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.