Floristic survey fo the kenyatta University nature reserve.

Abstract

This study covers both taxonomic and ecological aspects of the flora of the Kenyatta University Nature Reserve. The general climatic, physical and ecological conditions were examined and a map of physical features was drawn. A literature survey was conducted in order to determine as far as possible the nature of the original indigenous vegetation.

A checklist, identification key and description of the plants were made. Reference was made on literature to determine the economic value and distribution of the species in Kenya. The vegetation types of the reserve were classified using data obtained with the Braun-Blanquet cover scale and the two-way indicator species analysis (TWINSPAN). The analysis resulted in the identification of two major vegetation types, namely Lantana camara-Ipomoea cairica-Vernonia Campanea at the valley bottom and Themeda triandra-Hyperthelia dissoluta-panicum maximum in the grassland habitat each with several sub-types. The diverse influence of soil type, which is as a result of geology and topography, and previous land use, have resulted in a heterogeneous mosaic of vegetation map is presented.

The phonology of a number of forest, shrubs and trees was studied over a period of twelve months and it was found wet season. Most shrubs and trees commenced flowering during the dry season. Investigations on the general pollination biology of some species were made. Emphasis was on variation in anthesis and pollinating agents, and particularly animals’ visitors.

This study has produced, for the first time, a detailed account of the vegetation in the Nature Reserve and this will be of great value to those using the reserve for teaching and research in the future. It is recommended that efforts should be made to safeguard the survival of both indigenous flora and fauna, and that the reserve be included in the list of international sites for ecological and taxonomic research.