The dominance of Colophospermum mopane in an arid savanna: An analysis of life history strategy

Colophospermum mopane seems to dominate wherever it is found. We examined the life history strategy of C. mopane in an arid savanna that leads to its dominance, specifically, its herbivore defense strategies, its mechanisms to cope with fire, and its competitive ability. We also examined possible trade-offs in its ability to establish and colonize an area. Our results indicate that where C. mopane dominates, there is a drop in non-mopane species richness and biomass. Both tree and shrub forms of C. mopane occur in higher biomass in deep red Kalahari sands. There is an inverse relationship regarding biomass and soil depth for other species co-occuring with C. mopane. Our results indicate that C. mopane can attribute its dominance to its herbivore defenses, ability to cope with fire, and resource utilization.