The Significance of Elephants In the Ecosystem
Africa offers a variety of experience, from spectacular sights to unique and iconic wildlife—like the big 5: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and Cape buffalos. However, peaceful coexistence of wildlife and human beings has been very difficult to achieve. Today, wildlife enthusiast Tatiana Regan explains why we need elephants. Forest elephants are crucial for seed dispersion around Africa’s ecosystem. Their manure serves as perfect fertilizers for trees and is an essential ingredient for the forest. By excreting, they spread and redistribute nutrients, like nitrogen and sodium. Moreover, their digestive tract helps the germination and the growth rate of seedlings. Walking around, breaking limbs, peeling bark, and stomping saplings are some of the simple tasks of forest elephants that help shape the forest canopy. By clearing the underwood, large trees can spread roots and grow tall. Without this activity, trees will compete for light and soil. Greater competition ca...