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In spite of their positive role, wetland ecosystems are under intense human pressure that results in their degradation and thus their ability to provide vital functions. The semi-urban community of...

Rasethe MT, Potgieter M, Pfab M. 2021. Local management strategies and attitudes towards selected threatened or protected plant species in Limpopo Province, South Africa. Biodiversitas 22: 3773-3784. Throughout South Africa, ordinary people are managing and using local natural resources in ways that enhance their lives, but there is a major concern about the sustainability of wild plant harvest. This study aims to investigate the current management strategies employed by local people in the Limpopo Province for selected threatened or protected plant species (TOPS). Semi-structured questionnaires were used to gather information from a total of 333 participants, i.e. 110 community members (CMs), 180 traditional health practitioners (THPs), and 28 traditional leaders (TLs), as well as from 15 conservation officers (COs). The study area included the districts of Capricorn, Sekhukhune, Mopani, Vhembe, and Waterberg. Results indicated that in all districts of the province most CMs and THPs reported that no one managed plant resources in their surrounding communal lands, though TLs indicated that the state was involved with management. Fifty-nine percent of THPs indicated that there are no traditional rules that are applied towards conservation of communal lands, yet 91% of other participants in the Mopani, Sekhukhune, and Capricorn districts indicated that traditional rules are followed. Most CMs in these three districts were allowed to participate in conservation initiatives, although most of them did not know that the plants they were using were threatened and protected in legislation. It is recommended that collaborative partnerships be initiated between government and TLs in relation to managing the threatened or protected plant species in communal lands.

Ethnobotanical relevance Invasive alien plant species are used individually or in combinations to treat sexually transmitted infections (STI's). However, ethnobotanical information of invasive alien species is scanty, especially on the treatment of STI's. The aim of the study Document ethnobotanical applications of invasive alien species in the treatment of STI's in the Waterberg District of Limpopo Province, South Africa. Materials and methods An ethnobotanical survey was conducted in the Waterberg District. Using a semi-structured questionnaire, 30 traditional health practitioners were selected via snowball sampling. Importance of medicinal plants was analysed using Fidelity Level (FL), Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), and the Use Value (UV). Results Fourteen invasive alien species belonging to ten families were documented for the treatment of seven STI's. Plant species were mostly utilised for their roots (58.8%) and leaves (23.6%). Up to 60% of the species were used individually, while combination therapy was also common (40%). A decoction was the preferred method of preparation. The administration mode was predominantly oral (92.7%). Important species with high FL and with high use-report were Opuntia ficus-indica (63.9) and Catharantheus roseus (57.3). The highest ICF values were cited for mokabe (testicular swelling) (1) and gonorrhoea (0.73), with Senna didymobotrya and C. roseus being the most frequently used species. Species with the highest UV values were C. roseus (0.65), Agave sisalana (0.41) and Solanum elaegnifolium (0.55). Conclusion Agave sisalana, Catharanthus roseus, Opuntia ficus-indica, Ricinus communis, Senna didymobotrya, and solanum species were the most commonly used species for the treatment of sexually transmitted infections in the Waterberg District. Further pharmacological studies are encouraged on the species with the highest FL, ICF and UV values.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern in developing countries with their transmission rate regarded as one of the highest in the world. A large proportion of the rural population in the Blouberg area of South Africa relies on traditional health practitioners and their practices of medicinal plants in order to meet their health care needs. The aim of the study was thus to gain insights into the way in which THPs manage the symptoms of STIs via the use of medicinal plants. Information was collected from 33 THPs using an interview schedule. Information recorded included ailments treated, diagnoses and gender treated. Further information regarding species used, growth forms harvested, plant parts used, as well as mode of preparation and administration of remedies was sought. Results showed that THPs manage only gonorrhoea, chalmydia and makgoma. Seventeen plant species belonging to 12 families are used to manage STIs. Herbs (41%), trees (35%) and shrubs (24%) were used. Roots (70%), bulbs (18%), as well as fruits and bark (6% each) were utilised. Remedies were prepared by boiling, powdering and pounding. The preferred method of administration was orally. The study found seven new species used by Bapedi THPs to manage STIs and related symptoms. This study reveals that local communities in the Blouberg area, still depend on THPs and traditional medicines for basic healthcare. Bapedi THPs in the Blouberg area play an important role in the management of STIs.

Despite the nutritional value of Colophospermum mopane leaves to browser's diets, there is limited knowledge on the effect of browsers on the concentration of macronutrients in mopane leaves. A field experiment was conducted in Musina Nature Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa to determine the effect of pruning, a proxy for browsing, on the concentration of macronutrients in mopane leaves. Samples were analysed for calcium (Ca), potassium (K), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), sulphur (S), chlorine (Cl), magnesium (Mg), nitrate (NO₃), sodium (Na), protein and fibre, using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry techniques. The effect of pruning on the monthly concentration of macronutrients was tested using a two‐tailed t test: two‐sample assuming equal variance. The seasonal and annual effect of pruning on the concentration of macronutrients was tested using a one‐way ANOVA. Results showed that the amount of Ca, K, N, P, S, Cl, Na, protein and fibre increased during leaf flush in October and then declined as the leaves matured and aged. However, the concentration of Mg and NO₃ increased when the leaves reached maturity in June, particularly during senescence stage, and declined thereafter. The concentration of macronutrients between the control and pruned trees was statistically insignificant for most samples.

Despite the wide distribution of the Tragelaphus strepsiceros (greater kudu) in the mopane woodland, there is still limited information on the influence of terrain on the browsing path of the great...

The African elephant (Loxodonta africana Blumenbach) is a keystone species and ecosystem engineer. Elephants can cause serious damage to important trees, with only certain species being targeted such as Marula (Sclerocarya birrea A. Rich. Hoscht). High levels of elephant utilization may to some extent, compromise the viability of some woody plant populations leading to vegetation changes coupled with a possible loss of species diversity and/or structural diversity. In order to quantify their effect a study was initiated in 2014 to investigate their effect on tree height, degree of branch damage, the extent of debarking, and degree of stem damage. This was done within elephant’s frequently and non–frequently used sites, and a neighbouring enclosure (control site). One hundred and fifty (50 per site) mature S. birrea trees were randomly selected within each site. Tree height was recorded using clinometers, degree of branch damage, extent of debarking (circumference debarked using different percentages of intensity) and degree of stem damage were assessed using different categories. Results indicated that the type elephant damage in both the frequently and non–frequently used sites was different, varied in intensity. A high proportion of Marula trees had been damaged. The size distributions of the trees showed that there was no regeneration. Furthermore, this study also demonstrated that elephants are able to damage Marula trees in several ways, the most destructive being bark stripping and pushing over trees. It is concluded that elephant impact is a powerful mechanism in shaping the structure and composition of Marula woodlands in the Atherstone Collaborative Nature Reserve. The findings of this study provide valuable baseline data and acts as a starting point for the introduction of adaptive management principles in small savanna reserves. This can be achieved by an intensive management programme responding to slight changes in the vegetation and would necessarily involve controlling elephant numbers. Key words: Crown diameter, damage, elephant, herbivory, marula.

Despite the nutritional value of Colophospermum mopane to browser's diets, there is still insufficient knowledge on the effect of browsers on concentrations of these trace elements. A field experiment was conducted in Musina Nature Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa, to determine the effect of pruning on the concentration of trace elements in mopane leaves. Samples were analysed for iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), boron (B), molybdenum (Mo), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), cobalt (Co), fluoride (F) and selenium (Se) using the inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry technique. The effect of pruning was tested using the two-tailed t-test: two-sample assuming equal variance and two-tailed Mann–Whitney U-test. Results showed that the concentration of trace elements in the control and pruned trees varies slightly through the year. Fe, Mn, Mo, Cu, Zn and Se are higher during leaf flush, but declined as the leaves matured and aged. This study concluded that simulated browsing had no significant effect on the concentration of trace elements in the mopane leaves. Seasonal variation in the amount of trace elements has implications on the distribution of browsers in the mopane woodland.

Colophospermum mopane, commonly known as mopane, produces secondary metabolites during the growing season. However, there is still insufficient knowledge on the quantity of secondary metabolites and the effect of browsers on the concentration of secondary metabolites. A pruning experiment was conducted in the Musina Nature Reserve, Limpopo province, South Africa, to simulate the effect of browsers on the concentration of secondary metabolites in mopane leaves. The twigs from 40 selected experimental mopane trees were pruned back 50 mm from their tips using a hand shear. The total amount of leaf and shoot biomass removed from branches of selected experimental trees was less than 10%. Three independent samples composed of seven mopane leaves per 40 mopane trees were randomly collected from the canopies of experimental and control trees per sampling event. The dried leaves from each three independent samples were then mixed separately and a pooled sample of 10 g per treatment per sample cycle (55 d) was used for determination of total phenols (TP), condensed tannins (CT) and protein-precipitating tannins (PPT). Results showed that

Background Sexually transmitted infections continue to be a major health concern in sub-Saharan Africa where antimicrobial drugs are becoming ineffective due to increasing resistance. Many healthcare seekers in lower socio-economic settings depend on invasive alien plants administered by traditional health practitioners to treat sexually transmitted infections. Methods Roots of selected plants were analysed for phytoconstituents using standard methods. Both the disc diffusion model and microdilution technique were used to determine the inhibition zone and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of plant extracts against six clinical fungal strains and standard strain of Neisseria gonorrhoea. One-way ANOVA was used to find significant differences. Results Different phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, steroids, cardiac glycosides, terpenes, flavonoids, tannins and saponins were qualitatively detected, depending on plant species. Acetone extracted the highest number of phytoconstituents in Senna didymobotrya, while methanol revealed most from Ricinus communis. Senna didymobotrya showed significant inhibition against Candida glabrata, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. Dichloromethane extract of Catharanthus roseus and methanol extract of S. didymobotrya demonstrated excellent MIC values of 0.03 and 0.08 mg/mL, respectively, against C. glabrata. Catharanthus roseus, Opuntia ficus-indica and Ricinus communis demonstrated moderate to good antigonococcal activity, with all exhibiting more than 63% inhibition. Catharanthus roseus had the best antigonococcal activity with a moderate MIC value of 0.63 mg/mL. Conclusion Some of the plant extracts demonstrated potency towards clinically isolated fungal strains and against N. gonorrhoea, which validate the notion that some of the species need further pharmacological studies for isolation and characterisation of active compounds.

Tragelaphus strepsiceros (greater kudu) has adapted to the harsh conditions of southern Africa’s mopani woodland. However, there is still limited information on the diet composition and selection of browse by greater kudu, particularly during the wet season. This poses a challenge to manage these ungulates effectively within their habitat. The study used rumen content to quantify the diet composition of greater kudu during the wet season. The study was conducted at the Sandown Game Farm, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Rumen samples were collected from four adult female and four adult male greater kudu culled in March 2015 and statistically analyzed using the t-test: paired two sample for means and Pearson’s correlation coefficient analysis. Findings show that Combretum apiculatum contributed most (43%) to the diet of greater kudu during the wet season. Other browse plant species were Sclerocarya birrea (24%), Colophospermum mopane (12%), and Acacia nigrescens (8%), with the contribution of the remaining species to the diet being insignificant. Leaves were the plant parts browsed most often and contributed 81% to the diet during this season. The remaining 19% of the diet consisted mainly of S. birrea fruit. Gender differences in diet selection were observed. The diet of female greater kudu consisted mainly of C. apiculatum (44%) and C. mopane (20%), while the diet of male greater kudu mostly contained S. birrea (38%) and C. apiculatum (34%). Implications for the management and conservation of greater kudu in mopani veld are discussed.

Colophospermum mopane (J. Kirk ex Benth.) J. Kirk ex J. Leonard occurs over a very large region of southern Africa, occupying varying habitats that could account for ecotypic speciation. This investigation statistical analysed the variations in the architecture of the leaflets of C. mopane from the Limpopo Province of South Africa, with the purpose of ascertaining whether natural variability can act as a source of information for investigating ecotypic variation. Leaf morphometric traits, such as leaflet area, length, width, perimeter, pulvinus angle and the acuteness of the apex, were digitally measured and statistically compared for intra- and inter-population variability. Data indicate that the intra-population variation is 35.33% (statistical similarity: 64.67%), while the inter-population (n = 5) variation is 46.67% (statistical similarity: 53.33%).

One of the most important psychological concepts required for enhanced learning is motivation. This is especially true for science, which is seen by learners as being difficult. This study investigated the motivational changes with regard to studying science and the gender and age differences when using hand puppets in the science classroom. In order to examine this, a 7-week intervention involving the teaching of science by means of hand puppets was conducted in two Grade 6 and two Grade 7 classes in rural-based Dikgale, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The learners’ motivation was assessed in terms of basic psychological needs, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, with a questionnaire before and after the intervention. Data were analysed using a paired sample t-test, an independent t-test and a MANCOVA. The results show an increase in basic psychological needs and intrinsic motivation, and a decrease in extrinsic motivation for science, after the use of hand puppets. In addition, it appears that there are no gender and age differences regarding motivational change when using hand puppets in science education. It is therefore concluded that hand puppets are a promising teaching method that positively affects the motivation of school learners studying science. Thus it is recommended that further research in the form of an experimental longitudinal design be undertaken to ascertain long-term motivational changes.

Colophospermum mopane, commonly known as mopane, is a dominant tree or shrub in the mopane woodland. It is widely distributed in the low-lying areas of southern Africa's savanna. Despite its wide distribution, ability to survive water stress conditions, and value as a source of browse for herbivores, especially during the dry season, there is limited knowledge on mopane leaf production and phenology as well as its implications to browsers.

Colophospermum mopane, commonly known as mopane, provides essential browse to the greater kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros), especially during the dry season. This study uses analysis of rumen-contents to quantify the use of C. mopane and other plants browsed by the greater kudu in the dry season. The study was conducted at the Sandown Game Farm, Musina Local Municipality, Limpopo Province of South Africa. Rumen samples were collected from three male and two female greater kudu culled in June 2014 and statistically analysed using t-Test: Paired Two Sample for Means and Pearson Correlation Coefficient analysis. Findings show that C. mopane contributed the most (47%) to the diet of the greater kudu during the dry season. Other important browse plants were Dichrostachys cineria (30%), Commiphora edulis (12%), Grewia bicolor (6%) and Combretum apiculatum (5%), with the contribution of T. prunioides and G. flava to the diet being insignificant. The plant parts mostly browsed were leaves, which contributed 75% to...

Records regarding the traditional medicinal use of Kirkia wilmsii are almost non-existent. Data on the extent of use of this species by 34 traditional healers as a treatment of hypertension was documented in 2013 in three districts (Capricorn, Sekhukhune and Waterberg) of the Limpopo Province (South Africa), via a semi-structured questionnaire, supplemented with field observations. Results indicate that K. wilmsii is used by 97% of interviewed healers. The utilisation pattern of this species was highly uniform between all interviewees in terms of used part (tuberous roots), preparation method (raw prescription), route of administration (oral), and dosage strength (five to six pieces after meals). Selected mountainous areas in the Capricorn and Waterberg districts were the main source of K. wilmsii tuberous roots. This study concludes that widespread use of K. wilmsii by traditional healers for hypertension is an indication that it might contain anti-hypertensive properties. However, of concern are the unsustainable harvesting methods adopted by these traditional medical practitioners, thus indicating an urgent need for educational measures and interventions to cultivate this species.

The objective of this study was to document useful plants in urban domestic gardens in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Data on plant use categories of urban domestic gardens in the under-develo...

Seriphium plumosum is a declared indicator of bush encroachment and poses a serious threat to the management of sustainable utilization in all grasslands. The successful invasiveness of Seriphium plumosum is attributed to its competitive ability and an apparent highly allelopathic potential. A study was conducted at the University of Limpopo (South Africa) to investigate the effect of S. plumosum on the germination and radicle length of Lactuca sativa.

The geographical landscapes together with environmental conditions are well recognised drivers in determining a suitable habitat for plants and animals on rocky as well as granite outcrops. Granite outcrops of the Mamabolo Mountain Bushveld (Limpopo Province, South Africa) are ideal in investigating aspects of landscape geography and specific abiotic factors in order to understand floristic compositions amongst outcrops themselves and that of their surrounding vegetation matrix.

The African elephant is listed as a Protected Species in the list of Threatened or Protected Species. The interaction between elephants and trees in African savannas has become an active debate between scientists and managers as a result of ecosystem regulation. The study aimed at investigating the interactions between elephants and vegetation; assess the long-term impact of elephant damage on selected vegetation types, and extent of damage on certain species for browse, such as Sclerocarya birrea.

This paper provides a review of the existing literature on the significance of mopane wood and non-wood products to rural people's livelihoods, especially those in northern South Africa, southern Zimbabwe and eastern Botswana. Most rural dwellers in mopane areas are poor and therefore make wide use of mopane products for subsistence and commercial purposes. Mopane wood is primarily used for firewood, while the poles are used for the construction of traditional structures. A household of 7 to 8 people uses on average 7.8 kg of mopane firewood for cooking one meal per day, or 2.8 tonnes per year, while a mean volume of 1.22 m3 to 1.86 m3 of poles is required for the construction of a traditional hut. Villagers also harvest the larvae of the moth Imbrasia belina (mopane worms) in order to supplement their diet. Dry mopane worms are nutritious, containing protein levels of up to 65% and an energy concentration of 543 Kcal/100g. Mopane worms are also traded to generate income and its trade provides a good economic return. This paper shows that the consumption of and trade in mopane products contribute significantly to rural people's livelihoods. One challenge is that information on the importance of mopane products in sustaining rural people's livelihoods is limited, old and scanty, hence the value of this review. To address the problem, this paper aims to contribute to a better understanding of the value of mopane products to rural people's wellbeing, and also stimulate the need to sustainably manage mopane into the future.

The current dataset follows the published article [1]. The dataset provides preliminary phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity of selected invasive alien plant used by Bapedi Traditional Health Practitioners to treat sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It was evident that seven STIs are treated with herbal remedies of the documented plant species. Informational on the medicinal plant uses and the use categories of sexually transmitted infections are presented on table 1. Table 2 shows the yield of plant extracts. Detailed data on phytochemical analysis and antioxidant activity are presented on Fig 1 and 2 respectively. Rf values of separated compounds are provided in Table 3. The data contains both qualitative and quantitative information. Keywords: Sexually transmitted infections, Medicinal plants, Phytochemical analysis, Antioxidant activity

Various indigenous cultures in the Limpopo Province of South Africa are transitioning from a traditional lifestyle to a westernised one. This leads to a loss of cultural identity and knowledge. Consequently, an ethnobotanical survey was conducted to investigate the medicinal uses of indigenous plants in the Mogalakwena Local Municipality of the Waterberg District in Limpopo Province, South Africa, an area experiencing rapid transition to a western lifestyle. The study interviewed 30 traditional healers via a semi-structured questionnaire. Thirty five indigenous plant species were documented to be used in the treatment of 37 ailments. These species are distributed among 22 families, of which Asteraceae (5 species), Fabaceae (4 species) and Hyacinthaceae (3 species) are the most prominent. The remaining families are represented by either a single or two species. Bark and roots accounted for 50% of the material used, followed by leaves (12%) and tuber (8%), amongst other. Preparation of remedies was mainly through decoctions (40%), followed by infusions (33.3%), paste (8.3%), and fumes through burning (6.7%). The high percentage of bark and roots use is an area of concern. Furthermore this study found many instances of unsustainable harvesting techniques. These issues need immediate attention for the long term conservation of a number of threatened species identified in this study.

Background: Invasive alien plant species (IAPs) are plants that have migrated from one geographical region to non-native region either intentional or unintentional.The general view of IAPs in environment is regarded as destructive to the ecosystem and they pose threat to native vegetation and species. However, some of these IAPS are utilized by local inhabitants as a substitute for scarce indigenous plants. The aim of the study is to conduct ethnobotanical survey on medicinal usage of invasive plant species in Waterberg District, Limpopo Province, South Africa.Materials and methods: An ethnobotanical survey on invasive plant species was conducted to distinguish species used for the treatment of various ailments in the Waterberg, District in the area dominated by Bapedi traditional healers. About thirty Bapedi traditional healers (30) were randomly selected via the snowball method. A guided field work by traditional healers and a semistructured questionnaire was used to gather information from the traditional healers. The questionnaire was designed to gather information on the local name of plants, plant parts used and methods of preparation which is administered by the traditional healers.Results: The study revealed that Schinus molle L., Catharanthus roseus (L.), Datura stramonium L., Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw., Opuntia ficus- indica, Sambucus canadensis L., Ricinus communis L., Melia azedarch L., Argemone ochroleuca and Eriobotrya japonica are used for treatment of various diseases such as chest complaint, blood purification, asthma, hypertension and infertility. The most plant parts that were used are 57.6% leaves, followed by 33.3% roots, and whole plant, seeds and bark at 3% each. Noticeably, most of these plants are cultivated (38%), followed by 28% that are common to the study area, 20% abundant, 12% wild,and 3% occasionally. Schinus molle is the most frequently used plant species for the treatment of various ailments in the study area. National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act (NEMBA) (10/2004) and Conservation of Agricultural Resource Act (CARA) were consulted to confirm the invaders status. Only eight plants (60%) are regulated by CARA (10/2004). Of 10 IAPs, 80% (8 species) are listed in both NEMBA and CARA legislation. Only 20% (2 species) are listed in NEMBA alone.Conclusion: Invasive alien plants are utilized by communities to combat various ailments in humans and these plants can help to reduce pressure on heavily harvested indigenous plant.Key words: Ethnobotanical survey, Invasive plant species, Traditional healers.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Most exotic plants are usually labelled as alien invasives and targeted for eradication. However, some of these exotic plants play an important role in the traditional primary healthcare sector of the Bapedi culture in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. The medicinal uses of most of these species have neither been documented nor their biological activity evaluated. Aim of the study To make an inventory of exotic species employed by Bapedi traditional healers to treat different human ailments in the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Materials and methods Semi-structured interviews, observation and guided field walks with 52 traditional healers were employed to obtain ethnobotanical data during first half of 2011 on the use of exotic plant species by Bapedi healers to treat human ailments. Based on ethnobotanical information provided by these healers, specimens were collected, numbered, pressed, and dried for identification. Results A total of 35 exotics species belonging to 21 families and 34 genera, mostly from the Fabaceae and Solanaceae (11.4% for each), Apocynaceae and Asteraceae (8.5% for each) were used by Bapedi healers to treat 20 human ailments. Trees (45.7%) and herbs (37.1%) are the primary source of medicinal plants. Species most frequently reported were used for the treatment of hypertension (35%), diabetes mellitus, erectile dysfunction and gonorrhoea (25% for each). The highest consensus from individual accounts of the traditional healers on the use of exotic plant remedies in this study was noted for the three ailments. These were for Catharanthus roseus (gonorrhoea, 60%), Punica granatum (diarrhoea, 38.4%) and Ricinus communis (sores, 21.5%). Of the 35 exotic plant species recorded, 34.2% are regulated by the Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (1983) (CARA) No. 43 of 1983 either as worst weeds or invaders. Conclusion The present study demonstrated that exotic plant species play an important part as medicinal remedies employed by Bapedi healers to treat different human diseases in the Limpopo Province. The use of these species as alternative sources of medicinal remedies could alleviate harvesting pressure of wild indigenous plants, thereby enhance biodiversity's region. However, there is a need to formulate an appropriate policy to retain some of the useful medicinal exotics (listed under CARA No. 43 of 1983) within the environment before their medicinal value vanishes as they are eradicated through management strategies adopted by the South African government.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Bapedi phytomedicine employ a range of plant species to treat diabetes mellitus (DM). Existing literature partially support the use of certain species for this purpose. Aim of the study To report on Bapedi medicinal plants employed to treat DM. Materials and methods A semi-structured questionnaire was employed to conduct a survey on medicinal plants used by Bapedi traditional healers in their DM management protocol. Fifty-two traditional healers from 16 municipalities, covering three districts, were interviewed during the first half of 2011. Results A total of 24 plant species belonging to 20 families, mostly from the Asteraceae (13%), Cucurbitaceae and Sapotaceae (8%), were used to treat diabetes mellitus. Plant parts mostly preferred were roots and leaves. A decoction of these is most commonly used to make extracts, which are then taken orally for a period of one week. Mimusops zeyheri (29%), Helichrysum caespititium (25%), Plumeria obtusa (21%), Aloe marlothii subsp. marlothii, Hypoxis iridifolia and Moringa oleifera (17% each), were repeatedly mentioned by the traditional healers as most used for the management of diabetes mellitus in the study area. Plumeria obtusa and Momordica balsamina are exclusively used to treat diabetes mellitus, and only in the Sekhukhune District. Conclusion It is concluded that Bapedi traditional healers do have a basic understanding of the causes and remedial action required in the treatment of diabetes mellitus.

The nymphal stages of the African mopane psyllid Retroacizzia mopani occur on Colophospermum mopane leaves, feeding on the phloem sap. The emergence of R. mopani coincides with the dry winter period in South Africa, when other trees are leafless. The nymphal stages secrete a scutcheon-like protective covering called lerp. The position of lerps on the leaflets depended on the stage of development of the nymphs. First and second instar nymph lerps were placed along the smaller secondary veins, whereas third, fourth and fifth instars placed their lerps along the main veins on either surface of the leaflet. Nymphs were more common on the adaxial surface than on the abaxial surface of the leaves, suggesting that the lerp offers some form of protection against predators and desiccation. Nymphs do not co-habit the same lerp. Visible damage caused by nymphs and lerps on the host plant includes discolouration of leaflets around feeding sites and occasional curled leaflets.

The distribution of the eggs of the African mopane psyllid Retroacizzia mopani on the mopane tree Colophospermum mopane leaves was studied in the field and in the laboratory by observations and scanning electron microscopy. R. mopani eggs were observed and collected from the host plant, on which the nymphs live and feed on the leaf phloem. The distribution of eggs and nymphs on the leaflets was observed. Eggs were deposited mostly on the abaxial surface and most eggs (76%) were found along veins. Contrary to the literature, eggs were not attached to the leaflet surface by a pedicel but were glued to the surface. Eggs were laid mostly in clusters and were often camouflaged by black fungal spots that were common on the leaflets. To avoid desiccation, C. mopane leaflets usually fold together to reduce the surface area exposed to sunlight, thus reducing the rate of water loss.

The value of woodland products to rural livelihoods was investigated within six selected villages in the northeast of the Limpopo Province, South Africa. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 180 householders. Amount of woodland products used by villagers was determined by weighed them in a portable mass balance. We also review studies that examine the value of woodland products to rural people wellbeing. Results indicate that villagers obtain basic needs such as fuelwood, construction poles from the surrounding woodland. Eighty percent of respondents use fuelwood as the primary source of energy for cooking and heating. A household of 7 people uses a mean of 2 847 kg of fuelwood for cooking year1. Some villagers sell fuelwood for RIO per 10 kg at the urban market. A mean volume of 1.360 m3 poles is used for construction of a hut, 0.436 m3 for a medium granary constructed outside the hut, 7.221 m3 for fencing a homestead and 27.677 m3 for a large cattle kraal. Villagers also h...

Background Bapedi traditional healers of Blouberg are custodians of indigenous knowledge on medicinal plants of this region. They provide primary health care to a large number of people in the Blouberg area of South Africa. There is concern that this profession is dying out, which may be detrimental to the Blouberg community and to biodiversity conservation in the area. Methods Thirty two healers and 30 community members were interviewed between March 2011 and July 2013 around Blouberg Mountain in the Blouberg Municipality. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to elucidate socio-cultural and demographic variables and healing customs of practicing healers. Attitudes to sustainable management of medicinal plants were captured. A second semi-structured questionnaire was used to gather information on community members’ views of traditional healers and their practices. Results Sixty seven percent of interviewed community members visited traditional healers. Female traditional healers dominated (80%) the profession. Sixty four percent of the healers have no formal education, with only 4% having secondary school education. Seventy nine percent of healers see between 15 and 20 patients per month. Clinics and a hospital in the vicinity have resulted in a shift by the community from using tradition-based healing to that of allopathic health care. Most interviewed traditional healers (71%) are in favour of conservation actions to prevent over-harvesting, as 86% believe that indiscriminate collecting is compromising the flora of the area. Most (93%) are willing to use cultivated plants. Conclusions State health care has negatively influenced the practice of traditional healing as patients now first consult government health centres before turning to traditional healers. In the past, traditional healing has been ignored because, as an oral history, it could not be included in school curricula or government policy documents. Those traditional healers who learn to write will have the skills to document and safeguard their own knowledge. This can help to prevent the erosion of knowledge around Blouberg’s medicinal plants and support the conservation of natural resources in the area. Adult learning programmes might therefore be worth implementing amongst healers.

The African savannah elephant (Loxodonta africana Blumenbach) is a generalist herbivore that relies on widely distributed resources. Vegetation decline, aggravated by these elephants, can compromise local conservation efforts. Thus it imperative to understand the factors that drive them to consume specific plant species and plant parts. The objective of our study was to investigate the feeding patterns of African savannah elephants in the enclosed bushveld savannah at the Atherstone Collaborative Nature Reserve in South Africa. For 1 year, we examined elephant selection of woody versus herbaceous vegetation, and identified which plant species and parts were preferentially consumed. We accomplished this by directly observing feeding elephants, and by utilizing data collected on elephant footprints, dung piles, stripped bark and broken branches. We further conducted vegetation surveys to determine selection frequency relative to species abundance. Elephants showed a preference for different plant parts consumption in the feeding plots. In total, leaves, branches and bark contributed mostly to their diet. Seasonal selection patterns showed an increasing proportion of bark and branch consumption during the dry season.

Background: Plants used for medicinal purposes are very common feature in Bapedi traditional healer’s home-gardens, but information abouttheir diversity and application is not available.Materials and methods: To investigate medicinal plants found in Bapedi healer’s home-gardens, 51 traditional health practitioners wereinterviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire in 17 municipalities of the Limpopo Province of South Africa, during the first half of 2013.Results: A total of 43 plant species (67.4% indigenous and 32.5% exotics) from 32 families, mostly from the Asteraceae and Apocynaceae (9.3%each) were documented. Species cultivated in home-gardens were used to treat three major groups of ailments that include sexually transmittedinfections (44.1%), chronic diseases of life style (44.1%) and reproductive ailments (32.5%). The exotics Catharanthus roseus (54.9%) andCarica papaya (15.6%) was the most cultivated. Threatened (11.6%) and protected (6.9%) species are also present in home-gardens, mostly dueto their unavailability in natural areas.Conclusion: This study concludes that the practice of cultivating medicinal plant species in home-gardens is a positive development that in thelong term will sustain both species and accompanying indigenous knowledge, as well as preserve the cultural identity of the Bapedi.Key words: Bapedi, traditional healers, home-gardens, herbal medicines.

The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among female adolescents is a global health problem. In developing countries such as South Africa, this increase is often associated with urbanisation and the adoption of a Western lifestyle. Two aspects of the Western lifestyle that contribute to the development of overweight and obesity are a decrease in physical activity levels and an increase in the consumption of energy-dense food, high in fats and refined sugar. Information on the prevalence of increased body fatness in populations in transition is scarce, but necessary for effective planning and intervention. Current indications are that there is a trend towards unhealthy behaviour among high-school girls, globally and in South Africa. Schools can play an important role in the prevention of overweight and obesity among schoolgirls. It is recommended that school governing bodies institute remedial action to prevent weight gain in children, especially girls.

Information is provided on the interaction of the Vatsonga people with their immediate surrounding mopane woodland, and in particular the utilisation of Colophospermum mopane (Kirk ex Benth.) Kirk ex J. Leon, for firewood, building material and medicine. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with both villagers and traditional healers in the Giyani and Phalaborwa regions. Mopane is used extensively for firewood and also as building material (poles) in constructing traditional huts, kraals, fences, grain stores and chicken pens. Less common uses were also documented. It is utilised medicinally by traditional healers in treating stomach ache, gout, diarrhoea, tooth ache and menstrual pain. Veterinary uses are also reported, but do not appear to be commonly practised. Data on the preparation methods of medicine were obtained from both villagers and traditional healers. Results also revealed that pertinent ethnobotanical information is not conveyed from elderly people to younger generations, resulting in a need for educating younger people on mopane's importance and management.

This study focussed on the uses of Colophospermum mopane (mopane) by the Vhavenda. Four villages in four districts were sampled with approximately 10 people per village interviewed in a structured and semi-structured exchange. Known uses include using mopane for timber (in building walls and roofs of traditional huts), for firewood and in making rope. New uses include both novel applications such as poles for carports, washing lines and cattle yokes as well as medicinal uses, such as in the treatment of chaffing of the inner thighs, stomach pains, kidney stones etc. Known uses were quantified for the first time.