The first day of the Savanna Science Network reinforced the collaborative, skills-transfer and capacitation model applied over the years, with young scientists presenting alongside global experts.

Taking place at the Nombolo Mdhuli Conference Centre in the Kruger National Park (KNP) from March 2 to 5, this year’s gathering carries special significance as it coincides with the park’s centenary, celebrating 100 years of formal conservation.

According to SANParks spokesperson JP Louw, the subjects explored through scientific papers underscored the growing challenges facing savanna biodiversity, from climate impacts to landscape-scale ecological dynamics.

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“Within this context, issues discussed include the evolution and management of savanna ecology over the past 20 years; findings from long-term monitoring programmes, including vegetation change, herbivore dynamics and predator-prey interactions; invasive alien plant and aquatic species, including the management of plant invaders in river systems using biological control agents and other methods; and, understanding biodiversity change over time by examining the role of large herbivores such as elephants and rhinos as ecosystem engineers, and how other species such as birds, insects and bats respond to these ecosystem changes,” he said.

Louw added that this annual gathering brings together more than 200 leading scientists, researchers, conservationists and policymakers from around the world to advance critical research and dialogue on savanna ecosystems.