Workpackages of Subproject E11

Workpackage WP11.1

Seed dispersal and regeneration along a disturbance gradient

Short description: Consequences of fragmentation for dispersal and regeneration processes (visitor and disperser diversity, for dispersal rate, seed and seedling predation and plant recruitment) of bird-dispersed trees is studied exemplary in the selected tree species F. thonningii and P. africana comparatively in the continuous forest of Kakamega and its peripheral fragments, and at different sites along a disturbance gradient.

Workpackage WP11.2

Genetic variability of the endangered medicinal tree P. africana as an indicator system for human disturbance

Short description: Consequences of forest fragmentation and disturbance are investigated for the genetic variability of populations and on gene flow through pollination and seed dispersal of the tree P. africana using microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs). These investigation are carried out on the adult tree population level as well as on the seedling level.

Workpackage WP11.3

A landscape approach to seed dispersal: remnant trees in pastures as stepping stones

Short description: Remnant trees left standing in pastures after forest clearance might attract seed dispersers, e.g. birds and bats depositing seeds, leading to increased seed arrival under their canopies. We investigate the importance of isolated fruiting trees in farmland adjacent to Kakamega Forest as fruit resources for frugivorous animals (birds, bats, monkeys) and as regeneration centres for forest recovery.

Workpackage WP11.4

Regeneration dynamics of plantations and potential for forest restoration

Short description: The the regeneration dynamics and restoration potential of recovering secondary forest, especially of Guava thicket in formerly logged areas, and of both, exotic and indigenous plantations will be studied in Kakamega Forest. Besides providing wood for local communities, Guava trees as well as trees in plantations might facilitate forest regeneration, e.g. by providing food or perches to animal dispersers. They might attract animals for the deposition of seeds, thereby contributing to forest regeneration.

Workpackage WP11.5

A three-year bird monitoring program in Kakamega within the IBA-framework of BIRDLIFE International

Short description: Kakamega Forest has been identified as a globally important site for biodiversity conservation and is listed as one of Kenya's 60 "Important bird areas". Due to its special status as only rainforest in Kenya and due to its high threat basic monitoring of biodiversity changes are vital. We aim at the support of a community-based long-term bird monitoring program in Kakamega Forest in a joint venture with NATURE Kenya and BIRDLIFE International.