My project investigates the role of African elephants and Olive baboons in the seed dispersal of
invasive Opuntia species within the Ewaso ecosystem . Invasive Opuntia, particularly Opuntia stricta and Opuntia engelmannii, have increasingly spread across rangelands and wildlife habitats, threatening biodiversity, reducing grazing land, and affecting both wildlife and local communities. Understanding how wildlife contributes to the spread of these invasive plants is essential for developing effective management and conservation strategies.
The study focuses on how two key wildlife species, African elephant and Olive baboon consume and disperse Opuntia seeds through dung. Specifically, the research examines seed prevalence in dung samples, the effects of gut passage on seed physical condition and the germination success of seeds after dispersal. By comparing the two dispersers and the two Opuntia species, the project seeks to understand whether these animals facilitate or limit the invasion process.
The project combines wildlife ecology, invasive species management, and conservation science to address a growing environmental challenge in the region. One major highlight of the study is the discovery that elephants and baboons influence Opuntia seeds differently. Another important achievement has been the successful integration of field ecology and quantitative
analysis. The project applies statistical modelling to evaluate seed survival and germination patterns, helping to generate evidence-based conclusions relevant to conservation management. The research also contributes to broader discussions on the dual ecological role of megaherbivores such as elephants, which can simultaneously support ecosystem functioning while unintentionally promoting invasive plant spread.
Ultimately, this project aims to inform invasive species management and wildlife conservation
policies in Kenya and beyond. By understanding the mechanisms through which wildlife disperses invasive plants, conservation managers can design more targeted strategies to control Opuntia spread while maintaining healthy wildlife populations and ecosystem balance.
