The grass family, known as Poaceae, is probably the most important plant family on earth. Grasses were the first food plants to be cultivated by man. Grass crops, such as maize, wheat, rice and sugarcane are still our most important food source to farm animals and the large herds of grazing animals in the wild. The identification of grasses becomes important during land management as the various grass species differ in their grazing value and other ecological functions. Furthermore, weedy grasses react differently to different herbicides and therefore need to be correctly identified. This title, Guide to grasses of southern Africa, is the most comprehensive colour identification guide to the common grasses of southern Africa and includes, among others, the following features: descriptions and illustrations of the 320 most important grasses in southern Africa, an easy-to-use grass identification key, more than 1 000 excellent photographs in full colour, thirteen short, fully illustrated introductory chapters with general information on grasses, common names of grasses in indigenous languages, icons that enable the reader to obtain certain information at a glance.

Grasses were the first plants to be cultivated by man for food and are still the most important food crop. Grass also plays a vital role in the ecology in terms of food for animals and protecting the soil from erosion. "Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa" is the only full color guide to the common grasses of southern Africa and includes descriptions of the 320 most important grasses in southern Africa. Other features are: an easy-to-use grass identification key, more than 1000 excellent color photographs and a series of icons that enable the reader to obtain key information at a glance.

About the Author
Frits van Oudtshoorn - His interest in grasses, and nature in general, started at an early age on the farm where he grew up. Currently he manages a training company called Africa Land-Use Training and is involved in facilitating various short courses in the field of agriculture and environment of natural resources and holds a masters degree in nature conservation.


Book Information
ISBN 9781920217358
Author Frits van Oudtshoorn
Format Paperback
Page Count 288
Imprint Briza
Publisher Briza
Weight(grams) 795g
Dimensions(mm) 240mm * 170mm * 15mm