Floristic diversity at Kolomela mine on the Ghaap Plateau, Postmasburg, Northern Cape Province

As part of a collaborative long-term biodiversity monitoring programme initiated by Kolomela mine (Kumba Iron Ore) with the National Museum (Bloemfontein) and the University of the Free State (Bloemfontein) a plant species list was compiled for Kolomela mine’s property on the Ghaap Plateau. This is the first comprehensive plant species list for this part of the Ghaap Plateau. Kolomela mine is situated west of Postmasburg in the Northern Cape Province, South Africa.

A total of 573 plant species, representing 81 families and 311 genera, were recorded. Four pteridophyte (ferns) taxa, 164 monocotyledons and 438 dicotyledons were collected. Three species are nationally protected (TOPS), three are specially protected in the Northern Cape, and 76 are protected in the province.

Fifty-four species are endemic to South Africa and an additional 14 are endemic to the Northern Cape. Seven species that are regarded as encroachers were collected and 30 alien invasive species recorded. Based on the diversity of plant species found, it is evident that the area is botanically important.

It is also clear that by conserving the non-mining areas on its property, Kolomela mine can contribute towards the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) by conserving and sustainably managing this part of the Ghaap Plateau. (Ghaap Plateau, plant diversity, endemic, Kumba Iron Ore, Anglo American)