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Open Access
Animal taxa contrast in their scale-dependent responses to land use change in rural Africa
(2018-05-08) Foord, Stefan Hendrik; Swanepoel, Lourens Hendrik; Evans, Steven Wiiliams; Schoeman, Colin Stephan; Erasmus, Barend Frederik N.; Schoeman, M. Corrie; Keith, Martin; Smith, Alain; Mauda, Evans Vusani; Maree, Naudene; Nembudani, Nkhumeleni; Dippenaar-Schoeman, Anna Sophia; Munyai, Thinandavha Caswell; Taylor, Peter John
Human-dominated landscapes comprise the bulk of the world's terrestrial surface and Africa is predicted to experience the largest relative increase over the next century. A multi-scale approach is required to identify processes that maintain diversity in these landscapes. Here we identify scales at which animal diversity responds by partitioning regional diversity in a rural African agro-ecosystem between one temporal and four spatial scales. Human land use practices are the main driver of diversity in all seven animal assemblages considered, with medium sized mammals and birds most affected. Even the least affected taxa, bats and non-volant small mammals (rodents), responded with increased abundance in settlements and agricultural sites respectively. Regional turnover was important to invertebrate taxa and their response to human land use was intermediate between that of the vertebrate extremes. Local scale (< 300 m) heterogeneity was the next most important level for all taxa, highlighting the importance of fine scale processes for the maintenance of biodiversity. Identifying the triggers of these changes within the context of functional landscapes would provide the context for the long-term sustainability of these rapidly changing landscapes
Open Access
Comparative in vitro cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbiological activities of two indigenous Venda medicinal plants
(BioMed Central, 2016 December 09) Sigidi, M. T.; Anokwuru, C. P.; Zininga, T.; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Shonhai, A.; Ramaite, I. D. I.; Traore, A. N.; Potgieter, N.
Background: The Vhembe region of the Limpopo province has a rich tradition of medicinal plants use. Traditionally, boiled roots of Ziziphus mucronata are used in the treatment of boils, general swelling and other skin infections. A combination of leaf paste and root infusion treats measles, dysentery, chest complains, and gland swelling. Pterocarpus angolensis is famous for the treatment of menorrhagia, infertility in women, wounds and pain management. The purpose of the present study was to compare the cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory potential and anti-microbial activities of Ziziphus mucronata and Pterocarpus angolensis from the Vhembe region. Method: U937, MeWo, Vero and RAW 264.7 cells were treated to various concentrations (50, 100, or 125 or 250 μg/ml depending on assays) of Ziziphus mucronata and Pterocarpus angolensis. Cytotoxicity assay was done using MTT; Antiinflammatory activity was assessed using NO production; Anti-bacterial activity was done using the Micro-Broth dilution method and Anti-mycobacteria activity was determined using the Alamar Blue Method while RT activity was measured by ELISA. Results: Cytotoxicity results showed that Pterocarpus was more toxic than Ziziphus as observed in the Vero and MeWo cells; however both displayed toxicity towards a Human cancer cell line. Both extracts did not inhibit nitrate production but induced significant increase in macrophage activation. The plant extracts have shown anti-tuberculosis activity at concentrations >500 μg/ml and there was moderation inhibition of HIV replication. Conclusions: The results obtained indicated that the extracts have pro-inflammatory properties, and the observed toxicity on malignant cell lines must be investigated further for promising anti-cancer drug therapy.
Open Access
Comparative population ecology of sclerocarya birrea (A. RICH.) HOCHST. Subspecies Caffra (SOND) in two rural villages of Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2018) Mocheki, Tebogo Alison; Ligavha-Mbelengwa, Maanda Hadzhi; Tshisikhawe, Milingoni Peter; Swelankomo, Nonkululeko; Tshivhandekano, Thivhilaeli Robert; Mokganya, Mokgaetji Georgina; Ramovha, Luvhimba Isaac; Masevhe, Ndivhaleni Anox
Sclerocarya birrea (A Rich.) Hochst. subspecies caffra (Sond) is a plant species belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. In South Africa, it is dominant in the Baphalaborwa area in the Limpopo Province. Throughout its distribution range, S. birrea is a keystone species that is highly utilized by herbivores and people. Understanding the utilization pattern assist in determing if the population is not negatively affected. The aim of this study was therefore to compare the distribution patterns and population status of S. birrea in Ga-Makhushane and Tshivhongweni villages in the Limpopo Province. The study will investigate the influence of culture in utilization of S. birrea resources since the study area are made up of communities of people from different cultures. Nearest-neighbour method of sampling individuals within a population of plants was used to collect data on S. birrea populations which was analyzed using Analysis of Variance. It was found that the populations were regularly distributed meaning there is an antagonistic relationship of the species with the users in both villages, and there was also a significant difference in distribution patterns between the two villages. It was concluded that although S. birrea is regularly distributed in both villages, there are differences in terms of interplant distances, heights, stem circumferences and canopy covers. It means that the two culturally different communities have different preferences when they harvest resources form S. birrea species
Open Access
The complete mitochondrial genome of Africa's largest freshwater copepod, Lovenula raynerae
(2018-11-18) Jooste, Candice M.; Emani-Khoyi, Arsalan; Gan, Hang Ming; Wasserman, Ryan J.; Dalu, Tatenda
Lovenula raynerae is the largest known African freshwater copepod. To date, it has only been sampled from ephemeral freshwater ecosystems. This paper reports the complete mitochondrial genome of L. raynerae, which was found to be 14,365 bp long. Base composition of 33.5% base A, 19.3% base G, 34.6% base T, and 12.5% base C was found, with 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNAs, and 2 rRNAs. This paper contributes to an improved understanding of phylogenetic relationships in an important crustacean group
Open Access
The complete mitogenome of a South African cryptic species of tadpole shrimp within the Triops granarius (Lucas, 1864) species group
(Taylor & Francis, 2018-11-02) Gan, Han Ming; Wasserman, Ryan John; Dalu, Tatenda; Rogers, D, Christopher
The complete mitochondrial genome of a cryptic species of tadpole shrimp from South Africa (Accession Number: MG770893) was recovered by low coverage shotgun sequencing. The mitogenome consists of 15,216 bp with a GC content of 30.95%. COX1 sequence alignment indicates that this specimen is the most closely related to Triops granarius with a pairwise nucleotide identity of less than 90% (86.6%). Phylogenetic analysis using whole mitogenome dataset supports its affiliation to the genus Triops with moderate support for its relatively basal position within the clade.
Open Access
Detecting threats to Encephalartos transvenosus (Limpopo cycad0 in Limpopo province, South Africa through indigenous knowledge
(2016-08-09) Bamigboye, Samuel O.; Tshisikhawe, Peter M.; Taylor, Peter J.
Indigenous knowledge contains valuable information which is often essential to biodiversity and species conservation. The traditional knowledge of people in local communities can enhance conservation policies and planning and also reveal local perspectives in relation to endangered species. Cycads as a vascular plant group contain the highest percentage of threatened plant species, at global, regional, national and community levels. In this study we focused on Encephalartos transvenosus Stapf & Burtt Davy, a cycad species endemic to Limpopo province in South Africa. Despite every effort to conserve this highly endangered species the threats keep increasing and the population keep decreasing. Through indigenous knowledge, we discovered a location of this species not yet conserved within Vhembe district on the Soutpansberg mountain range in Limpopo province, South Africa. Practices such as bark harvesting, and uprooting of young seedlings were discovered at this population. All these practices noticed at this location are detrimental to in situ conservation of the cycads. This study hereby revealed that indigenous knowledge has a great role in cycads’ conservation. Through the local communities, factors that are threatening cycads existence can be determined and the local community can also be integrated in effective conservation plan that discourage illegal harvesting of cycads.
Open Access
The diet of an invasive crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus (Von Martens, 1868), in Lake Kariba, inferred using stomach content and stable isotope analyses
(Invasivenet, 2018-01-27) Marufu, Lighthouse T.; Dalu, Tatenda; Phiri, Crispen; Barson, Maxwell; Simango, Rutendo; Utete, Beaven; Nhiwatiwa, Tamuka
The diet of an invasive crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus (Von Martens 1868), in Lake Kariba, was investigated using stomach content analysis (SCA) and stable isotope analysis (SIA). The frequency of occurrence of macrophytes and detritus ranged between 63.6–97.1% and 20–45.5%, respectively, and the index of relative importance ranked these as the two most important food items across all size classes. Significant differences in the ranking of fish, macroinvertebrates and crayfish were found between size classes 29–37.9, 38–46.9 and 47–55.9 mm. Stomach content analysis showed 16% of crayfish stomachs were empty. Feeding intensity differed significantly between size classes and ranged from 3.46 to 5.21. Stable isotope analysis was done by comparing δ13C, δ15N and C/N ratios in crayfish muscle and potential dietary items in the lake. Macrophytes were the most dominant food item (57%), followed by macroinvertebrates (20%), then detritus, and finally fish and crayfish. Stable isotope analysis revealed that all crayfish size classes analysed were in the same trophic level. Nevertheless, while SCA showed high dietary overlap among all crayfish size classes (>65%), SIA showed that small crayfish (< 28.9mm) had limited overlap with large crayfish (> 56mm), with the former showing a higher proportion of macroinvertebrates in their diet. In Lake Kariba, C. quadricarinatus predominantly feeds on macrophytes, macroinvertebrates and detritus, which may bring about nutrient cycle alterations in the lake. Littoral habitat changes caused by the feeding characteristics of C. quadricarinatus might also lead to competition with, and eventual displacement of, some native littoral fishes in this lake
Open Access
The Dynamics on the Ecology of Pterocarpus angolensis DC
(2018-01) Sadiki, T. S.; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Potgieter, M. J.
Pterocarpus angolensis is a tree species that is extensively used for its medicinal bark and good quality wood in South Africa. Its demand has resulted in some local extinctions in distribution area, leaving very few viable populations in natural areas. The current study was looked at the status of a pristine population located in the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa. Data on population parameters such as basal stem circumferences, plant height, and crown health estimates were collected from 16 transects of 100 m x 5 m. Results showed a healthy population that displayed an inverse J-shaped curve as analysed from some of the parameters sampled. More individuals found within the 0-50 cm stem circumference size class is an indication of a population with a healthy base for recruitment. Most of trees were in the 6.1-8.0 m height class which is a sign of a population with a good number of individuals in fruits bearing stage. High levels of canopy damage are an area of concern, since it impacts on the vigour of the population. It is concluded that this is a healthy population of P. angolensis, which could serve as a source of propagules in re-forestation programmes. It is recommended that the population be closely monitored for any signs of human disturbance, which would negatively influence its health.
Open Access
Epidermal structure of stomata and trichomes of vachella tortilis (FORSSK.) galasso and banfi
(2017) Mashile, Shalom Pabalelo; Tshisikhawe, Milingoni Peter
Leaves of Vachellia tortilis were collected along the national road (N1) in Limpopo province, South Africa. Variations in the epidermal structure of stomata and presence of trichomes amongst V. tortilis in nine different stations selected along the study site were investigated. In this study leaves of V. tortilis were found to be hypostomatic. The epidermal cell revealed a polygonal structure only. Anticlinal walls were either straight or curved. Trichomes recorded showed a nonglandular unicellular conical shape. Stomata types observed were paracytic and anisocytic with single subsidiary cell. In comparison the frequency of epidermal cells was higher than that of guard cells. Stomatal index and frequencies of stomata and epidermal cells were also recorded and compared.
Open Access
Ethnobotanical Profile of Indigenous Tree Species Protected within Dryland Agricultural Farming System
(Research and Reviews, 2017-12-18) Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Malunga, G.
Conservation of biodiversity on dryland agricultural farms, forests, and protected areas is likely to backup future livelihood options. The main objective of this research was to investigate the ethnobotanical importance of indigenous trees protected within agricultural farming system of Mutale local municipality. Tree layer of indigenous species were recorded and classified into families, parts used and their utilization purposes. Twenty two agricultural fields were visited and nineteen species were recorded. The 19 species were classified into sixteen families with Fabaceae, Combretaceae, Capparaceae being the dominating families. Sclerecarya birrea belonging to Anacardiaceae family was the plant species which was well represented in the agricultural farming fields, occurring in 21 farms, followed by Adansonia digitata (19 farms) which belongs to Malvaceae family, and Boscia albitrunca (16 farms), Maerua angolensis (15 farms) which both belong to the Capparaceae family. Shade use category amongst tree species protected within agricultural fields was the dominant category followed by medicine, food, demarcation fence, fodder, and firewood. Protection of these indigenous trees within agricultural fields will go a long way towards conservation of declared protected and endangered species
Open Access
Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in treatment of ticks
(2014) Magwede, K.; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Luseba, D.; Bhat, R. T.
The documentation of traditional knowledge on medicinal use of plants has provided many important drugs that are used worldwide on a daily basis. Traditional remedies had been (and still are) the main source of livestock ailment treatments, especially in regions of poor resources of the Vhembe District, South Africa. In many rural areas of the Republic of South Africa, traditional medicine is sometimes the only available modern orthodox health care for managing both human and animal health. Much work remains to be done regarding the documentation of the existing ethnobotanical knowledge. In this work, we report an inventory list of ethnoveterinary, medicinal plants used in treatment of tick infested wounds. Sampling was made in the Vhembe District, Limpopo Province, South Africa through interview surveys. A list of 25 medicinal plants was compiled from 4 local municipalities within the District. Some plants were more frequently mentioned than others. Knowledge about the ethnoveterinary plant use differed between sex and age groups within the municipalities.
Open Access
An evaluation of additional uses of some wild edible fruit plants of the Vhembe District Municipality in the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2017-09-18) Mokganya, M. G.; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Swelankomo, N.; Tshivhandekano, T. R.; Ramovha, L. I.; Masevhe, N. A.; Ligavha-Mbelengwa, M. H.; Mocheki, T. A.
The current study documented and evaluated other uses of wild edible fruit plants in one of the district municipalities of South Africa. Data on indigenous uses of wild edible fruit plants collected through a series of semi-structured interviews with 160 informants is presented. Of the 92 wild edible fruit plant species belonging to 20 different plant families, 27 plant species were reported to have other uses. Other use categories mentioned during the interviews were food, medicinal, beverages, construction, firewood, cosmetic, dye and artifacts.
Open Access
An evaluation of the extent and threat of bark harvesting of medicinal plant species in the Venda Region, Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2012-11-11) Tshisikhawe, M. P.; van Rooyen, M. W.; Bhat, R. B.
The medicinal flora of the Venda region consists of a variety of species, which may potentially provide therapeutic agents to treat different diseases. Bark use for medicinal purposes has been reported for approximately 30% of the woody species (153 species) in the Venda region in southern Africa. However, only 58 plant species are commonly harvested for the medicinal properties in their bark and found in muthi shops in the region. These 58 species were scored for the possible threat of bark harvesting to the plant survival. Ethnobotanical studies indicate that the growing trade in indigenous medicinal plants in South Africa is posing a threat to the conservation and preservation of many plant species. Apart from pharmaceutical companies, trade in medicinal plants has become a way of making a living for some people. This study investigated the pattern of trade in medicinal plants by local markets in the Venda region, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Indications are that bark harvesting may threaten some of the plant species.
Open Access
The Exploration of Indigenous Knowledge on Management of Magonono in Enhancing the Production of Crops in Thulamela Municipality
(Adonis & Abbey Publishers, 2018-12) Nemakanga, R; Matshidze, P. E.; Jideani, A. I. O.; Tshisikhawe, P.
Many flowering and fruit bearing plants are attacked by Magonono which feed mainly on flowers, with almost all flowering plants coming under attack, including roses and hibiscus as well as the flowers of vegetables like sunflower, sorghum, sweet potatoes, mangoes, beans, apples, pumpkin, alfalfa, beet, potato and tomato. Rose blooms can be partially or completely destroyed. Magonono also feed on the blossoms and fruit of stone-fruit and citrus and the aerial parts of green beans, especially the flowers, again causing considerable damage. At times, they cause lesions on fruit such as peaches as well as tomatoes when they are ripening, and sometimes the complete fruit is eaten. High numbers of Magonono can easily destroy a crop or reduce yields. Magonono can also cause lesions to fruit making it unmarketable. Special attention should be given to crops during flowering stage because it determines and affects the yield of the crop. During reproductive stages, there are lots of insects that linger around the beans because they are attracted by the flowers. Categories of these insects are pollinators such as bees and pests that feed on these flowers resulting to reduced production of the dry beans. Magonono are often known for their gregarious behaviour when attacking crops which can be catastrophic (Helm, 1992).
Open Access
Extracts Obtained from Pterocarpus angolensis DC and Ziziphus mucronata Exhibit Antiplasmodial Activity and Inhibit Heat Shock Protein 70 (Hsp70) Function
(MDPI, 2017) Zininga, Tawanda; Anokwuru, Chineda P.; Sigidi, Muendi T.; Tshisikhawe, Milingoni P.; Ramaite, Isaiah I. D.; Traore, Afsatou N.; Hoppe, Heinrich; Shonhai, Addmore; Potgieter, Natasha
Malaria parasites are increasingly becoming resistant to currently used antimalarial therapies, therefore there is an urgent need to expand the arsenal of alternative antimalarial drugs. In addition, it is also important to identify novel antimalarial drug targets. In the current study, extracts of two plants, Pterocarpus angolensis and Ziziphus mucronata were obtained and their antimalarial functions were investigated. Furthermore, we explored the capability of the extracts to inhibit Plasmodium falciparum heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) function. Heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) are molecular chaperones whose function is to facilitate protein folding. Plasmodium falciparum the main agent of malaria, expresses two cytosol-localized Hsp70s: PfHsp70-1 and PfHsp70-z. The PfHsp70-z has been reported to be essential for parasite survival, while inhibition of PfHsp70-1 function leads to parasite death. Hence both PfHsp70-1 and PfHsp70-z are potential antimalarial drug targets. Extracts of P. angolensis and Z. mucronata inhibited the basal ATPase and chaperone functions of the two parasite Hsp70s. Furthermore, fractions of P. angolensis and Z. mucronata inhibited P. falciparum 3D7 parasite growth in vitro. The extracts obtained in the current study exhibited antiplasmodial activity as they killed P. falciparum parasites maintained in vitro. In addition, the findings further suggest that some of the compounds in P. angolensis and Z. mucronata may target parasite Hsp70 function.
Open Access
Hierarchies of knowledge: ethnobotanical knowledge, practices and beliefs of the Vhavenda in South Africa for biodiversity conservation
(BMC, 2018) Constant, Natasha Louise; Tshisikhawe, Milingoni Peter
Background: Indigenous and local knowledge systems are characterised by a ‘knowledge-practice-belief’ complex that plays a critical role for biodiversity management and conservation on indigenous lands. However, few studies take into consideration the interconnected relationship between the social processes underpinning knowledge accumulation, generation and transmission. The study draws on ethnobotanical research to explore plant uses, practices and belief systems developed among the indigenous Vhavenda in South Africa for sustaining indigenous plant resources and highlights some of the forces of change influencing the acquisition and transmission of knowledge. Methods: Data was collected from September–November 2016 from 31 individuals by means of semi-structured interviews; walks in home gardens, cultivated fields, montane forests and deciduous woodlands; and vouchering of plant species in six villages (Duthuni, Tshidzivhe, Vuvha, Lwamondo, Mashau and Tshiendeulu) in the Vhembe District of South Africa. The Use Value Index (UVI) was used to measure the number of different uses of each species and the Relative Frequency Index (RFI) to measure the local importance of each species. Semi-structured interviews and comparisons with published works also explored cultural practices and belief systems associated with plants, modes and barriers of knowledge transmission. Results: Eighty-four plant species were reported within 44 families, with Fabaceae representing the highest diversity of plant species. We identified six species not previously documented in the Vhavenda ethnobotanical literature, 68 novel uses of plants and another 14 variations of known uses. Vhavenda plants were predominantly used for food (36.0%) and medicine (26.1%) and consisted mainly of native (73.8%) compared to non-native species (26.2%). The Vhavenda possess a range of practices for managing plant resources that can be attributed to taboos preventing the use of selected species, promotion of sustainable harvesting practices and the propagation of plant species for ecological restoration. Plant knowledge and management practices were transmitted from relatives (48.4%), self-taught through time spent planting and harvesting plants on the land (19.4%), through apprenticeships with traditional healers (16.1%), initiation schools (9. 7%) and clan gatherings (6.4%). Changes in traditional learning platforms for knowledge exchange, erosion of cultural institutions and shifting value systems serve as barriers for knowledge transmission among the Vhavenda. Conclusion: The study points to a need for new partnerships to be forged between conservationists, government actors and local and indigenous knowledge holders to foster hybrid knowledge coproduction for developing strategies to enhance the productivity and biodiversity of indigenous lands.
Open Access
Impact of Ethnobotanical Utilization on the Population Structure of Androstachys Johnsonii Prain in the Vhembe Area of the Limpopo Province, South Africa
(Scholarly Pages, 2017-10-16) Bakali, M.; Ligavha-Mbelengwa, M. H.; Porgieter, M. J.; Tshisikhawe, M. P.
Due to high levels of impoverishment, rural communities in southern African are highly dependent on their surroundings to sustain their livelihood. However, the rampant harvesting of Androstachys johnsonii Prain. In Vhembe area is a cause for concern although its conservation status is of Least Concern. Androstachys johnsonii is a tree species used for a variety of purposes in the Vhembe Area of South Africa to maintain households. Thus in order to obtain baseline data to propose ways of preserving the species, an investigation was launched to determine the extent of usage of A. johnsonii at Matshena village and document its population structure via stem size classes, crown health and plant height classes. Results indicate that this tree species is being used for a variety of purposes by inhabitants, with 65% of trees surveyed showing signs of harvesting. Due to its extremely durable hardwood this species is mostly used for fencing, roofing, pillar construction, and as firewood. Additional ethnobotanical uses include fodder for goats and cattle and medicinal purposes. Of the 353 A. johnsonii trees measured, the majority (27%) are in the 0-10 cm stem size class, and nearly 88% are lower than 5 m in height. Trees mostly had crowns with some extent of damage, and were to a large degree multi-stemmed. From the above, it is clear that A. johnsonii is in dire need of formal (legislative) and traditional (tribal) protection if the population is to be managed in a sustainable manner for the preservation of future generations. It is suggested that this species be elevated in discussions with provincial environmental authorities, and community elders and chiefs be informed about the long term ecological and environmental consequences that current unsustainable harvesting practices will have on this multi-use species.
Open Access
Intermediate predator naïveté and sex-skewed vulnerability predict the impact of an invasive higher predator
(Springer Nature, 2018-09-18) Cuthbert, Ross N.; Dalu, Tatenda; Wasserman, Ryan J.; Dick, Jaimie T. A.; Mofu, Amanda Callaghan; Weyl, Olaf L. F.
The spread of invasive species continues to reduce biodiversity across all regions and habitat types globally. However, invader impact prediction can be nebulous, and approaches often fail to integrate coupled direct and indirect invader effects. Here, we examine the ecological impacts of an invasive higher predator on lower trophic groups, further developing methodologies to more holistically quantify invader impact. We employ functional response (FR, resource use under different densities) and prey switching experiments to examine the trait- and density-mediated impacts of the invasive mosquitofish Gambusia affinis on an endemic intermediate predator Lovenula raynerae (Copepoda). Lovenula raynerae effectively consumed larval mosquitoes, but was naïve to mosquitofish cues, with attack rates and handling times of the intermediate predator unaffected by mosquitofish cue-treated water. Mosquitofish did not switch between male and female prey, consistently displaying a strong preference for female copepods. We thus demonstrate a lack of risk-reduction activity in the presence of invasive fish by L. raynerae and, in turn, high susceptibility of such intermediate trophic groups to invader impact. Further, we show that mosquitofish demonstrate sex-skewed predator selectivity towards intermediate predators of mosquito larvae, which may affect predator population demographics and, perversely, increase disease vector proliferations. We advocate the utility of FRs and prey switching combined to holistically quantify invasive species impact potential on native organisms at multiple trophic levels.
Open Access
Invasive alien plant species: A case study of their use in the Thulamela Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa
(Academic Journals, 2012-07-19) Semenya, Sebua S.; Tshisikhawe, Milingoni P.; Potgieter, Martin T.
The spread of plants from one country to another through intentional and unintentional human activities is a serious threat to the world’s biodiversity; second only to habitat destruction. However, a number of studies have shown that invasive alien plant species can positively contribute to rural economies. This paper is an attempt to document a few of these species ‘positive contribution to rural inhabitants’ well-being in and around Thulamela Local Municipality in Vhembe District of South Africa. Information on the uses of invasive alien plant species were obtained in 2010 through interviews with local inhabitants and traditional healers. Twenty one plant species, from 15 families, were found to be utilized by rural inhabitants. These species are important sources of food and medicine, provide firewood, and are of aesthetic value. They have become alternative sources of utilization, where the indigenous vegetation has been decimated by overexploitation. This study postulates that their extensive use, under careful management, could form part of a strategy for social upliftment and environmental management in poor rural municipalities.
Open Access
Invasive alien plants used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS-related symptoms by traditional healers of Vhembe Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa
(2017-10-01) Mbambala, S. G.; Tshisikhawe, M. P.; Masevhe, N. A.
Background: Invasive alien plants have been known to play an important role in the lives of rural communities with regard to food security, ornamental purposes, as well as primary healthcare. The study presents the results of data collected through a survey on the use of invasive alien plants in the treatment of HIV/AIDS related symptoms. Materials and Methods: Twenty-one traditional healers were interviewed using semi structured questionnaires. Parameters recorded during the interviews were local names, symptoms treated, plant parts used, life form and availability estimates of the plant species. Results: A total of 38 invasive alien plant species belonging to 23 families were recorded to be used in the treatment of HIV/AIDS related symptoms. The largest proportion of recorded invasive alien plants belonged to the family Asteraceae with 16%. Roots were the most frequently used parts constituting 35% followed closely by leaves with 34%. Wounds were the main symptoms treated with a proportion of 56% followed by gonorrhoea (20%). Conclusion: From the study, invasive alien plant species played a vital role in traditional primary healthcare. Despite their medicinal potential, it is recommended that traditional healers and community members be educated on the impact of invasive alien plants on biodiversity.