VEGETATION CHANGE IN QUEEN-ELIZABETH-NATIONAL-PARK, UGANDA - 1970-1988

Vegetation change in Queen Elizabeth National Park, W. Uganda between 1970 and 1988 was studied, mainly by comparison of photographs. Regene ration of Acacia spp. is widespread. Thickets dominated by Capparis to mentosa and Dichrostachys cinerea have spread, and their associated he rbs are more diverse. Dry scrub forests have continued to decline. Fri nges of Vossia cuspidata with shrubs such as Aeschynomene have develop ed at lake shores. Most of these changes can be attributed to the decl ine in elephant numbers, but a general reduction in large herbivore bi omass may also be important. The possible consequences for tourism are discussed, and the importance of careful experimental design and site marking for long-term vegetation monitoring emphasized.