Colophospermum mopane is a characteristic tree species indigenous to Southern
Africa, where it forms ‘mopane vegetation.’ Mopane plays an important role in livestock
farming, and the physiognomy of mopane influences the availability of feed. This study clarified
the relationship between the difference in mopane physiognomy and the browsing activity
of goats with reference to geomorphology. The physiognomy of mopane corresponded to
geomorphological characteristics of surface structures and soil layer thickness. Consequently,
the landscape based on the physiognomy of mopane was more diverse in the mountainous
study area. Short, multi-stemmed mopane dominated the pediment and crest surface, while
tall, single-stemmed mopane trees dominated the flood plain and ephemeral river bed. We determined
that people recognize the differences in vegetation and geomorphology and use this
knowledge to ensure good browsing for their goats. Most browsing occurred on pediment,
where many short, multi-stemmed mopane plants, an important browsing resource for goats,
can be found. The physiognomy of mopane at the study site corresponded to geomorphology
and was related to browsing activity.