Effect of soil type on spatial distribution and nutritive value of grass species growing in selected rangelands of South Africa

The distribution and status of grass species is essential for sustainable management rangelands. Therefore, this study assessed the spatial nutritive value as influenced by soil type in selected rangelands North West province South Africa. Grass were harvested from four communal areas (clay loam red brown sand types) using three transects per area. Each transect was sub-divided into near (0.5–0.7 km), middle (0.70–1.4 km) far sub-transects (1.4–2.2 based on distance homesteads. Within each sub-transect, 10 m × homogeneous vegetation units (HVU) marked quadrats (1 m2) randomly placed within HVU to sample grasses. Species composition, abundance, biomass measured. Only 21% grasses identified determined be high grazing value. Aristida more common dominant both types. Eragrostis cylindriflora 2 Hochst. had higher crude protein content highest vitro ruminal dry matter degradability after 24 48 hours. Thus, E. most valuable livestock farming could earmarked rangeland restoration.