Mesobrowser Abundance and Effects on Woody Plants in Savannas

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the direct effects of the mesobrowsers on woody plants in savannas, focusing on the class of mammalian ungulates and macropodids that range in size from approximately 5kg to 1000kg, but which are mostly < 500 kg. It first reviews the distribution and abundance of mesobrowsers in savannas around the world. The chapter then reviews long-term studies of the effects of mesobrowsers on woody plant growth and community dynamics, most of which have been conducted in African savannas. It makes readers to understand ecosystem-level characteristics that allow or prevent mesobrowser regulation of woody plant recruitment and growth rates, as both native and domestic mesobrowser abundance are influenced by human activities and management. Furthermore, debates surrounding elephant management in African savannas often center on how elephants are affecting woody plants, but knowledge of mesobrowser effects is essential to determine whether elephant management will achieve desired outcomes for savanna vegetation.