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Title
The significance of human induced and natural erosion features (lavakas) on the central highlands of Madagascar |
Full text
http://ajol.info/index.php/mcd/article/view/48652 |
Date
2009 |
Author(s)
MS Zavada; Y Wang; G Rambolamanana; A Raveloson; H Razanatsoa |
Abstract
Massive hill slope erosion in Madagascar is represented by the widespread gullies called 'lavaka'. Lavakas may be result of natural processes that involves a combination of continuous tectonic uplift that maintains a high angle of repose, ground water sapping at the soil - saprolite interface, and subsequent collapse of the soil surface due to low grade seismic activity in the central highlands. Forest cover ranges between 25 - 45 % in the study area and is primarily restricted to riparian and lavaka habitats. Development of forest cover associated with riparian and lavaka habitats may be due to increased soil moisture, exposure of a less nutrient poor saprolite and/or soil compaction. In addition, riparian and lavaka habitats harbor a significantly higher diversity of plant species than the surrounding grasslands. Lavakas may be a result of natural processes and may play a role in the development of Madagascar's landscape evolution. |
Language
en |
Publisher
Madagascar Wildlife Conservation/JGI Switzerland |
Type of publication
Peer-reviewed Article |
Format
application/pdf |
Source
Madagascar Conservation & Development; Vol 4, No 2 (2009) |
Rights
Copyright is owned by Madagascar Wildlife Conservation/JGI Switzerland |
Repository
Africa - African Journals OnLine (AJOL)
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