222
J. U. Kitheka et al.
Fig. 1 The Nyando River Basin in Kenya
highest annual temperatures, ranging from 27 °C to 32 °C, are recorded in August
and September. The monthly mean evaporation ranges from 1300 to 2200 mm.
2.3 Vegetation Cover
Vegetation cover in the Nyando River Basin also shows significant spatial variation; the influence of altitude is predominant in determining vegetation types. In the
highlands, vegetation consists of evergreen broadleaf forest, and there are also many
tea plantations, on both large- and small-scale farms. Large areas are covered with
plantation forests, especially Pinus patula and Cupressus lustanica. Eucalyptus trees
have also been planted, especially on tea estates. The lowland areas are covered with
grasslands and scattered acacia trees.
J. U. Kitheka et al.
Fig. 1 The Nyando River Basin in Kenya
highest annual temperatures, ranging from 27 °C to 32 °C, are recorded in August
and September. The monthly mean evaporation ranges from 1300 to 2200 mm.
2.3 Vegetation Cover
Vegetation cover in the Nyando River Basin also shows significant spatial variation; the influence of altitude is predominant in determining vegetation types. In the
highlands, vegetation consists of evergreen broadleaf forest, and there are also many
tea plantations, on both large- and small-scale farms. Large areas are covered with
plantation forests, especially Pinus patula and Cupressus lustanica. Eucalyptus trees
have also been planted, especially on tea estates. The lowland areas are covered with
grasslands and scattered acacia trees.