The impact of elephant density on biodiversity in different eco-climatic zones in Kenya

Abstract

The role of elephant density in the restructing of habitats was studied by comparing data concerned with vegetation and ecological changes and variation in animal populations from areas in three eco-climatic zones in Kenya as represented by areas in Aberdares and Tsavo National Parks and the Laikipia Plateau. Results indicated that elephants have a strong habitat modifying role and their presence at appropriate densities could be used to enhance biological diversity. Assessment includes trends in changes in tree and shrub height, density and biomass, seed dispersal and mammal species