Veld

Veld or veldt is a type of wide open rural landscape in Southern Africa. More specifically, it refers to the grassland areas in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and Botswana, including the Savanna regions. The term originates from the Afrikaans word veld, which is derived from the Dutch word veld, meaning 'field'. The veld covers different ecological regions, primarily distinguished into the Highveld, Middleveld, Lowveld, and Bushveld, based on altitude, climate, and vegetation.

Types of Veld

Highveld

The Highveld is a high plateau region of inland South Africa. It is characterized by rolling grasslands and scattered trees, and it is situated at an altitude ranging from approximately 1200 to 1800 meters. The Highveld is known for its significant gold deposits and is also the center of major South African urban areas, including Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Middleveld

The Middleveld is an area that lies between the Highveld and Lowveld, both in terms of altitude and geographical location. It is characterized by mixed grassland and woodland savanna and supports a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Lowveld

The Lowveld is situated at a lower altitude than the Highveld, generally below 800 meters. It is known for its hot, subtropical climate and dense savanna bushveld. The Lowveld is home to the Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves.

Bushveld

The Bushveld refers to the terrain in the Lowveld that is covered in vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and grasses. It is particularly noted for its rich biodiversity and mineral resources, including the Platinum Group Metals.

Flora and Fauna

The veld is home to a wide variety of plant and animal species. The grasslands support numerous grass species, while the savanna regions are dotted with acacia and baobab trees. Wildlife is abundant and includes species such as lions, elephants, cheetahs, and rhinoceroses, making the veld a critical area for conservation efforts in Southern Africa.

Conservation

Conservation efforts in the veld are focused on protecting its unique biodiversity and managing the sustainable use of its natural resources. National parks and reserves, such as the Kruger National Park, play a vital role in these conservation efforts.

Human Impact

Human activities, including agriculture, urban development, and mining, have significantly impacted the veld. These activities have led to habitat loss, pollution, and a decline in biodiversity. Efforts are being made to mitigate these impacts through sustainable land management practices and environmental protection policies.

See Also

• Savanna
• Kruger National Park
• Conservation in South Africa
• Wildlife of South Africa