DISTRIBUTION PATTERNS OF TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS IN KWAZULU-NATAL

Distribution patterns, plotted by eighth-degree squares (7.5' x 7.5'), of the 162 mammal species recorded in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa were examined in relation to the combined factors of vege tation type, climate, and altitude (= bioregions); and in relation to protected areas within the nine bioregions. Highest species richness w as recorded in the warmest most heterogeneous (vegetation) bioregions, and lowest in a cool montane region. Species richness was intermediat e in relatively homogeneous, predominantly grassland bioregions. Mamma lian biodiversity in KwaZulu-Natal is concentrated in the savanna regi ons in the north-east of the province, although further species-rich a reas are found in the north-west and south-west for carnivores, and in the central region for many of the smaller mammals (Insectivora, Chir optera, Rodentia). Analysis of taxonomic resemblances between bioregio ns distinguished taxonomically distinct 'savanna' and 'grassland' grou ps. Taxonomic resemblances between bioregions were generally lowest in bats (i.e. greatest bioregion specificity) and highest in carnivores (i.e. lowest specificity). In total, 92% of the mammal species occur i n one or more protected areas. The percentages of species within prote cted areas in each of the bioregions are generally high (68-100%). In four of the bioregions the amount of land occupied by protected areas is adequate (6-96%) and protected areas are large, but in the other fi ve bioregions the opposite holds (< 2% protected) and populations with in them may not be viable.