Description of the Karoo Biome project

Abstract

The ecological characteristics and ecological problems of the karoo biome are briefly described. A conceptual basis and guidelines for the development of the Karoo Biome Project are outlined by addressing project goals, project structure and research strategy, relevant research fields and key questions. No attempt was made to formally phase the Project. It is hoped to stimulate research concurrently in a variety of fields and at different levels as dictated by research priorities and manpower availability. An analysis of existing research projects in relation to research fields and key questions indicates that studies are urgently required on the adaptive physiology, behaviour, and reproductive biology of selected species and growth forms in relation to various climatic and defoliation regimes. Without these data it will not be possible to develop community and ecosystem models of meaningfully accurate predictive power