wolmarans CT A study on the freshwater snail diversity currently present in dams and rivers which were dry during the 1995 survey To establish the snail diversity currently present in habitats that were dry during the 1995 survey, which could be now suitable for repopulation by freshwater snails due to recent rains. Zambatis N Monitoring the climate in the Kruger National Park To monitor the KNP climate daily according to the Weather Bureau standards. On going Zambatis N Field layer dynamics of the Kruger National Park To monitor grass biomass throughout the KNP. On going Zambatis N Determinants of grass species composition and phytomass production in the Kruger National Park Zituta MN Mayfly communities, water quality, SASS 5 method Current Project: KNP Scientific Services To identify and describe mayfly communities found in the selected river sites, also identify Instream Flow Requirement (IFR) and habitat preference of mayflies. 31-12-2001 E-mail address Complete 31-12-2003 Complete 30-12-2006 Current [email protected] [email protected] Edited: March 2005