Palynological evidence for vegetation patterns in the Transvaal (South Africa) during the late Pleistocene and Holocene

Palynological evidence relating to the nature of Late Quaternary vegetation types and plant migrations in the Transvaal is briefly summarized. It is suggested that, after an early temperate, relatively moist phase and a subsequent relatively dry phase lasting until about 25 000 yr B.P., a vegetation...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Author: L. Scott
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: South African National Biodiversity Institut 1983-11-01
Series:Bothalia: African Biodiversity & Conservation
Online Access:https://abcjournal.org/index.php/abc/article/view/1191
Description
Summary:Palynological evidence relating to the nature of Late Quaternary vegetation types and plant migrations in the Transvaal is briefly summarized. It is suggested that, after an early temperate, relatively moist phase and a subsequent relatively dry phase lasting until about 25 000 yr B.P., a vegetation-type with ericaceous elements developed. It resembled belts presently occurring above the treeline and was possibly widespread over the plains of the Transvaal during the last glacial maximum period. In the central parts of the province, warm semi-arid savanna subsequently expanded during the early Holocene and was followed by a more broad-leafed type of woodland in the late Holocene. This change probably resulted from slightly wetter and, at times, also slightly warmer and cooler conditions.
ISSN:0006-8241
2311-9284