Characteristics:
1. Climate: Northern guinea savanna experiences a tropical wet-and-dry climate with distinct seasons. The wet season typically lasts from April to October, bringing abundant rainfall, while the dry season occurs from November to March, characterized by reduced precipitation.
2. Vegetation: The savanna is dominated by tall grasses, interspersed with scattered trees and shrubs. The grasses can grow up to several meters in height, forming a continuous layer of vegetation. Common tree species include Acacia, Baobab, and Shea trees.
3. Wildlife: The northern guinea savanna is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Large mammals such as elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes can be found in these savannas. Other wildlife includes monkeys, hyenas, leopards, and various bird species.
4. Soil: The soils of the northern guinea savanna are generally fertile and well-drained. They are often composed of a mixture of sand, clay, and organic matter, supporting various agricultural activities.
5. Human Activities: The northern guinea savanna is densely populated and has been extensively used for agriculture. Crops such as cotton, peanuts, and grains are widely cultivated. Cattle ranching and subsistence farming are also practiced.
Locations:
The northern guinea savanna is found in several regions across Africa, including:
1. West Africa: The northern guinea savanna stretches from Senegal in the west to Nigeria in the east, encompassing Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and northern Ghana and Ivory Coast.
2. East Africa: The northern guinea savanna is present in parts of Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. It extends from the Ethiopian Highlands in the north to the shores of Lake Victoria and further southwards into central Tanzania.
3. Southern Africa: The northern guinea savanna can be found in northern Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique, transitioning into the miombo woodlands further inland.
These regions share similar climatic conditions and vegetation characteristics, making them distinct ecoregions within the broader tropical savanna biome of Africa.
