Figure 9.10: Mountain Fynbos found in Hermanus, Western Cape.The flora of the fynbos has a high degree ofendemism. This is the ecological state of being
specific to a geographic location such as an island, country or in this case, a defined biome
such as the fynbos.
Fire is a necessary stage in the life-cycle of nearly all fynbos plants, and is common during
the dry summer months. Many of the seeds germinate only after the intense heat of a fire.
As proteas ’prepare’ for the fire, they retain their seeds on the bush for at least a year, a habit
known asserotiny.
Figure 9.11: Fynbos in Cape Peninsula.The lowlands of the fynbos have been developed for agriculture and wine farming. Due to
this, various species of fynbos have been threatened. For this reason, the fynbos region must
be protected and preserved. It is a major tourist destination.
Project: Discovering fynbos in South AfricaThe astonishing richness and diversity of the Western Cape’s natural resources is matched
only by the resourcefulness and diversity of its many people. Historical patterns of unsustain-
able use of resources have led to the Cape Floristic Region (CFR) being listed as one of the
world’s threatened bioregions, and the scars are deeply etched in the land and its people.Western Cape residents are exploring new and sustainable ways to value and benefit from
these globally important assets.South Africa’s Cape Floristic region is legendary, and the unique nature of thefynbosbiome
has been celebrated by biologists, conservationists, development experts, and ecologist
worldwide.(Adapted from speech by Tasneem Essop the Western Cape Provincial Minister for Environ-
ment, Planning and Economic Development)Write an essay on the“Fynbos”biome and discuss the following aspects.- What is the meaning of the term “fynbos”?
- Identify features of families/indicator species that make up this vegetation type
Chapter 9. Biospheres to ecosystems 265