Abstract

One of the three known remnant populations of the rare Prunus africana is found in Nyanga National Park. The objective of this study was to use adaptive cluster sampling and a rapid ecological assessment to collect information on the abundance, regeneration, habitat characteristics and threat factors of P. africana which is important in the conservation of the species. A total of 89 P. africana trees in 12 clusters were found mainly in sub-montane forests, between 1716 to 1888 m.a.s.l. The major threats were invasive spp. and wild fires. All invaded clusters recorded no seedlings while 3 of the 5 non-invaded clusters recorded a total of 64 seedlings.

Key words: Threat factors, habitat characteristics, species association, regeneration, Prunus africana, invasive species, Nyanga National Park.