Ecological assessment of the influence of anthropogenic activities on the Palala River

This study aims to assess the influence of (historic) agriculture and rural settlements, as well as conservation efforts, on the chemical and physical status of the Palala river from its source to where it pours into the Limpopo River. This is done by performing biological and chemical assessments of the river at multiple sites. About 38 kilometers of the Palala river runs through Lapalala Wilderness Nature Reserve. Longitudinal trends in macroinvertebrate community structures are studied using a river health program approach. The effects of turbidity, flow velocity and water depth on macroinvertebrate diversity, abundance and richness is also assessed, as well as the chemical composition of the water at every site. This study will provide valuable information and help Lapalala in making informed decisions on mitigation efforts to minimize negative river impact.

Collaborator: University of South Africa (UNISA)