Late Holocene wetland transgression and 500 years of vegetation and fire variability in the semi-arid Amboseli landscape, southern Kenya

A 5000-year environmental history of Esambu Swamp, adjacent to Amboseli National Park, reveals significant shifts in ecosystem composition driven by climatic changes, fire activity, and human influence. The study highlights a wetland transgression occurring between 3800 and 500 years ago, with notable transformations in the last five centuries linked to increased biomass burning coinciding with the arrival of Maa-speaking pastoralists and the intensification of the ivory trade. Pollen data suggest a persistent semi-arid savanna ecosystem prior to 3800 cal year BP, while palustrine peaty sediments accumulated since 400 cal year BP reflect changes in regional moisture budgets. The research provides critical insights into Amboseli's ecosystem history, emphasizing the interplay between natural and anthropogenic drivers of change, which are essential for developing sustainable management practices in this important conservation landscape.

Githumbi, E. N., Courtney Mustaphi, C. J., Yun, K. J., Muiruri, V., Rucina, S. M., & Marchant, R. (2018). Late Holocene wetland transgression and 500 years of vegetation and fire variability in the semi-arid Amboseli landscape, southern Kenya. Ambio, 47(6), 682–696. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13280-018-1014-2