Assessing structure, spatial patterning, and size class distribution of miombo woodland species along a precipitation gradient

Abstract

• Miombo trees were larger in the high rainfall region compared with low rainfall areas. regions. • Size class distributions exhibited distinct patterns, with relative frequency varying among diameter classes. • The univariate analysis confirmed aggregation at small spatial scales across sites. • Nearest neighbour analysis confirmed the existence of competition at all sites. Our study investigates the intricate ecological mechanisms shaping miombo woodlands across a rainfall gradient in Zimbabwe. We comprehensively analysed vegetation structure, tree morphology, and spatial patterning across three distinct ecological regions characterized by varying mean annual precipitation (MAP). Results reveal that taller and larger trees are prevalent in the more humid site, while higher tree density is observed in the drier site. The spatial analysis highlights a significant aggregation of adult miombo species across all sites, with juveniles exhibiting a propensity to cluster around adult trees. These findings underscore the pivotal role of ecological gradients, such as precipitation, in shaping miombo woodland structure. However, the absence of clear spatial patterns across the rainfall gradient suggests that precipitation may have less influence on the spatial distribution of miombo trees. Understanding these complex ecological dynamics is essential for developing targeted conservation and management strategies that align with the unique attributes of miombo woodlands, critical ecosystems within the African landscape particularly vulnerable to global climate change.