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The Okavango Swamp
provides an oasis of water and nutrients for an
immense number of flora and fauna. With its abundant islands
and
lagoons, open channels and reed beds, there are several micro
ecosystems to support a variety of woody and herbaceous vegetation..
The islands usually are dominated by trees, savanna grasss,
and
scrub/shrub vegetation; while the lagoons, ponds, and open channels are
dominated by reeds, papyrus and lilies in a myriad of colors.
Although it may seem that the swamp is papyrus-choked swamp
dotted with palm islands, but the hydrography is more complex--there
are areas of deeper and faster-flowing river channels and serene open
areas of calmer water. |
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While it may seem that the
vegetation is extensive, the wildlife tend to be more abundant and more
diverse due to the topography and diversity of the landscape.
The
open channels and pools of water support an abundance of fish,
reptiles, amphibians and some water-bound mammals; while the islands
are more dominated by mammals, including antelope, large cats, the dog
family, and large mammals such as elephants and hippopotamus.
Not
to mention that the swamp supports more than 400 species of birds. |
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