By teledetection, different types of temporary wetlands in the western Cape region will first be characterised (UGent) as a base for the study of their hydrology and ecology. On the basis of a digital terrain model and a hydrological model, run-off and interaction with the groundwater dynamics of the selected systems will next be detennined (VUB). By studying diversity and distribution patterns of important representatives of plants (UA) and invertebrates (KUL) in relation with the hydrology of the selected habitats it is finally the intention to reveal any association between community structure on the one hand and hydrology-related variables on the other (all groups). Together with the quantitative genetic study of the life history characters of selected flagship species (large branchiopods), this will allow us to study the evolutionary flexibility of species under time pressure and to model the expected distribution of species considering various scenarios of hydrological changes of the habitats. The Department of Water Affairs and Forestry (OW AF) will ultimately use these data to support the implementation of the legal principles stated in the National Water Act (1998) for the sustainable use of water in the region.
