TETE IRON ORE PROJECT

ICHTHYOLOGY AND BASELINE AQUATIC HABITAT STUDY

Prepared for: Prepared by:

ANTON BOK AQUATIC CONSULTANTS

Trading as ANTON BOK & ASSOCIATES

Capitol Resources Limitada (A member of Anton Bok Aquatic Consultants cc the Baobab Group)

Rua Fernão Melo e Castro 261 5 Young Lane, Mill Park, Bairro da Sommerschield Port Elizabeth 6001 Maputo Tel.: 041 3733464 Moçambique E-MAIL: [email protected] & South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity Private Bag 1015 Grahamstown 6140

APRIL 2015

Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Objectives and Terms of Reference

The primary objective of the present study is to undertake baseline studies to assess the habitat integrity of the aquatic habitats potentially impacted by the proposed Tete Iron Project and to determine the fish species present, particularly the presence of IUCN Red Data listed species. This information is used to determine and assess the potential impacts of the mining venture on aquatic biota, particularly fish, and to propose reasonable mitigation measures to reduce impacts to acceptable levels.

The Study Area

The main surface water-body of concern is the Revuboe River, which runs from north to south through the center of the ore deposits, and thus could potentially be impacted by any contaminated run-off from the mine site. This large perennial tributary of the Zambezi River, with a MAR of approximately 1000 million m3 per annum, is also a potential supply of water for mining operations. The smaller, seasonal Nhambia River is located immediately downslope of the Project Area and could also be potentially impacted by mining operations. No river diversions are anticipated during this initial phase of the project.

In addition, the proposed new haul road to be constructed from the mine to the railway line at Moatize will require a bridge or causeway over the perennial Ncondezi River and will also cross a number of smaller rivers and streams, including the seasonal Moatize and Modizo Rivers in the south-east. These road crossings over the various watercourses will require environmentally-friendly designs and construction protocols to prevent ecological damage, including the blocking of natural fish migrations within these perennial and seasonal rivers.

Methods

During the wet season field trip (March 2013) eight sampling sites were surveyed for fish using a variety of fishing gear including and electro-fisher, gill nets, seine nets and fyke nets, as well as a variety of dip-nets. Sampling areas included five sites on the larger Revuboe River, which were surveyed by boat and three sites surveyed on the Nhambia River system. The two northern sites on the Revuboe River are considered upstream of the area of influence of the mine and could therefore serve as future reference sites for comparison with sites impacted by the mine. The Ncondezi River was inaccessible during the wet season and was not sampled at this time. During the dry season field trip (September 2013) the lack of a suitable boat and presence of large crocodiles restricted sampling to 2 sites in the Revuboe, while the absence surface water did not allow sampling in the seasonal Nhambia River and tributaries. Three sites in the perennial Ncondezi River, located along the proposed haul road routes to Moatiz, were sampled near the proposed crossings. The seasonal Moatize and Modizo rivers along the proposed haul road route, were not sampled at this time.

The most appropriate fishing gear used depended on the available aquatic habitats and conditions. The presence of large crocodiles in the Revuboe River restricted fishing activities, but appropriate gear (gill nets, fyke nets and long-lines) were used effectively using a small boat. An electro-fisher and small seine nets and dip-nets were used in the smaller and shallower Nhambia and Ncondezi rivers and tributaries.

The habitat preferences and requirements of the various fish species captured, as well as their sensitivity to environmental changes, were obtained from the literature (e.g. Skelton et al.2001; IUCN 2012) and expert knowledge. This information, together with the field data on the present

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd i Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 aquatic habitat integrity within the Study Area, was used to assess potential impacts of the mining venture on the fish species found within the affected rivers. Results and Discussion

Habitat Integrity or Present Ecological Status

Both the in-stream and riparian habitat integrity of the Revuboe River and Ncondezi River in the Study Area are considered largely unmodified with the ecosystem functioning being essentially unchanged compared to the undisturbed state. The destruction and clearing of woody riparian vegetation for agriculture, however, is considered to have limited negative impacts in terms of increased sediment input and elevated turbidity. The dense reed (Phragmites sp.) beds in the backwaters and margins of the Revuboe River may be partly due to the destruction of the riparian trees. These reed beds trap sediments, exacerbating the problem of channel siltation and the loss of important in-stream habitat diversity. Fish species captured

A total of 25 fish species were captured in the Study Area, of which only one species, namely the Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), is categorized in the IUCN Red Data listings (IUCN 2012) as near threatened (NT). However, two fish species captured in the rapid and riffle habitat in fast-flowing water in the Ncondezi River (Chiloglanis cf. neumanni and Zaireichthys cf. monomotopa) both belong to species complexes with uncertain taxonomic affinities and are categorised as data deficient (DD) by the IUCN. These two species should be considered of special concern until further data on the distribution and conservation status are available. The remaining 23 species are all classified as being of Least Concern (LC).

Tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) were captured at four of the five sites in the Revuboe River and is considered an indicator of good quality water. Although not considered threatened due to its wide distribution in southern Africa, some populations of this species have declined due to habitat destruction, pollution and overfishing. Due to its value as are a potential indicator species as well as angling properties, tigerfish warrant close attention in the Study Area. Fish Utilisation by Local Communities

All fish species of all sizes appear to be captured for domestic consumption by local villagers when available. Although hook and line fishing is carried out, fish are mainly captured using fish fences, seine and gill nets. Although this fish resource appears relatively small, it is thought to form an important source of protein in the diet of local villagers living near the rivers. However, the socio-economic importance of this fish resource for the broader community in the Study Area may be limited. This issue is reported upon elsewhere in the social impact assessment report.

Assessment of Potential Mining Impacts

A summary of the five main potential impacts (or issues) identified and assessed both with and without mitigation is given Table A below.

Table A: Summary of the assessment of mining impacts on the surface waters. (C =; Construction; O = Operation; D = Decommissioning; All = All project phases). Impacts during the design and planning phase were not significant and are not included. All impacts are negative unless listed as positive.

SIGNIFICANCE ISSUE IMPACT Without With mitigation Mitigation

1. Water 1.1 Sedimentation & increased turbidity in rivers (All)) High Moderate

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Quality 1.2 Contamination from non-ore pollutants (C & O) Moderate Low 1.3 Ore-related contamination – AMD (C, O & D) High low

2. Hydrology 2.1 Alternation of river flow dynamics (C & O) Moderate Low

3. 3. Habitat 3.1 Aquatic habitat modification (C & O) High Moderate Modification 3.2 Loss of species of special concern (C & 0) High Moderate 4. Habitat 4.1 Instream structures blocking migrations (C, O & D) High Low Fragmentation 5. Fisheries 5.1 Over-utilization of fish resources (C, O & D) Moderate Low Resource

As can be seen from the above table, the main impacts are related to altering river flow patterns and pollution of surface waters. Pollution could be via contaminated groundwater seeping into the rivers and polluted surface run-off from the mine area, including from the tailings storage facility (TSF) and waste rock dump site entering the adjacent rivers and streams. Although habitat fragmentation due to construction of instream barriers has a high potential impact, this could be readily mitigated by ensuring all instream structures are appropriately located and designed. As expected, the most severe impacts are associated with the construction and operational phases.

Mitigation and Recommendations

As shown in Table A, all of the potential mining-related impacts can be adequately mitigated to acceptably low levels by adopting appropriate best-practice management protocols that are strictly regulated according to comprehensive construction and operational environmental management plans (EMPs). It is critical that there is strict adherence to industrial best practice to prevent, or reduce to acceptable levels, all potential water pollution (including acid mine drainage contamination) and elevated sedimentation of rivers due to mining operations. The mitigation measures recommended are given in the main report.

In the event of an impoundment being constructed on the Revuboe River to facilitate water abstraction for mining purposes, additional detailed studies will be required to determine the environmental water requirements (or instream flow requirements) needed in order to sustain adequate aquatic biodiversity within the downstream reaches of the river.

Of general concern related to this project are the indirect environmental impacts associated with the inevitable increase in the local population due to the influx of work-seekers and families to the study area. The environmental degradation, increases fishing pressure and associated loss of biodiversity, including aquatic biodiversity in local rivers, due to this anticipated population explosion, will be difficult to mitigate.

Biodiversity offsets

As an offset to compensate for unavoidable impacts and loss of aquatic biodiversity associated with the proposed Baobab Iron Mine, careful consideration should be given to developing biodiversity offset plans which will set aside selected “no-go” areas and allow for the conservation of vegetation, terrestrial and aquatic fauna that are found within the Study Area.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 Project Description and Objectives of Study...... 1 1.2 Terms of Reference (ToR) ...... 2 1.3 Assumptions and Limitations ...... 2 1.3.1 Restricted Sampling ...... 2 1.3.2 Seasonal Variations ...... 2 2. DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA ...... 1 2.1 Spatial Extent of the Study Area ...... 1 2.2 Rivers in the Study Area ...... 1 2.2.1 Revuboe River ...... 1 2.2.2 Nhambia River ...... 2 2.2.3 Ncondezi River ...... 2 2.3 Previous Studies on Ichthyofauna in the Study Area ...... 2 3. APPROACH AND METHODS ...... 5 3.1 Sampling Areas ...... 5 3.1.1 The Revuboe River ...... 5 3.1.2 The Nhambia River ...... 5 3.1.3 The Ncondezi River...... 6 3.2 Fish Capture Methods ...... 6 3.3 Habitat Integrity or Present Ecological State (PES) ...... 6 4. RESULTS...... 8 4.1 Habitat Integrity (or Present Ecological State) ...... 8 4.2 Fish Catch Data ...... 8 4.3 Fish Resource Utilization by Local Communities ...... 11 5. DISCUSSION ...... 13 5.1 Fish Biodiversity and Conservation Importance ...... 13 5.2 Habitat Integrity or Present Ecological State ...... 15 5.2.1 Revuboe River ...... 15 5.2.2 Ncondezi River ...... 15 5.3 Key Processes and Risks ...... 16 5.3.1 River Ecosystems ...... 16 5.3.2 River Flow Patterns and Fish Migrations ...... 16 5.3.3 Elevated Sediment Input ...... 16 6. IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS ...... 18 6.1 Existing Aquatic Habitat Integrity ...... 18 6.2 Overview of Mining Impacts ...... 18 6.2.1 Water Quality ...... 18 6.2.2 Hydrology ...... 19 6.2.3 Summary of Mining Impacts ...... 19 6.3 Assessment of Mining Impacts...... 20 6.3.1 Issue 1: Water Quality ...... 20 6.3.2 Issue 2: Hydrology ...... 24 6.3.3 Issue 3: Habitat Modification ...... 25 6.3.4 Issue 4: Aquatic Habitat Fragmentation ...... 27 6.3.5 Issue 5: Fisheries Resource ...... 29 6.3.6 Issue 6: Statement on Cumulative Impacts ...... 30 7. RECOMMENDATIONS ...... 31 7.1 Biodiversity Offsets ...... 31 7.2 Environmental Statement ...... 31 8. REFERENCES ...... 32

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APPENDIX 1 ...... 33 Details of fish sampling sites and fishing effort for the Revuboe, Nhambia (and tributaries) and the Ncondezi rivers during both the wet season (March) and dry season (September) in 2013 surveys of the Tete Iron Project Study Area ...... 33 APPENDIX 2 ...... 45 Photographs of 25 fish species caught in the Tete Iron Project Study Area during the fish surveys 9 - 13 March 2013 and 13 - 17 September 2013...... 45 APPENDIX 3 ...... 49 Habitat Integrity for the Revuboe River within the Tete Iron Project Mining Study Area and the Ncondezi River potentially impacted by the haul road options ...... 49

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1. The various fish sampling sites within and adjacent to the proposed mine site. (Nc = Ncacame River; Tc = Tshissi River; Nh = Nhambia River; Re = Revuboe River; Ncond = Ncondezi River) and the various options for the haul road corridors...... 4

LIST OF TABLES

Table 1. The various fish sampling sites in the Revuboe River, Nhambia River (and tributaries) and the Ncondezi River within the Study Area. The location of the sites are depicted in Figure 1. (u/s = upstream)...... 5 Table 2. A summary of the results of the Habitat Integrity assessment of the affected reach of the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers assessed within the Study Area...... 8 Table 3. A description of the habitat integrity categories (from Kleynhans, 1996)...... 8 Table 4. An annotated list of the 25 fish species (listed alphabetically) collected during the fish surveys in the Study Area at the Baobab Iron Ore Mine in March and September 2013. Fish at 3 sites in the Ncondezi River are combined (Ncond). NE = Not evaluated in IUCN Red List; DD = data deficient, thus IUCN unable to determine conservation status; LC – Least Concern, NT – Near Threatened, as classified in the IUCN Red Data List (IUCN 2010). FL = fork length; SL = standard length; TL = total length...... 9 Table 5. Summary of fish species found or expected in the Study Area sensitive to project-related impacts, particularly by instream barriers to migration. Data mainly from Skelton (2001) and IUCN Red List of Threatened Species...... 13

PLATES

Plate 1. Nhambia R. upstream of Massamba Camp-Tete road crossing on 13/09/13...... 2 Plate 2. Nhambia River at junction with Revuboe R. looking upstream on 15/09/13...... 2 Plate 3. Fish fence set across the lower reaches of the dry Nhambia River bed by local villagers (14/09/13)...... 11 Plate 4. Dug-out canoe with large seine net in Revuboe River used by local fishermen at Site Re 1 (15/09/13)...... 11 Plate 5. Seine net operated by local fishermen in the Revuboe R. at Site Re 1 (15/08/13)………………11 Plate 6. Seine net catch (tilapia species) by local fishermen at Site Re 1 in the Revuboe R. (15/09/13). 11 Plate 7. Local fishermen using a large dip-net in the Ncondezi R. to catch Clarias sp.at Site Ncond 2 (16/09/13)………………………………………………………………………………………………… …11 Plate 8. Young boys and girls using fine-meshed seine nets in the Ncondezi River at site Ncond 2 (16/09/13)...... 11

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1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Project Description and Objectives of Study

A detailed description of the Tete Iron Project is given in the aquatic ecology baseline report which should be consulted for further details. Aspects of relevance to the ichthyofauna and aquatic habitat baseline survey will be discussed in this report.

The Tete Iron Mining Project will initially focus on so-called Massamba Group deposits, located approximately 45 km north-west of Tete, and specifically the Tenge-Rouni deposits in the eastern section of the mining concession area. This area contains magnetite, titanium and vanadium used for the production of pig iron. Open pit mining techniques will be used and after processing on site, the pig iron concentrate will be transported by road to the nearest railway at Moatize, located some 50km south-east of the site. This will require the construction of a dedicated haul road from the mining area to the railway. The iron will then be railed to either the ports of Beira or Nacala for export by ship.

In addition to the open pits, mining infrastructure will include new access roads, power lines, processing facilities, workshops, waste rock dump sites (WRD), tailings storage facilities (TSF), and accommodation camps. No river diversions are anticipated during this initial phase of the project, but earth-fill embankments will probably be constructed on the western bank of the Revuboe River to prevent flood damage to mining operations on the Ruoni deposit. An access corridor towards Moatize to the south-east is proposed where a haul road, future rail and electrical power lines will run alongside each other. Potential alternative routes for the access corridor as well as preferred locations for the mining infrastructure have been proposed. The above features are shown in Figure 1.

Important potential impacts of the proposed Tete Iron Ore mine project on aquatic habitats include altering river flow and pollution of surface waters via the discharge of contaminated groundwater and surface run-off from the mine area into the Revuboe and Nhambia rivers that flow through or in the vicinity of the project area. In terms of potential reduction in river flows due to abstraction for mining purposes, no details are available regarding the source of the approximately 1500 million litres per year of water required for mining operations. This aspect was not thus assessed in this report.

In addition, the haul road (and future railway line) from the mine to the railway line at Moatize will require a bridge over the perennial Ncondezi River and will also cross a number of smaller seasonal rivers (e.g. the Moatize and Modizo rivers) and ephemeral watercourses (at least 10) which will require the construction of bridges, causeways or culverts. These crossings will require environmentally-friendly designs and construction protocols to prevent ecological damage to the aquatic habitats and prevent habitat fragmentation. Bridge or causeway designs should ensure that the natural migrations of fish in the perennial Ncondezi River and seasonal Moatize and Modizo rivers, are not blocked.

A more detailed description of the rivers potentially impacted upon by the mining venture, is given below in Section 2.

The main objective of the present study is therefore to undertake baseline surveys to assess the present ecological state (PES) of the affected watercourses and determine the fish communities present, particularly the presence of Red Data species or fish species of special concern.

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1.2 Terms of Reference (ToR)

The specific ToR for this aquatic study included the following: o Undertake a fish sampling survey of representative aquatic habitats in the rivers within the Study Area using appropriate fishing gear. o Identify fish captured to species level and determine their conservation status with references to the IUCN Red Data List. o Preserve a representative sample of the captured fish in formalin and submit to the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB) in Grahamstown, South Africa to verify species identification and to lodge important specimens in their African fish collection for future reference. o Identify and describe the current impacts, both upstream and within the Project Area, on the aquatic habitats and associated fish species of the Revuboe, Nhambia and Ncondezi rivers. o Assess the potential impacts resulting from all phases of the proposed Tete Iron Project and propose appropriate and feasible mitigation measures.

1.3 Assumptions and Limitations

1.3.1 Restricted Sampling

The presence of large crocodiles in the Revuboe River within the Project Area, which are reported to occasionally attack and kill local villagers when collecting water, washing or fishing in the river, meant that fishing techniques which required wading in the river were considered too dangerous. This includes the use of seine nets and electrofishing in slow backwaters or along the river banks.

The absence of a motorized boat during the dry season survey (September 2013) meant only areas close to the Revuboe River pont crossing point (Revuboe Site 3) could be sampled using a dug-out canoe to lay gill-nets. In addition, gill nets and fyke nets could not be safely left overnight (when most effective) due to the high probability of this equipment being badly damaged or “lost” due to crocodiles attracted by the captured fish. During the first survey during the wet season (March 2013) the perennial Ncondezi River and seasonal Moatize and Modizo rivers could not be sampled as all access roads from the mine were impassable by 4 x 4 vehicle.

1.3.2 Seasonal Variations

The high river levels with fast currents in the main channel of the Revuboe River during the wet season survey in March 2013, also largely restricted sampling to slow-flowing side channels or backwaters away from fast currents. The seasonal Nhambia River and smaller Moatize and Modizo rivers and most tributaries on the other hand, did not have any surface water during the dry season survey in September 2013, thus precluding any fish sampling in these watercourses at this time. No fish sampling was undertaken in the highly seasonal Moatize or Modizo rivers.

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2. DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA

2.1 Spatial Extent of the Study Area

Mining activities could potentially result in both water quality and water quantity changes in the rivers that run through (Revuboe) or immediately downslope (Nhambia) of the Tete Iron Project Area. In addition, pollutants such as heavy metals (e.g. vanadium) or acid mine drainage (if present) could enter drainage lines in these river catchments and be transported downstream, or contaminate groundwater hydraulically connected to adjacent rivers, thus potentially affecting water quality and thus sensitive riverine biota many kilometers away. All the alternative options for the haul roads will require the construction of bridges, causeways and/or culverts over a number of seasonal streams (e.g. Moatize and Modizo), as well as the large perennial Ncondezi River. The potential impacts of the proposed haul road are thus included in this study.

The Study Area in respect to this baseline fish and aquatic habitat survey thus included, a) an 8 km reach on the Revuboe River, from just upstream of the mining Project Area to just downstream of the Project Area, b) sites on the Nhambia River and Ncacame and Tchissi tributaries, lying immediately west and south of the Project Area and c) the perennial Ncondezi River traversed by the proposed haul roads, which joins the Revuboe from the east some 17km downstream of the Project Area.

The various sampling sites in relation to the proposed mining infrastructure and haul road options (1 to 6) are depicted on a Google Earth image of the Study Area – see Figure 1 below and described in Table 1.

2.2 Rivers in the Study Area

2.2.1 Revuboe River

The larger perennial Revuboe River flows from north to south, bisecting the Tenge-Ruoni deposit, and is a potential source of water for mining operations. The smaller seasonal Nhambia River flows from the north-west into the Revuboe River immediately downstream of the mine project area. The Revuboe River continues south, receiving water from a number of tributary streams, including the Ncondezi River, before discharging into the Zambezi River some 65 km downstream.

The entire Revuboe River catchment is 103,450 km2 in size and includes all tributaries north of the Zambezi River, south of the Lake Malawi drainage basin and downstream of Cahora Bassa Dam. The catchment of the Revuboe River upstream of the mine area is about 11,000 km2 while the sub-catchments in which the mine area is located is approximately 187 km2 in size or 1.7% of the total upstream catchment. The mean annual runoff for the Revuboe River, calculated at its junction with the Nhambia River, is approximately 1000 million m3/annum, while the “normal flow” is given as approximately 100 m3/s (Coffey Environments & CES 2012).

In terms of flooding at the mine site, the calculated flood peaks in the Revuboe River are 1,509 m3/s for a 1:2 year flood and 5,620 m3/s for a 50 year flood peak, while the estimated maximum regional flood in the Revuboe River immediately downstream of the Study Area is 10 814 m3/s. (Coffey Environments & CES 2012). The highest mean monthly flows in the Revuboe River occur in February and March following peak periods of rainfall in the catchment and the minimum monthly flows occur at the end of the dry season in October, (Beilfuss 2005, vide EkoInfo cc & Associates 2012).

As the Revuboe River runs from north to south through the middle of the Tenge-Ruoni deposit, it would be exposed to relatively high risks in terms of impacts associated with mining activities.

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The water quality data from the Aquatic Ecology and Surface Water Quality Baseline Study (CES, 2014) did not reveal any sources of pollution upstream of the mine area and revealed a high instream aquatic integrity in terms of aquatic macroinvertebrates. Thus, apart from an elevated sediment load due to poor catchment management, the present water quality in the Revuboe River in the Project Area appears highly suitable for aquatic biota, including all fish species. Photographs of the Revuboe during both the wet and dry seasons are given in Appendix 1.

2.2.2 Nhambia River

The Nhambia River joins the Revuboe River just south of the Mine Project area and has an effective catchment area of 494 km2 and a mean annual runoff of 43.35 million m3/annum. Flow appears to be highly seasonal, with no surface flow during most of the year. When visited during the fish survey in March 2013 (the end of the wet season) the flows in the Revuboe River were high, but there was no surface flow in the Nhambia River at the Massamba Camp- Tete road bridge crossing. During the dry season survey (September 2013) no surface water was seen at either the Massamba-Tete road crossing or in the lower reaches at the junction with the Revuboe River, as shown in Plates 1 & 2 below.

Plate 1. Nhambia R. upstream of Massamba Plate 2. Nhambia River at junction with Camp-Tete road crossing on 13/09/13. Revuboe R. looking upstream on 15/09/13.

There is another seasonal river upstream of the Baobab Tete Iron Ore mine area, namely the Mussumbudze River, which flows into the Revuboe River from the north-west. The Mussumbudze River is not expected to be impacted by mining activities and did not receive any attention in this study.

2.2.3 Ncondezi River

The Ncondezi River arises near the village of Tsangano to the north-east of the Study Area and flows for approximately 100 km before joining the Revuboe River from the east some 17km downstream of the Project Area. This perennial tributary of the Revuboe, which has a wide, sandy river bed, was flowing strongly when visited during the dry season in September 2013 (see photographs of the three sampling sites in Appendix 1). No hydrological data on the Ncondezi River were available to the authors at the time of writing this report.

2.3 Previous Studies on Ichthyofauna in the Study Area

The authors are not aware of any previous fish field surveys that have being undertaken in the Study Area. The desktop study of fish species in the Project Area which formed part of the initial environmental scoping assessment for Tete Iron Ore Project (EcoInfo 2012), estimated

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 2 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 that 22 fish species are expected to occur in the area. The potential species present and the species captured during the present study are presented below in Table 4 (Section 4.2) and Table 5 (Section 5.1).

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Option 5

Option 1

1a

Option 2 1b

Option 6 Option 3

Figure 1. The various fish sampling sites within and adjacent to the proposed mine site. (Nc = Ncacame River; Ts = Tshissi River; Nh = Nhambia River; Re = Revuboe River; Ncond = Ncondezi River) and the various options for the haul road corridors.

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3. APPROACH AND METHODS

3.1 Sampling Areas

The fish sampling sites are shown in Figure 1 and the coordinates, date sampled and a brief description of the various sites given in Table 1.

Table 1. The various fish sampling sites in the Revuboe River, Nhambia River (and tributaries) and the Ncondezi River within the Study Area. The location of the sites are depicted in Figure 1. (u/s = upstream). Site Name (& River) Co-ordinates Description & Comments South East Re 1 150 44’ 43.2” 330 45’ 37.3” A confluence of Revuboe-Nhambia. (Revuboe/Nhambia) Sampled on13/03/2013 and 14/09/2013. Re 2 150 43’ 30.6” 330 45’ 54.0” Adjacent to the base of Tenge mountain. (Revuboe) Sampled on 12/03/2013. Re 3 150 42’ 54.5” 330 46’ 26.0” Upstream of ferry crossing point. Sampled on (Revuboe) 09/03/2013 (600m u/s) and on 15/09/13 (100m u/s of crossing point). Re 4 150 41’ 50.6” 330 47’ 16.2” Approximately 1.5 km upstream of ferry (Revuboe) crossing point. Sampled on 09/03/2013. Re 5 150 41’ 32.9” 330 47’ 37.7” Crocodile creek, about 900m upstream of (Revuboe) Site Re 4. Sampled on 09/03/2013. Nc 1 150 42’ 12.9” 330 39’ 46.4” Second tributary from Massamba on road to (Ncacame) Tete. Sampled on 10/03/2013. Ts 1 150 41’ 7.9” 330 40’ 22.5” Drift on first tributary from Massamba on road (Tshissi) to Tete. Sampled on 11/03/2013. Nh 1 150 36’ 55.5” 330 40’ 3.5” First bridge from Massamba Village along (Nhambia) road to Francungo Village. Sampled on 10/03/2013. Ncond 1 150 49’ 32.2” 330 58’ 52.0” Cobble causeway crossing on road from (Ncondezi) Baobab Tenge camp to Ncondezi camp (coal mine). Sampled on 16/09/13. Ncond 2. 150 51’ 22.1” 330 56’ 02.9” Cobble causeway road crossing 9.2 km (Ncondezi) downstream of Ncond. 1 site. Sampled on 16/09/13. Ncond 3 150 52’ 9.0” 330 50’ 11.8” Near small village 13.8 km downstream of (Ncondezi) Ncond. 2 site. Sampled on 17/09/13.

3.1.1 The Revuboe River

Five sites were sampled along an 8 km reach of the Revuboe River within or adjacent to the Project Area. The site furthest downstream (Re 1) is located just south of the Project Area at the confluence with the Nhambia River; two sites (Re 2 and Re 3) are within the Project Area, while 2 sites (Re 4 and Re 5) are located in the Revuboe River upstream of the Project Area, some 1.5 km and 2.6 km respectively, upstream of the confluence with the Mussumbudze River. These two northern sites should be upstream of any mining impacts and could serve as future reference sites and as a base for comparison with sites located within and downstream of the mine footprint.

3.1.2 The Nhambia River

This seasonal river was sampled for fish in the wet season (March 2013) but only inspected in September 2013, due to lack of surface water in the dry season. One site (Nh 1) is on the main channel of the Nhambia River at the Massamba Village - Francungo Village (road 222) bridge north of the mine area. The other two sites are located within the mine area at bridges over

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 5 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 tributaries of the Nhambia River along the Massamba-Tete road (road 222), namely Nc 1 on the Ncacama River, and Ts 1 on the Tshissi River.

3.1.3 The Ncondezi River

This perennial river was only accessible by vehicle during the dry season survey (September 2013) and 3 sites in the lower Ncondezi River within the river reach to be crossed by the various haul road options, were sampled. Due to the lack of a boat and apparent presence of crocodiles at these sites, only shallow habitats (< 1.2m deep) were sampled with seine and dip nets. As the habitats sampled and the fish caught at the three sites were very similar, the data from the sites were combined in Table 4 (Section 4.2) below.

The co-ordinates and a brief description of the fish sampling sites are given in Table 1 and photographs and a description of the aquatic habitats at the various sites are summarised in Appendix 1.

3.2 Fish Capture Methods

Fish were captured using the following equipment:

o A 6m minnow seine (4 mm mesh). o A series of gill nets of various mesh sizes (15m sections of 4, 8, and 10 cm mesh size). o A fyke net (4 mm mesh, largest hoop of 60 cm). o A 12 volt DC back-pack electro-fisher (Samus 725G), in combination with a variety of dip nets. o Long line (15 hooks baited with fish).

The fishing equipment used was determined by the river flow conditions and aquatic habitats present at the various sites. These are described for each site in Appendix 1. During the wet season (March 2013), all surveys in the Revuboe River, using the gill nets, the long-line and the fyke net, were carried out using a motorized boat, which enabled sampling in deep water in spite of the presence of large crocodiles in this vicinity. During the dry season survey (September 2013) no motor-boat was available and a small dug-out canoe was used to lay gill nets in a restricted area near the ferry crossing in the Revuboe River. In addition, where possible, catches of local fishermen were also inspected and species caught were recorded.

Representative samples of the captured fish were preserved in 10% formalin and tissue samples preserved in absolute ethanol for genetic analyses were also collected and taken back to the South African Institute of Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB) in Grahamstown, South Africa, for future reference. The remaining fish were returned alive to the river.

3.3 Habitat Integrity or Present Ecological State (PES)

Qualitative data on the aquatic habitats present at each site, particularly the in-stream habitats sampled for fish, were recorded and photographs of the sites taken (see Appendix 1). Google Earth imagery was used to help assess the areas not visited on the ground. A rapid habitat assessment method developed by Kleynhans (1996) and Kemper (1999) was used to produce a preliminary habitat integrity assessment for relevant reaches of the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers.

This habitat integrity assessment is based on two perspectives of the river, the riparian zone and the instream channel. The various criteria assessed are those considered important to maintain the ecological integrity of the river and thus provide suitable habitats for aquatic biota such as fish. The criteria used in the assessment include the degree of river bed modification

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(e.g. sedimentation), flow modification and water abstraction, clearing of riparian vegetation, water quality modification, bank erosion, alien vegetation in riparian zone, etc.

A preliminary qualitative assessment of both the in-stream and riparian habitat integrity of the 8 km reach in the Revuboe River within the Study Area and the approximately 23 km reach in the Ncondezi River potentially impacted by the haul road crossings, was undertaken using the above methodology. Details of the procedures used are given in Appendix 3 and the results are summarised in Section 4 below.

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4. RESULTS

4.1 Habitat Integrity (or Present Ecological State)

The results of the preliminary habitat integrity assessment of the Revuboe and Ncondezi River within the Study Area (after Kleynhans 1996; Kemper 1999) are summarized in Table 2 and a description of the Habitat Integrity categories, after Kleynhans (1996), is given in Table 3.

Table 2. A summary of the results of the Habitat Integrity assessment of the affected reach of the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers assessed within the Study Area. RIVER REACH HABITAT INTEGRITY COMBINED HABITAT RIPARIAN INSTREAM INTEGRITY CLASS CLASS CATEGORY Revuboe R. within Study C B B/C Area Ncondezi River within B B B Study area

Table 3. A description of the habitat integrity categories (from Kleynhans, 1996). CATEGORY DESCRIPTION SCORE (% OF TOTAL) A Unmodified, natural. 90-100 B Largely natural with few modifications. A small change in 80-89 natural habitats and biota may have taken place but the ecosystem functions are essentially unchanged. C Moderately modified. A loss and change of natural habitat 60-79 and biota have occurred but the basic ecosystem functions are still predominantly unchanged. D Largely modified. A large loss of natural habitat, biota and 40-59 basic ecosystem functions has occurred. E The loss of natural habitat, biota and basic ecosystem 20-39 functions is extensive.

These habitat integrity results and the current human-induced impacts on the rivers and associated aquatic habitats in the Study Area, are discussed further in Section 5.

4.2 Fish Catch Data

A summary of the fish species captured at each site is given in Table 4 which includes available information on their conservation status according to the latest IUCN Red Data List ratings. Photographs of all the fish species captured are shown in Appendix 2.

The fish biodiversity within the Study Area, as well as their conservation importance and sensitivity to human-induced impacts associated with the proposed mining venture, are discussed further in Section 5. .

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Table 4. An annotated list of the 25 fish species (listed alphabetically) collected during the fish surveys in the Study Area at the Baobab Iron Ore Mine in March and September 2013. Fish at 3 sites in the Ncondezi River are combined (Ncond). NE = Not evaluated in IUCN Red List; DD = data deficient, thus IUCN unable to determine conservation status; LC – Least Concern, NT – Near Threatened, as classified in the IUCN Red Data List (IUCN 2010). FL = fork length; SL = standard length; TL = total length. Taxon (Genus, Common Captured at Sampling Site Comments: Conservation Status/food value species Name Re 1 RE 2 Re 3 Re 4 Re 5 Nc 1 Ts 1 Nh 1 Ncond

Barbus Plump barb √ √ LC. Common in East Coast rivers from Zambezi to afrohamiltoni Phongolo. Attains 175 mm SL. Barbus Line-spotted √ √ LC. Widespread in Central Africa. Attains 75 mm SL. lineomaculatus barb Barbus Straightfin √ √ √ √ LC. Widespread in central and southern Africa. Attains palludinosus barb 150 mm SL. Barbus radiatus Beira barb √ √ LC. Widespread in Central Africa.

Barbus Three-spot √ √ LC. Widespread in central and southern Africa. Attains trimaculatus barb 159 mm SL. Barbus viviparus Bowstripe barb √ LC. Widespread in East Coast rivers of central and southern Africa. Attains 70 mm SL. Brycinus imberi Spot-tailed √ √ √ √ √ LC. East coast rivers of central and southern Africa and robber/imberi the Congo system. Attains 180 mm FL. Clarias Sharptooth √ √ √ LC. Widely distributed throughout central and southern gariepinus catfish Africa Chiloglanis cf. Neumann’s √ DD. This species complex is widely distributed in the neumanni suckermouth Zambezi above and below Victoria Falls and east coast rivers in Tanzania but taxonomic uncertainty exists and results from DNA analysis awaited. Cyphomyrus Zambezi √ LC. Found in Cunene, Okavango and Zambezi rivers dioscorhynchus parrot-fish and central Africa. Attains 310 mm SL. Heterobranchus Vundu √ LC. Widespread in middle and lower Zambezi and longifilis Congo basin. Attains 1.16 m SL Hydrocynus Tigerfish √ √ √ √ LC. Widespread in central and southern Africa. Attains vittatus 700 mm FL Labeo altivelis Manyame √ √ LC. Widespread in middle and lower Zambezi and Save systems. Attains 400 mm SL Labeo cylindricus Redeye labeo √ √ √ LC. Widespread in Zambezi system south to Phongolo system. Attains 230 mm SL

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Taxon (Genus, Common Sampling Site Captured Comments: Distribution, Conservation Status/food species) Name Re 1 RE 2 Re 3 Re 4 Re 5 Nc 1 Tc 1 Nh 1 Ncon value Labeo Leaden labeo √ √ LC. Widespread in middle to lower Zambezi and south molybdinus to Tugela system. Attains 380 mm SL. Labeobarbus Largescale √ LC. Widespread in lower and middle Zambezi south to marequensis yellowfish Phongolo system. Attains470 mm TL. Microlestes Silver robber √ LC. Okavango, Zambezi system south to Phongolo and acutidens Congo system. Attains 80 mm SL Mormyrops Cornish jack √ LC. Middle and lower Zambezi, Congo system. Attains anguilloides 1.2 m TL Opsaridium Northern √ √ LC. Throughout Zambezi and Okanvango systems. zambezenze barred minnow Attains 120 mm SL. Oreochromis Black tilapia √ √ √ √ √ LC. Coastal plain from lower Zambezi to Mkuze. Attains placidus 300 mm SL. Oreochromis Mozambique √ √ NT. Widespread in east coasts rivers of southern Africa, mossambicus tilapia from Zambezi to Bushmans rivers. Attains 400 mm SL. Schilbe Butter barbel √ √ √ √ LC. Widespread in Okavango, Zambezi systems south intermedius to Phongolo. Attains 300 mm SL. Synodontis Brown √ LC. Middle and lower Zambezi south to Phongolo zambezensis squeaker system. Attains 430 mm SL. Tilapia rendalli Redbreast √ LC. Widespread in central and southern Africa. Attains tilapia 400 mm TL. Zaireichthys cf, Sand catlet √ DD. Species identification requires confirmation and monomotopa taxonomic uncertainty exists regarding this species complex. DNA analyses data not yet available. Little known regarding its current distribution and status.

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4.3 Fish Resource Utilization by Local Communities

Local villagers were seen carrying out fishing activities in the seasonal Nhambia River and in the perennial Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers, as shown in the photographs below.

Plate 3. Fish fence set across the lower Plate 4. Dug-out canoe with large seine net reaches of the dry Nhambia River bed by in Revuboe River used by local fishermen at local villagers (14/09/13). Site Re 1 (15/09/13).

Plate 5. Seine net operated by local Plate 6. Seine net catch (tilapia species) by . fishermen in the Revuboe R. at Site Re 1 local fishermen at Site Re 1 in the Revuboe (15/08/13). R. (15/09/13).

Plate 7. Local fishermen using a large dip- Plate 8. Young boys and girls using fine- net in the Ncondezi R. to catch Clarias sp.at meshed seine nets in the Ncondezi River at Site Ncond 2 (16/09/13). site Ncond 2 (16/09/13).

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In the Nhambia River fish fences made from wooden stakes and reeds are constructed across the river channel to trap fish upstream and to position funnel traps to capture fish migrating downstream when the water levels drop at the end of the wet season (see Plate.3). Hook and line fishing, as well as seine and gill nets were used by local fishermen in the Revuboe with the aid of a dugout canoe in the dry season (September 2013) – see plates 4 to 6). In the Ncondezi River, young boys and girls were seen using fine-meshed (mosquito mesh) seine nets, as well as an adult male using a large dip-net on 26 September 2013 (Plates 7 & 8).

There was no evidence that large-scale fishing activities take place in the Study Area and no informal fish markets for the sale of locally-caught fish were seen. However, it does appear that these artisanal fishing activities provide an important source of protein to supplement the diet of the local people living close to these rivers.

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5. DISCUSSION

5.1 Fish Biodiversity and Conservation Importance

Table 5. Summary of fish species found or expected in the Study Area sensitive to project-related impacts, particularly by instream barriers to migration. Data mainly from Skelton (2001) and IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Genus & Common Caught IUCN Comments (sensitivity to project-related Species Name Status threats)

Anguilla spp. Freshwater No LC At least 3 species of freshwater eels should be eel present (Anguilla mossambica, A, bengalensis labiate; A. marmorata). Difficult to catch during daylight hours (see text). Migrates from marine- spawning areas, thus blocked by instream barriers. Barbus Line-spotted Yes LC Has a preference for flowing water, moves lineomaculatus barb upstream to spawn on flooded vegetation; sensitive to elevated turbidity (Bills et al. 2010) Brycinus imberi Spot-tailed Yes LC Migrates upriver and also onto floodplains to robber/imberi spawn; sensitive to elevated turbidity levels (Bills et al. 2010) Chiloglanis Neuman’s Yes DD Prefers clean rocky areas in strong currents, such neumannii suckermouth as riffles and rapids, thus sensitive to siltation and reduced flows. Clarias Sharptooth Yes LC Migrates upriver and onto floodplains to breed. gariepinus catfish Hardy species tolerant of poor water quality. Hydrocynus Tigerfish Yes LC Migrates up rivers and into smaller stream for vittatus breeding among submerged vegetation. Thus seriously affected by instream barriers. Sensitive to poor water quality, including elevated turbidities. Labeo altivelis Manyame Yes LC Migrates up rivers and into smaller stream for breeding, thus affected by instream barriers Labeo Redeye Yes LC Undergoes mass spawning migrations upriver, thus cylindricus labeo affected by instream barriers. Sensitive to increased sedimentation (Bills et al. 2010). Labeo Leaden Yes LC Migrates upriver during high flows to breed, thus molybdinus labeo affected by instream barriers. Labeobarbus Largescale Yes LC Prefers rocky rapids and deeper pools, migrates marequensis yellowfish upriver during high flows to spawn in rapids, thus affected by instream barriers. Microlestes Silver robber Yes LC Shoals migrate upstream to breed after first acutidens summer rains, and being a partial spawner, breeds throughout summer. Impacted by instream barriers. Opsaridium Northern Yes LC Prefers clear, flowing waters of larger rivers. zambezenze barred Sensitive to flow reduction and siltation minnow Oreochromis Mozambique Yes NT Not particularly sensitive to mine-induced impacts, mossambicus tilapia but hybridisation with Nile tilapia the main threat. Zaireichthys cf. Sand catlet Yes DD Prefers clean rocky areas with sand in strong monomotopa currents, such as riffles and rapids, thus sensitive to siltation and reduced flows

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As shown in Table 4, of the total of 25 fish species captured in the Study Area, only one species, namely the Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), is categorized in the IUCN Red Data listings (IUCN 2012) as near threatened (NT). Two species found in flowing rapids and riffles in the Ncondezi River, Neuman’s suckermouth, Chiloglanis cf. neumanni and the sand catlet Zaireichthys cf. monomotopa are categorised as data deficient (DD) and their status should be considered as being of concern. In addition, further DNA studies on these two species are currently being undertaken to confirm their initial identification. The remaining 22 fish species captured are all classified as being of Least Concern (LC).

The absence of any of the three marine-spawning Anguillid eels (e.g. Anguilla mossambica, A. bicolor bicolor, A. marmorata) expected to be present in the rivers sampled is not surprising as freshwater eels are commonly caught at night on baited bottom-set hooks or fyke nets set overnight. Due to the presence of crocodiles these fishing methods were not employed in the present study. Local fishermen, however, confirmed the presence of eels in both the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers.

In terms of present knowledge, no other IUCN Red Data threatened fish species are expected to be present in the Study Area. However, in a recent (2013) fish survey of the lower Revuboe River, some 48 km downstream of the Baobab Mine Study Area, a new undescribed Synodontis species was captured (Roger Bills, Fish Curator, SAIAB, pers, comm., May 2014). Although not found during the present study, this new species (with an unknown conservation status) may also occur higher upstream in the Revuboe within the mining area.

A taxon is Near Threatened (NT) when it has been evaluated against the IUCN criteria and does not currently qualify as being threatened (i.e. Critically Endangered, Endangered or Vulnerable), but is likely to qualify for a threatened category in the near future. Mozambique tilapia is threatened by hybridization with the rapidly spreading Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, which is being spread beyond its natural distribution by anglers and for aquaculture. Hybridization is already occurring throughout a large part of O. mossambicus’s range including the Zambezi River system and the Limpopo River system. In terms of the extent of this impact, the threat of Oreochromis niloticus is widespread, and given the rapid spread of O. niloticus throughout southern Africa, it is anticipated that O. mossambicus will probably soon qualify as threatened due to rapid population decline through hybridization (Cambray & Swartz 2007).

Eighteen fish species were captured in the Revuboe River and ten of these species were not found in either the Nhambia River or its tributaries. Four of the ten species found in the Nhambia River system (including perennial tribututaries) were not found in the Revuboe River. Neumann’s suckermouth (Chiloglanis cf. neumanni) and the sand catlet (Zaireichthys cf. monomatopa) were only found among rocks and cobbles in fast-flowing, silt-free water in the Ncondezi River. This difference in species composition is considered to reflect the presence of different preferred in-stream habitats available in the various rivers. The apparent absence of suckermouth (Chiloglanis cf. neumanni) and sand catlets (Zaireichthys cf. monomatopa) in the Revuboe may be due to the higher level of fine sediment on the substrate compared to the Ncondezi.

The prevalence of tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) at four of the five sites in the Revuboe River during high flows in the wet season is noteworthy as this species is considered an indicator of good water quality, preferring deeper, warm, well-oxygenated water (Skelton 2001). The widespread occurrence of tigerfish in the Revuboe indicates that the impact of increased sediment input and associated elevated turbidity has not yet reached levels that impact negatively upon the feeding success or survival of this visual predator. Although not classified by the IUCN as threatened, tigerfish populations have declined in some rivers in southern Africa due to pollution, water abstraction and in-stream obstructions such as dams and weirs that prevent passage (Skelton 2001). East African populations are threatened by heavy fishing pressure, silt loading due to agricultural activities and deforestation, and

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 14 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 pollution due to pesticides for agricultural use (Azeroual et al. 2012). This popular angling as well as eating species thus warrants special attention and could be used as an indicator species during any future monitoring programmes to assess mining impacts.

5.2 Habitat Integrity or Present Ecological State

As discussed in detail in Appendix 3, the various ecological criteria assessed are those regarded as critical for the functional integrity of the river ecosystems. Modification of these criteria compared to the perceived natural or unmodified state, is regarded as the primary cause for the degradation or loss of ecosystem functioning of river systems.

5.2.1 Revuboe River

The in-stream habitats of the Revuboe River were assessed as having a habitat integrity of category B (score of 86.6), indicating that only a small change in the natural habitats and biota has taken place, but the ecosystem functions are essentially intact. The extensive clearing of riparian vegetation and the planting of crops right up to the water’s edge in some places is the main reason for the riparian habitats in the Revuboe River being assessed as having a habitat integrity class of C (score of 75). This indicates that a moderate loss of natural habitat and biota has taken place, but basic ecosystem functions are predominantly unchanged.

The main impacts on the Revuboe River are related to the unnaturally elevated sediment input from poor agricultural practices. Of particularly concern is the clearing of riparian vegetation on the river banks, resulting in soil erosion, and the collapse and slumping of the riverbanks.

Increased sediment input and elevated turbidity have a range of negative impacts on aquatic biota, including the disruption of the food web due to reduced light penetration and photosynthesis, the smothering of benthic organisms and fish eggs, the clogging and abrasion of fish gills (resulting in increased stress, disease and even death), and reducing the feeding efficiency of visual predators such as Tigerfish. . As mentioned above, the widespread occurrence of tigerfish in the Revuboe River within the Study Area indicates that elevated turbidity levels have not reached critical levels.

The destruction and extensive clearing of riparian trees along the banks of the Revuboe River in the Study Area, together with increased sediment input, appears to have stimulated reed (Phragmites sp.) growth along the river banks and in backwaters. These dense reed beds in shallower water trap sediments and exacerbate the problem of channel siltation and loss of valuable marginal and in-stream habitat diversity. A potential positive impact of these dense reed-beds would be increased filtration and a reduction in the turbidity levels.

5.2.2 Ncondezi River

The limited human-induced impacts on the lower Ncondezi River appears to be related to the relatively low population density in the catchment and the limited impact on the riparian vegetation. Both the riparian and instream habitat integrity were assessed as Class B, as this system is relatively natural with few modifications. A small change in natural habitats and biota may have taken place but the ecosystem functions are essentially unchanged. The main impacts are related to clearing of riparian vegetation and cultivation close to the river banks, but these disturbances appear relatively scarce and limited in extent.

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5.3 Key Processes and Risks

5.3.1 River Ecosystems

River ecosystem functioning is influenced by the upstream drainage network and thus land-use practices in the catchment. Transformation of catchments by extensive clearing of indigenous vegetation, construction of roads and river crossings and earthmoving practices associated with mining activities, as well as a range of impacts associated with increased human populations in the catchments, can significantly degrade downstream river systems.

This catchment degradation is often reflected in altered or reduced stream flow and a decline in water quality through increased sedimentation and run-off of water contaminated by pollutants (e.g. effluent from sewage works and mining operations) into the adjacent rivers. In reference to this project, protocols to contain and purify all run-off water contaminated by mining activities, as well as to minimise changes in surface run-off volumes from the mine area, should be put in place – see Section 6.

5.3.2 River Flow Patterns and Fish Migrations

The indigenous fish in the Study Area, particularly the larger species such as the labeos, yellowfish and tigerfish, have adapted their life-cycles to the naturally fluctuating river flow patterns and seasonal availability of preferred habitats in these rivers and seasonal streams. For example, upstream migrations for spawning and feeding are usually triggered in spring at the beginning of the rainy season when the seasonal rivers (e.g. the Nhambia, Maotize and Modizo) start flowing again and the flows increase in the perennial rivers such as the Revuboe and Ncondezi. At this time there is access to preferred spawning grounds, such as newly inundated vegetation in slow-flowing pools and flooded backwaters on the floodplains as well as in rapids and riffle areas with clean, silt-free boulders and cobbles. The shallow backwaters created during high river flows in spring and summer are rich in food organisms and normally have relatively few predators and thus serve as ideal nursery areas for the newly hatched young. At the end of the wet season when river flows drop, the fish move downstream out of the seasonal streams and flooded backwaters to deeper refuge areas in the perennial rivers.

Local fishermen have adapted their fishing strategies to intercept and thus benefit from these fish migrations. Any alterations to these natural flow patterns due to water abstraction or river diversion, would thus both threaten the spawning success of important fish species, as well as reduce the fishing success of local fishermen.

These annual upstream fish migrations could potentially be blocked by poorly-designed instream structures such as road bridges or causeways built cross these rivers on access roads to the mine. Flood protection berms on the floodplain could block off access to productive backwater areas utilized as fish nursery areas for newly-hatched young. Thus, instream barriers to fish migration in both seasonal and perennial rivers could have devastating impacts on fish populations as access to optimum breeding and nursery areas will be blocked off. In seasonal rivers, the reaches upstream of such barriers to migration could become almost devoid of these migratory fish species in spite of the presence of suitable habitats in the wet season.

5.3.3 Elevated Sediment Input

Increased sediment input and raised turbidity levels in the rivers due to mining related activities in the catchment could have serious negative impacts on aquatic habitats and biota. Reduced water quality due to increased sediment input, together with water pollution due to a variety of

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 16 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 factors, is considered one of the biggest threats facing rivers and associated aquatic biota in southern Africa (Skelton 2001).

The negative impacts of elevated turbidity on fish and other aquatic biota, include:  The whole food web can be disrupted due to reduced light penetration and photosynthesis, resulting in reduced primary production and a reduction in submerged plant life, including phytoplankton.  Reduced number of benthic organisms (e.g. benthic algae, crabs, small aquatic invertebrates) due to altered substrate composition and smothering.  Clogging, abrading and damage to fish gills, leading to reduced oxygen absorption, damage to gill filaments, resulting in increased stress, disease and even death (Whitfield and Paterson 1995).  Smothering of newly fertilized fish eggs and larval fish.  Reduced feeding efficiency and slower growth rates, even starvation of fish – this can have a major impact on visual predators as they are unable to see and find enough food in the turbid water and filter feeders are unable to cope with a high proportion of non- food items.  The sediment loads associated with the elevated turbidity can fill in deep refuge pools in the river channel, altering important marginal habitats due to excessive reed growth. Silt deposits can smother clean rocky, riffle areas that often provide fish spawning habitat during the high flow season and can degrade preferred habitat among clean cobbles and rocks utilised by current-loving (rheophylic) species.

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6. IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT OF IMPACTS

6.1 Existing Aquatic Habitat Integrity

An assessment of the existing environmental impacts and the current aquatic habitat integrity of affected reaches of the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers provide a baseline against which the potential impacts associated with all aspects of the proposed mining venture can be assessed.

As described in Sections 4.1 and 5.2 above, both the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers are presently in a relatively unmodified state and have a high instream habitat integrity. No evidence of upstream pollution by man or hydrological modifications due to water abstraction or flow alternation due to instream impoundments, was found.

Existing impacts in both rivers are related mainly to clearing of vegetation for agricultural activities, particularly in the riparian zones and the construction of road crossings. The resultant soil erosion, river bank collapse and increased sediment input into the rivers has negatively impacted aquatic habitats. However, in spite of these impacts, the basic ecosystem functioning of these rivers and streams are essentially unchanged and they support a diverse aquatic biota, including fish species of special concern.

6.2 Overview of Mining Impacts

It is anticipated that the proposed Tete Baobab Iron Ore mine project could potentially impact on three recognized abiotic drivers affecting aquatic habitat integrity, namely water quality, river flow (hydrology) and fluvial geomorphology. These potential impacts include the following:

 Pollution of surface and groundwater via contaminated run-off from the mine area, including from the tailings storage facility (TSF) and waste rock dump site draining into the Revuboe River.  Altering river flow dynamics due to changing groundwater gradients, the construction of dams or weirs and abstraction of surface water from the Revuboe River.  Destruction of river banks and riparian zones and fragmentation of stream continuity due to instream structures (dams, weirs, haul road causeways and bridge crossings) across the Ncondezi River (and possibly Revuboe River) and smaller seasonal streams such as the Moatize and Modizo.

6.2.1 Water Quality

Water draining from the mining sites could potentially have elevated sediment loads and chemical contaminants associated with machinery and construction activities, as well as harmful chemicals associated with the ore being mined and processed. The possibility of acid mine drainage (AMD) and vanadium contamination from waste rock dump (WRD) and tailing storage facilities (TSF) sites will have to be considered. The above pollutants could potentially contaminate both groundwater and surface waters feeding into the Revuboe River (and possibly Nhambia River) and negatively impact aquatic biota for some distance downstream.

In terms of AMD pollution and the related low pH toxicity to aquatic life, no single guideline values can be easily set.as this is influenced by the properties of the receiving water. The IFC Environmental Health and Safety Guidelines for Mining (2007) specify that any discharge from mines should not exceed pH levels below 6 or above 9. Dallas & Day (1993), however, recommend that pH changes of not more than one pH unit compared to the receiving waters should be permitted.

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Vanadium can be found in the environment in algae, plants, invertebrates, fishes and many other species and may be an important micronutrient. Although not normally considered to be an important environmental contaminant, high concentrations inhibit physiological processes such as tissue oxidation and the synthesis of fatty acids and amino acids (Dallas & Day 1993). In mussels and crabs vanadium strongly bioaccumulates, but the significance of this is unknown. The recommended value not to be exceeded for the protection of aquatic life is given as 0.5 mg/I in South Africa and 0.02 to 0.06 mg/l in the United Kingdom (Dallas & Day 1993).

In terms of recommended upper levels of turbidity for aquatic ecosystems, standards vary from country to country, but a turbidity increase of not more than 5-25 Nephelometric Turbidity Units (NTUs) above the natural level in the receiving water is generally recommended (Dallas & Day 1993).

6.2.2 Hydrology

The groundwater component of the base-flows of the small streams and drainage lines in the immediate vicinity of the mine may be reduced by mine dewatering lowering the water table and causing a cone of depression around the open pit. When the pit floor elevation drops below the level of the Revuboe River, groundwater flow will be re-directed away from the river and towards the pit area. This reduction in natural groundwater flow towards the river and recharge from the river to the pit area, could reduce river base lows. Impacts associated with the dewatering of the open pits could also include drying out of wetlands and longer periods of low and no-flow in seasonal streams (e.g. Nhambia) during the dry season.

Further studies will be required in order to quantify this impact, but due to the relatively large flows in the Revuboe River, this potential impact may not be significant. The size of the sub- catchment containing the mine area (approximately 178 km2) is relatively small compared to the size of the Revuboe River catchment upstream of the mine area (11 000 km2). The containment and alteration of surface flows by mining operations in this 1.7% of the Revuboe catchment upstream of the mine is thus expected to have a low impact on flows in the Revuboe River.

Water for mining operations may be abstracted from the Revuboe River, which appears to be the only river potentially affected in terms of the flow dynamics. If water for mining operations is abstracted directly from the Revuboe River (run of river), or via an instream or off-channel impoundment, this could significantly alter flow dynamics and have serious negative impacts on aquatic habitats and biota. Detailed studies on the environmental water requirements (EWR) of the downstream affected reach of the Revuboe River will be required in order to adequately mitigate any adverse impacts.

6.2.3 Summary of Mining Impacts

The potential individual impacts on the fish fauna and associated riverine habitats associated with various stage of the proposed Tete Iron Project, can be grouped into six main issues, some of which have a number of separate impacts that will require specific mitigation measures. These issues and individual impacts include:

Issue 1: Water Quality  Impact 1.1: Sedimentation & elevated turbidity.  Impact 1.2: Contamination from none-ore pollutants.  Impact 1.3: Ore contamination (e.g. acid mine drainage).

Issue 2: Water Quantity  Impact 2.1: Alteration of river flow dynamics

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Issue 3: Habitat Modification  Impact 3.1: In-stream habitat modification.  Impact 3.2: Loss of species of special concern.

Issue 4: Aquatic Habitat Fragmentation  Impact 4.1: In-stream structures blocking migrations (bridges, causeways).

Issue 5: Fish Resource  Impact 5.1: Over-utilization of fish resources.

Issue 6. Cumulative Impacts  Impact 6.1: Loss of fish and aquatic biodiversity due to the synergistic effect of the above impacts.

6.3 Assessment of Mining Impacts

This section attempts to describe and assess the significance of the individual potential impacts associated with the proposed mining activities on the aquatic habitats and the associated fish biota in the Study Area. Mitigation measures are recommended, where feasible.

A similar protocol is used for the assessment of environmental impacts in the various specialist studies contained in the environmental impact assessment report by CES. A description of the rating criteria and qualitative assessments used to describe the likelihood, extent (spatial scale), duration, intensity and confidence attached to the prediction, as well as the environmental significance scale, is given in Appendix 4.

6.3.1 Issue 1: Water Quality

Impact 1.1: Sedimentation and elevated turbidities in rivers

Cause and comment The negative impacts of sedimentation and elevated turbidity in rivers can be very significant and even lethal for aquatic biota, including fish – see Section 5.3.3 above.

The mobilisation of excess sediment resulting in elevated sediment entering adjacent rivers can potentially occur during all phases of the project, as discussed below.

Design and Planning: Impacts related to the prospecting and drilling phases should have a minor impact due to the relatively limited extent of the activities, provided appropriate precautions are taken.

Construction of infrastructure: Vegetation cover may be removed without taking anti-erosion measures during site-clearing and stockpiling of top-soil associated with open pit mining and the construction of mining infrastructure and access roads. Together with run-off from roads, construction of river crossings for vehicles, these actions may increase soil erosion and hence sediment-laden run-off into adjacent rivers.

Operation: Earthmoving activities associated with mining operations may be undertaken without taking effective anti-erosion measures. After heavy rains, sediment-laden run-off from mining sites, waste rock dumps (WRDs), as well as spills from the tailings storage facility (TSF), erosion of containment walls, etc., may result in sediment-laden water entering adjacent drainage lines leading to the Revuboe River.

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Closure: Inadequate rehabilitation of cleared and de-vegetated areas, contaminated run-off from old mining pits, old mining camps, WRD and TSF sites and poor maintenance of soil erosion preventative measures, as well as run-off from old roads, particularly at eroded river crossings, may result in sediment input and elevated turbidity levels in adjacent rivers.

Mitigation It is essential to prevent sediment-laden run-off from all cleared and disturbed areas, or areas associated with the mining activities (open pits, WRD and TSF sites, etc.) from entering drainage lines and adjacent rivers. The following actions are recommended:

o The TSF and WRD sites should be located away from drainage lines or rivers and best industrial practice put in place in terms of design, operation and maintenance. o Mine-water and surface run-off from the mining areas should be detained in sedimentation ponds before the clear surface water (if uncontaminated) is allowed to flow into the adjacent drainage lines or streams. o Contaminated water from the process plant should be stored in a dedicated storage reservoir and fed back to the process water reticulation together with the supernatant or decant water from the TSF. o Details of mitigation measures for full containment and treatment (if feasible) of contaminated waters should be clearly stipulated in the EMP document. o Significance Statement A low impact is anticipated during planning and design. During the construction, operational and even decommissioning/closure phases of the project, a long term severe impact is definitely anticipated without mitigation. With appropriate mitigation this impact can probably be reduced to moderate significance.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Probable LOW- Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Probable LOW - Mitigation Construction Phase Without Medium term Study Area Severe Definite HIGH - mitigation With Medium term Study Area Moderate Probable MODERATE - mitigation Operation Phase Without Permanent Regional Very severe Definite HIGH - Mitigation With Long term Regional Moderate Probable MODERATE - Mitigation Decommissioning Phase Without Permanent Regional Severe Definite HIGH - Mitigation With Medium term Regional Moderate May occur MODERATE - Mitigation

Impact 1.2: Contamination from non-ore pollutants

Cause and comment

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Design and Planning: Impacts related to pollution during the prospecting and drilling phases should be relatively minor due to the limited extent of the activities, provided appropriate precautions are taken.

Construction and Operation: Hazardous materials & chemical pollutants (e.g. hydrocarbons from machinery and vehicles, floatation reagents, uncured cement, paints, shutter fluids, etc.) associated with both construction and mining activities, as well as washing detergents and soap, poorly-treated domestic effluents from the mine camp, mine workers using riparian zones for ablutions, etc., could pollute both groundwater and surface water. These pollutants could be harmful to aquatic biota and impact on drinking water quality for communities and domestic stock downstream.

Closure: Chemical pollutants from machinery (e.g. hydrocarbons) and workers (faeces, soap) associated with decommissioning and rehabilitation work, as well as seepage from poorly maintained WRD and TSF sites, may contaminate groundwater or wash into drainage lines leading to the Revuboe (and possibly Nhambia) River downstream or downslope of the mine sites.

Mitigation  Strict management of hazardous chemicals.  Prevention of hydrocarbon spills from machinery & vehicles.  Domestic effluent from the mine camps should be treated in on-site waste water treatment works and final effluent should be of high quality and used for irrigation or mining purposes.  Containment and treatment of all contaminated water run-off from mine sites prior to discharge.  Strict control of workers movements and behaviour.

Successful mitigation is readily feasible via a strictly implemented environmental management plan (EMP) for all project phases. Please note that additional mitigation measures and details regarding discharge limits are provided in the Waste Management Specialist report.

Significance Statement The mining operations during all phases may cause a medium term risk of chemical pollution resulting in severe, long term impacts of high significance in the Study Area without mitigation. With appropriate mitigation this impact should be reduced to low significance.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Probable MODERATE - Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW - Mitigation Construction Phase Without Medium term Study Area Severe Probable HIGH - mitigation With Medium term Study Area Moderate May occur LOW - mitigation Operation Phase Without Long term Regional Severe Probable HIGH - Mitigation With Long term Regional Moderate May occur LOW - Mitigation Decommissioning Phase

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Without Long term Regional Severe Probable MODERATE - Mitigation With Long term Regional Moderate May occur LOW - Mitigation

Impact 1.3: Ore-related contamination

Cause and Comment The ore deposit to be excavated and processed that will end up in the tailings storage facility (TSF), as well as at the waste rock dumps (WRDs), could potentially generate acid mine drainage (AMD). Contamination by vanadium present in the ore body is also a possibility.

Design and Planning: No acid mine drainage generation is anticipated during this phase.

Construction and Operation: During construction and operation involving large-scale earthmoving for mine pits, large areas of the ore will be exposed to rainfall and thus run-off from these areas could include low pH acid mine drainage (AMD). This could include contaminated water from containment ponds, the TSF sites, and from waste rock dump (WRD) sites, etc. An extreme event (flood, earthquake) could cause dam or embankment failure resulting in mine effluent being washed into the nearest river. AMD, characterised by low pH and high concentrations of ferrous iron, heavy metals and sulphate, could contaminate adjacent drainage lines as well as groundwater and impact negatively on aquatic biota in the Revuboe River, as well as constitute a health hazard to communities far downstream from the mine site itself. AMD formation is biologically-catalyzed and once initiated, may persist for decades if not addressed.

Closure: Unless adequate precautions and long-term maintenance programmes are put in place, AMD contaminated water from containment dams, the TSF and old WRD sites could seep into groundwater or decant out of old mine pits, and migrate into the adjacent river system.

Mitigation  All water contaminated by the ore deposits from the mining operations and WRD sites should be retained and pumped to the TSF or to a process-water reservoir.  All low pH water should be treated appropriately prior to discharge.  All effluent from the mine should be subjected to regular chemical analyses, including for vanadium concentrations.  Industry best practice to prevent pollution from the TSFs and WRDs should be strictly implemented to ensure full containment and treatment of contaminated run- off, as well as anti-pollution management practices during mining operations and during decommissioning/closure – as set out in EMP and specified in the Waste Management Specialist Report.  Long-term maintenance and monitoring of old WRD and TSF sites.

Significance Statement There will probably be a long term, severe impact of high significance due to the contamination of surface waters by AMD (and possibly vanadium) if appropriate mitigation is not put in place during the operational phase and even after closure. The impacted area will include both the Study Area and potentially many kilometres downstream in the Revuboe River, the main river draining the site. With appropriate mitigation, this potential impact could be reduced to moderate or even low significance.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact

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Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW - Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW - Mitigation Construction Phase Without Medium term Study Area low unlikely LOW - mitigation With Medium term Study Area low unlikely LOW - mitigation Operation Phase Without Long term Regional Very severe Probable VERY HIGH- Mitigation With MODERATE TO Long term Regional Moderate May occur Mitigation LOW- Decommissioning Phase Without Long term Regional Very Severe Probable VERY HIGH- Mitigation With MODERATE TO Long term Regional Moderate May occur Mitigation LOW-

6.3.2 Issue 2: Hydrology

Impact 2.1: Alteration of river flow dynamics

Cause and comment Planning and design: Due to the limited water requirements and disturbance to the topography of the mine site during this phase, no significant impacts on drainage lines and surface run-off to adjacent rivers are anticipated.

Construction and Operation:  During both these project phases earthworks associated with mining could alter the natural topography. This could destroy drainage lines and/or alter natural flow patterns within the project area and thus drainage to streams and drainage lines leading to the Revuboe River.  Lowering of the water table during dewatering of the mine pits could reduce the base- flow component of flows in the Revuboe River. This may be important during the dry season, with negative impacts on in-stream biota and riparian vegetation.  The extent of the impact of abstraction of water from the Revuboe River for mining operations will naturally depend on the size and location of any impoundment constructed and the volume and timing of the proposed abstractions. This information is unavailable at present.

Closure: Lowered groundwater levels could take tens of years to return to pre-mining levels and river base flows will be reduced until these levels are reached.

Mitigation  In terms of alterations of surface and groundwater flows within the mining sub- catchment, little can be done to mitigate this impact apart from attempting to ensure that surface run-off within the project areas is kept as natural as possible and natural drainage lines remain functional.  If water is to be abstracted from the Revuboe River for mining purposes, the construction of an off-channel storage dam which is filled by pumping (or diverting river flow) during high flow events, will have the least impact on the natural hydrology and hence aquatic biota and habitats. Any instream impoundment will require careful

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management and appropriate water releases to satisfy the downstream flow requirements needed to sustain riverine habitats and aquatic biota.

Significance Statement The groundwater contribution from the mine area to total base-flow in the Revuboe River within the Study Area, is probably relatively low, but could be important in maintaining surface flow during the dry season. The probable long-term impacts of high significance related to the construction of an instream impoundment could probably be reduced to a moderate significance with appropriate mitigation, particularly if an off-channel storage dam is envisaged. If this latter option is chosen, the flow dynamics in the Revuboe could revert to the pre-mining condition after mine closure, if appropriate mitigation and rehabilitation is undertaken.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation Construction Phase Without Medium term Study Area Moderate May occur MODERATE- mitigation With Medium term Study Area Slight May occur LOW- mitigation Operation Phase (No abstraction or impoundment on the Revuboe River) Without Long term Regional Moderate Probable MODERATE- Mitigation With Long term Regional Slight May occur LOW- Mitigation Operation Phase (Abstraction from and construction of impoundment on the Revuboe River) Without Severe to Very HIGH TO VERY Long term Regional Definite Mitigation Severe HIGH- With Long term Regional Moderate Probable MODERATE- Mitigation Decommissioning/Closure Phase Without Medium term Regional moderate May occur MODERATE- Mitigation With Short term Regional slight unlikely LOW- Mitigation

6.3.3 Issue 3: Habitat Modification

Impact 3.1: Aquatic Habitat Modification

Cause and comment Planning and design: The limited activity during this phase means that any impacts on riparian and instream habitats are unlikely and of low severity and significance.

Construction and operation: Aquatic (including riparian) habitats both within and adjacent to the project area will be impacted during these mining phases. The construction of flood berms adjacent to the Revuboe River will inevitably modify the riparian zone and destroy riparian vegetation. Degradation of aquatic habitats will also impact on river reaches downstream of the mine area. The anticipated influx of work-seekers and the subsequent explosion of the local

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 25 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 population adjacent to the mine during construction, operation and closure will result in an increased degradation of the catchment, including clearing of vegetation, particularly in riparian areas and associated drainage lines, for farming activities and the construction of dwellings. This impact, together with the construction of new roads and the watercourse crossings required for the new haul road to the Moatize railway line in the south-east and upgrading of existing tracks near watercourses, will further degrade riparian zones. This could cause increased soil erosion and river bank instability, resulting in elevated turbidities and sediment input further degrading instream habitats and impacting on aquatic biota.

Decommissioning: Even after mine closure, the pressure of the increased population and associated negative environmental impacts will probably continue unless comprehensive rehabilitation plans are put in place.

Mitigation The opportunity for mitigating these impacts and protecting the riparian corridor and river channel will be greater within the designated project area. The following actions should be undertaken  All bridge and causeway construction for road (or rail) crossings should incorporate specific impact assessment studies to ensure eco-friendly designs incorporating bank stabilization structures, as well as the development and implementation of very strict construction environmental management plans (CEMPs).  Riparian buffer zones (no-development areas) of 30 to 50 m wide on either bank should be demarcated on all watercourses within the project area (and adjacent areas if feasible).  Local communities should be made aware of the importance of preserving buffer zones along rivers and drainage lines.

Significance Statement This potential highly significant, long-term negative impact on riparian and instream habitats will definitely occur both within and immediately adjacent to the project area if mitigation in not undertaken. With appropriate mitigation this impact can probably be reduced to moderate significance.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation Construction and Operation Phases Without Long-term Study Area Severe Definite HIGH- mitigation With Long-term Study Area Moderate Probable MODERATE- mitigation Decommissioning Phase Without Long-term Study area Severe Definite HIGH- Mitigation With Short-term Study area Moderate Probable LOW- Mitigation

Impact 3.2: Loss of species of special concern

Cause and comment

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The three main fish species of concern include tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus), Neumann‘s suckermouth (Chiloglanis cf. neumanni) and the sand catlet (Zaireichthys cf. monomotopa). The taxonomic uncertainty related to the latter two “potentially new” species, means their conservation status and distribution cannot be assessed. All the above species are sensitive to poor water quality, particularly to increased turbidity and sediment deposition, as well as changes in flow dynamics. These are impacts potentially associated with the proposed iron ore mining venture. The other fish species of concern, the Red Data (Near Threatened) Mozambique tilapia, is known to be widespread in Mozambique, and the apparent absence in the Study Area of Nile tilapia, indicates that Mozambique tilapia is not under any immediate threat of hybridization in this locality. The main impacts associated with the mining venture on this species are associated with water pollution and increased exploitation.

Mitigation A whole range of mitigation measures to reduce the negative impacts on aquatic habitats and fish biota in the Study Area are described in this report. However, effective mitigation is difficult, and in spite of these efforts, it is possible that both the above three species of concern may be seriously impacted due to impacts associated with the proposed mining venture, including the probable environmental degradation outside the mine project area associated with the increase in human population pressures.

Significance Statement The significance on a regional or national level of losing these two “ potentially new” fish species of special concern is difficult to assess, as their distribution in adjacent rivers is currently not known. If widespread in this region of Mozambique, the local loss of these two species in the Study Area may not be highly significant in terms of their overall conservation status. However, as this information is not presently available, a precautionary approach was taken in this assessment.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation Construction and Operation Phases Without Long-term Study Area Severe Probable HIGH- mitigation With Long-term Study Area Moderate May occur MODERATE- mitigation Decommissioning Phase Without Long-term Study area moderate Probable MODERATE- Mitigation With Long-term Study area moderate Probable MODERATE- Mitigation

6.3.4 Issue 4: Aquatic Habitat Fragmentation

Impact 4.1: In-stream structures blocking migrations

At this stage of the project there is no confirmation that any instream weirs or dams will be built in the Revuboe River or any details of the potential location or design of such structures. However, for the purposes of this report, this option will be assessed in terms of habitat

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 27 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015 fragmentation and disruption of stream continuity. In addition, the construction of a new bridge over the Ncondezi River and numerous causeways or culverts over small seasonal watercourses (including the highly seasonal Maotize and Modizo rivers) along the new haul road route from the mine to the Maotize railway, could potentially block natural migrations of fish and other biota.

Cause and Comment As discussed earlier, the construction of instream barriers to migration would disrupt stream continuity and will include the following impacts on migratory fish species:  The blocking of natural longitudinal movements of fish for feeding, larval development or over-wintering, will reducing breeding success and increase mortalities.  The isolation of upstream fish populations could result in negative genetic impacts and reduced survival fitness, while the prevention of re-colonisation after high mortalities could threaten long-term viability of migratory fish populations upstream of the barrier.

Construction, Operation & Closure: The construction of in-stream structures associated with the project, particularly any instream dam or weir on the Revuboe River, could potentially block fish migrations, if poorly located and designed.

Mitigation Measures  Incorporate suitably designed fishways on any in-stream dams or weirs that could block natural migrations. The design and hydraulic conditions within the fishway should accommodate the swimming abilities of all migratory indigenous fish species found in the affected rivers, including the catadromous (marine spawning) Anguillids (eels). Monitoring and fine-tuning of any fishways constructed will be necessary to ensure their effectiveness.  Ensure the provision of suitably designed bridges and causeways across rivers and streams in the Study Area that allow free movement of fish and other aquatic biota. As a guideline, the natural longitudinal profile of the riverbed both upstream and downstream of the structure should be maintained, in order to allow the natural movement of mobile bed material and to ensure that water velocities are not increased downstream of or within the structure (Singler & Graber 2005). Bridges or open arches over large rivers and open bottom culverts over smaller streams are therefore recommended.  Significance Statement In the absence of any mitigation, instream barriers to fish migration in the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers (and possibly some of the larger seasonal streams), would probably have severe impacts of high significance on fish populations during construction, operation and closure mine phases. With appropriate mitigation this impact could be reduced to low significance.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW- Mitigation Construction and Operation Phases Without Permanent Regional Severe Probable HIGH- mitigation With Permanent Regional low May occur LOW -

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6.3.5 Issue 5: Fisheries Resource

Impact 5.1: Over-utilization of fish resources

Cause and comment The fisheries resource in the seasonal rivers (e.g. Nhambia River) in the Study Area appears fairly small and provides a seasonal protein source for a relatively small percentage of the local population. However, the fisheries resource in Revuboe River appears of moderate importance, and is thought to make an important contribution to the diet of local villagers throughout the year. The increase in local population due to the mining project and easy access to the rivers could result in overfishing and depleting of local fish populations. The Revuboe River will most likely be very heavily fished in the future, particularly during the dry season.

Mitigation  This impact will be very difficult to counter by law-enforcement as this is not a declared fisheries area and currently environmental law-enforcement in this locality is virtually non-existent.  A series of practical, common sense rules and restrictions to monitor and regulate fishing activities could be developed in consultation with the local Chief, village elders and local fishermen. If these rules are in place before the population increases, it will go a long way to help manage the fisheries resources in a sustainable way.

Significance Statement Apart from during the design and planning phase, there will probably be a severe, long-term impact on the fisheries resource of moderate significance due to over-exploitation by the increased population seeking work opportunities at the mine. With mitigation this impact may be reduced to moderate severity, with a low significance.

Effect Risk or Impact Temporal Severity of Significance Spatial Scale Likelihood Scale Impact Design and Planning Phase Without Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW - Mitigation With Short Term Localised Slight Unlikely LOW - Mitigation Construction and Operation Phases Without Long-term Regional Severe Probable MODERATE - mitigation With Long-term Regional moderate May occur LOW - mitigation Decommissioning Phase Without Long-term Regional severe Probable MODERATE - Mitigation With Long-term Regional moderate May occur LOW - Mitigation

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6.3.6 Issue 6: Statement on Cumulative Impacts

Impact 6.1: Loss of fish and aquatic biodiversity due to the synergistic effect of the above impacts

Water Quality In terms of pollution of the Revuboe River located adjacent to and downslope of the mine, the cumulative impacts on water quality associated with the various mining operations and influx of work-seekers into the local catchment, could potentially all combine to exacerbate the individual impacts. These individual impacts include increased sedimentation and turbidity (Impact 1.1), pollution from chemicals or hazardous substances used in mining (Impact 1.2) and acid mine drainage originating from mine ore (Impact 1. 3).

Additional factors that will tend to increase the severity and exacerbate the water quality issues include: a) Reduction in runoff to rivers (e.g. due to dewatering for the mine pit – Impact 2.1 ) will tend to increase the impact of any pollution event due to the reduction in the beneficial effects of dilution, and b) The clearing of riparian vegetation and reducing the width and density of the riparian buffer zone (Impact 3.1) would reduce the important function this habitat plays in absorbing and filtering polluted run-off before it can enter the river channel.

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7. RECOMMENDATIONS

In addition to the direct environmental impacts due to the construction and operation of the proposed mine, the indirect impacts associated with the inevitable increase in the local population due to the influx of work-seekers and families to the study area should also be considered. The increased population will inevitably place more pressure on natural resources, resulting in increased environmental degradation of the catchment and the associated aquatic habitats. These negative impacts on biodiversity, including on aquatic biodiversity in local rivers in the vicinity of the mine project area, will be virtually impossible to adequately mitigate. The concept of biodiversity offsets should thus be considered.

7.1 Biodiversity Offsets

The International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) recognises that biodiversity offsets provide a potential mechanism to compensate for impacts on biodiversity that cannot be easily mitigated (ICMM 2005). The ICMM guidelines recommend that that the mining industry should fully explore the use of biodiversity offsets when any project reaches a point at which investments in biodiversity offsets provides greater social, economic and environmental benefits than trying to mitigate all impacts.

Biodiversity offsets are described as: Sustainable conservation actions intended to compensate for the residual unavoidable harm to biodiversity caused by development projects, so as to aspire to no net loss in biodiversity (ten Kate et al. 2004 – vide ICMM 2005).

In terms of conserving aquatic biota found in the Study Area, the granting of formal protection to the Revuboe River upstream of the mine (and/or possibly the middle and upper Ncondezi River) should be investigated. The conservation or sustainable management of the catchment area, including the indigenous riparian vegetation and associated terrestrial biota, will be necessary to adequately conserve the chosen streams. The mine could contribute financially towards the establishment and management of the proposed protected area.

Ideally, the biodiversity offset area chosen should contain habitats that support the full biodiversity of the region and within which ecological and evolutionary processes should still operate within their natural ranges. Incorporating rivers of high ecological integrity such as the Revuboe and Ncondezi into a conservation strategy for a region would thus not only protect biodiversity, but also ensure many small-scale biodiversity processes, such as localized nutrient cycling, sediment transport and other ecological processes will continue to function naturally (Nel et al. 2006).

7.2 Environmental Statement

This investigation identified a number of negative impacts on aquatic habitats and fish associated with the proposed mining venture that were rated as HIGH before mitigation. However, it is anticipated that the identified highly significant impacts before mitigation could all be reduced to MODERATE or LOW significance provided appropriate mitigation and careful environmental management is implemented during all phases of the proposed mining venture.

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8. REFERENCES

Azeroual, A., Bills, R., Cambray, J., Getahun, A., Hanssens, M., Marshall, B., Moelants, T. & Tweddle, D. 2010. Hydrocynus vittatus. In: IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2012.2. . Downloaded on 30 May 2013.

BILLS, R., HANSSENS, M., KAZEMBE, J., MARSHALL, B., MOELANTS, T., NTAKIMAZI, G. & TWEDDLE, D. 2010. Barbus lineomaculatus. In: IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2012.1. .

BILLS, R., MARSHALL, B.E. & CAMBRAY, J. 2007. Labeobarbus marequensis. In: IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2012.1. .

Cambray, J. & Swartz, E. 2007. Oreochromis mossambicus. In: IUCN 2012. IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2012.2. . Downloaded on 30 May 2013.

Coffey Environments & Coastal & Environmental Services Mozambique (2012). Environmental Scoping Assessment Report, Tete Iron Project. Report for Capitol Resources. IUCN 2012.

EcoInfo cc & Associates (2012). Biodiversity Report for the Baobab Resources Iron Mining Area near Tete, Mozambique. Commissioned by Coffey Environments

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2012.2. . Downloaded on 30 May 2013.

EkoInfo cc & Associates 2012. Specialist: Biodiversity Report for the Baobab Resources’ Iron Mining Area near Tete, Mozambique. Internal Report commissioned by Coffey Environments for the Environmental Scoping Assessment Report for the Tete Iron Project.

Kemper, N. 1999. Intermediate Habitat Integrity Assessment for use in the Rapid and Intermediate Assessments. In: Resource Directed Measures for the Protection of Water Resources. Volume 3: River Ecosystems. Version 1.0. DWAF P. Bag X313, Pretoria 001. Kleynhans, C.J. 1996. A Qualitative Procedure for the Assessment of the Habitat Integrity Status of the Luvuvhu River (Limpopo system, South Africa). J. Aquat. Ecosystem Health. 5: 1-14. Nel, J.L., Smith-Adao, L., Roux, D. J., Adams, J., Cambray, J.A., de Moor, F.C., Kleynhans, C.J., Kotze, I., Maree, G., Moolman, J., Schonegevel, L.. Y, Smith, R.J., Thirion, C. (2006). Conservation Planning for River and Estuarine Biodiversity in the Fish-to-Tsitsikamma Water Management Area. Water Research Commission Report TT 280/06, Pretoria, South Africa.

Singler, A. & Graber, B. (2005) Eds. Massachusetts Stream crossing Handbook. Massachusetts Riverways Programme. www.streamcontinuity.org. 11pp. Skelton, P. H. 2001. A complete guide to the freshwater fishes of southern Africa. Struik Publishers, Cape Town. South Africa. 388 pp. .

Ten Kate, K, Bishop, J, and Byon, R. (2004). Biodiversity offsets: Views, experience and the business case. IUCN, Gland Switzerland & Cambridge, UK and Insight Investment, London, UK

Whitfield, A.K. & Paterson, A.W. 1995. Flood-associated mass mortality of fishes in the Sundays River. Water SA 21: 385-389.

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APPENDIX 1

Details of fish sampling sites and fishing effort for the Revuboe, Nhambia (and tributaries) and the Ncondezi rivers during both the wet season (March) and dry season (September) in 2013 surveys of the Tete Iron Project Study Area

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SITE RE 1

Co-ordinates: 150 44’ 43.2” S; 330 45’ 37.3” E Altitude: 275 m Site Locality/Name: Near confluence of Revuboe and Nhambia rivers. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL14 River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: Revuboe Dates: 13/03/2013, 14/03/2013 and 15/09/2013

A. Summary of catch data:

Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

 Pools at the Revuboe-  Gill nets; long-  Long lines, gill nets and See Table 2 Nhambia confluence lines & fyke net fyke net left overnight; (wet season) (wet season)  River channel  Large seine net  100 m seine net used upstream of confluence used by locals by locals (dry season) (dry season)

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Sampling site located at confluence of Revuboe and Nhambia rivers (wet season) and upstream of Nhambia confluence in Revuboe River channel (dry season)

Stream-flow Wet season: Strong river flow at time of sampling in Revuboe but static in Nhambia. Dry season: low flow in main channel of Revuboe, but NO flow at all in Nhambia. Water quality Wet season: Water muddy brown due to high flows in Revuboe, but clear in Nhambia. Dry season: clear in Revuboe. Habitats Sampled Wet season: sampled both in the deep fast flowing sections of the Revuboe and the deep, static pool in the Nhambia. Dry season: shallow, sandy pool and run in main channel of Revuboe.

C. Remarks Local knowledge: crocodiles in main channel of river, thus avoided by locals in wet season when deep water present.

A B

Rev 1. Lower site in the Revuboe River March 2013 laying gill nets from a boat in the wet season on 12/3/2013 (A) and in the dry season showing local fishermen using a large seine net on 15/9/2013 (B).

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 34 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE RE 2

Co-ordinates: 150 43’ 30.6” S; 330 45’ 54.0” E Altitude: 282 m Site Locality/Name: Opposite base of Tenge Mountain. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL13 River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: side channel of Revuboe Dates: 12/03/2013. (NOT sampled in dry season as no boat available and presence of large crocodiles)

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Sandy moderately deep Gill nets & fyke  Gill nets and fyke net left See Table 2 side channel nets for 5 hours in day

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Side channel off main channel of Revuboe River

Stream-flow Strong river flow (fast to moderate) at time of sampling. Water quality: Water high turbid with muddy brown colour due to high flows Habitats Sampled Sampled the moderately deep side channel with fast to moderate flow

C. Remarks Local knowledge: crocodiles in main channel of river, thus avoided by locals.

Site Re 2. :Gill nets placed in a side channel of the Revuboe River during the wet season (12/3/2013).

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 35 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE RE 3

Co-ordinates: 150 42’ 54.5” S; 330 46’ 26.4” E Altitude: 298 m Site Locality/Name: Approximately 100 to 600m upstream of crossing point. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL09 River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: main channel of Revuboe Dates: 09/03/2013and 14/09/2013

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

 Main channel of the, more  Gill nets & long  Gill nets and long line set See Table 2 than 2 m deep line overnight  Main channel of Revuboe. 2m deep  Gill nets  Gill nets set for 2 hours

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of the Revuboe River a) Wet season – using boat in deep water 600m u/s of pont; b) Dry season – using dug-out canoe 100m upstream of pont

Stream-flow Wet Season: strong, fast river flow at time of sampling. Dry season: slow-flowing pool. Water quality Wet Season: water high turbidity with muddy brown colour due to high flows. Dry season: clear water, but brown stain from vegetation. Habitats Sampled In main channel along river bank.

C. Remarks Local knowledge: Juvenile crocodile caught in nets in wet season – Adult crocodiles common in main channel of river, thus avoided by locals. Adult crocodile seen in water 150m upstream of pont on 14/09/2013.

B

A

Site Re 3 located in main channel of the Revuboe River showing wet season (A) and dry season (B).

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 36 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE RE 4

Co-ordinates: 150 41’ 50.6” S; 330 47’ 16.2” E Altitude: 286 m Site Locality/Name: Approximately 4km upstream of crossing point. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL07 River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: main channel of Revuboe Dates: 09/03/2013 (Not sampled in dry season due to lack of a boat and presence of large crocodiles)

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Main channel of the Gill nets Gill nets overnight See Table 2 Revuboe

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of the Revuboe River, dense fringe of Phragmites reeds along banks, silt and muddy substrate

Stream-flow Strong, fast river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water high turbidity with muddy brown colour due to high flows Habitats Sampled Sampled both in deep, flowing pool near the bank

C. Remarks Local knowledge: Adult crocodiles common in main channel of river, thus avoided by locals

Site Re 4. Main channel of the Revuboe River. Note dense fringe of Phragmites reeds along banks.

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 37 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE RE 5

Co-ordinates: 150 41’ 32.9” S; 330 47’ 37.7” E Altitude: 304 m Site Locality/Name: Crocodile creek. Approximately 5 km upstream of crossing point. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL08 River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: main channel of Revuboe Dates: 09/03/2013 (NOT sampled in dry season as no boat available)

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Meeting point of side Gill nets Gill nets set overnight See Table 2 channel and Revuboe main channel

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Side channel of the Revuboe River, dense fringe of Phragmites reeds along banks, muddy/silty substrate

Stream-flow Fast river flow in side channel to very fast in main channel at time of sampling. Water quality Water high turbidity with muddy brown colour due to high flows. Habitats Sampled Sampled both in deep water, & flowing pool near the bank.

C. Remarks Local knowledge: Tigerfish (Hydrocynus vittatus) abundant at site. Adult crocodiles common in main channel of river, thus avoided by locals

Site Re 5. Gill nets set in side channel off main-stem of the Revuboe River.

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 38 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE Nc 1

Co-ordinates: 150 41’ 50.6” S; 330 47’ 16.2” E Altitude: 286 m Site Locality/Name: Road crossing over 2nd tributary stream from Massamba on road to Tete. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL11 River System: Zambezi River: Nhambia Tributary Ncacame Dates: 10/03/2013 (Not sampled in dry season as dry river bed – see photograph below)

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Pools and riffles below Seine net and 50 m stream reach below See Table 2 bridge electro-fisher drift

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of small tributary river, dense woody riparian vegetation with boulders, cobbles, gravel & sand. Minimal human impact observed.

Stream-flow Moderate river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water clear with low silt load Habitats Sampled Sampled both in shallow runs and pools and fast flowing riffles.

C. Remarks Local knowledge: No information

A B

Site Nc 1. At road crossing over the Ncacama River on the road from Massamba to Tete in wet season on 10 March 2013 (A) and in the dry season on 13 September 2013 (B).

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 39 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE Ts 1

Co-ordinates: 150 41’ 7.9” S; 330 40’ 22.5” E Altitude: 317 m Site Locality/Name: Tshissi River Bridge over 1st tributary stream from Massamba on road to Tete. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL12 River System: Zambezi River: Nhambia (a tributary of Revuboe R.) Tributary: Tshissi Dates: 11/03/2013 (NO sampling in dry season as no surface water present – see photograph below)

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Pools and backwaters Seine net, electro- 50m stream reach below See Table 2 fisher & fyke nets drift

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of small tributary river, dense woody riparian vegetation with boulders and cobbles. Minimal human impact observed.

Stream-flow Very low river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water clear with low silt load Habitats Sampled Sampled both in shallow runs and pools.

C. Remarks & Photographs

A B

Site Ts 1. Tshissi tributary of the Nhambia R. looking and upstream of road bridge in the wet season on 11 March 2013 (A) and in the dry season on 13 September 2013 (B).

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 40 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE Nh 1

Co-ordinates: 150 36’ 55.5” S; 330 40’ 3.5” E Altitude: 343 m Site Locality/Name: First bridge over Nhambia River tributary from Massamba Camp on road to Massamba Village and Tete. SAIAB Field No.: AC13AL10 River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: Nhambia Dates: 10/03/2013 (No sampling in dry season as no surface water present).

A. Summary of catch data: Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Sandy pools below Electro-fisher 10 m reach below bridge See Table 2 bridge

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Small pool in largely dry river bed with sandy substrate in seasonal river.

Stream-flow No surface river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water clear with low silt load Habitats Sampled Sampled shallow pool below road bridge.

C. Remarks Local knowledge: No information obtained.

A B

Site Nh 1 at road bridge over the Nhambia River, downstream (A) and upstream (B) of bridge in the wet season (10 March 2013).

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 41 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE Ncond 1

Co-ordinates: S 150 49’ 32.2”; E 330 58’ 52.0” Altitude: 280 m Site Locality/Name: Cobble causeway/drift crossing over Ncondezi Rive on road from Baobab Tenge camp to Ncondezi camp (coal mine). River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: Ncondezi tributary Dates: 16/09/13 (NO sampling in wet season – as road impassable)

A. Summary of catch data:

Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Shallow riffle and pool at Seine net and dip 2 X 20m pulls at drift See Table 2. SAIAB DNA samples and downstream of road nets AC13-A272; AC13-A298 crossing

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of river at road crossing made by placement of cobbles and rocks in river bed. Woody riparian vegetation but evidence of clearing and human impact observed at site itself.

Stream-flow Medium river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water clear with low silt load Habitats Sampled Sampled both in shallow riffle on stony drift and in downstream pool.

C. Remarks Local knowledge: Local fisherman reported catching adult eels at this locality; reported fish migrate from downstream over drift in summer when catches are made, but in the previous summer low flows resulted in few fish moving up the river.

A B

Ncond1site showing road drift (A) and upstream of drift (B) viewed from the right bank

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 42 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE Ncond 2

Co-ordinates: S 150 51’ 22.1”; E 330 56’ 02.9” Altitude: 270 m Site Locality/Name: Cobble causeway road crossing 9.2 km downstream of Ncond 1 site. River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: Ncondezi tributary Dates: 16/09/13 (NO sampling in wet season – as road impassable)

A. Summary of catch data:

Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Shallow riffle and pool at Seine net and dip 30m stream at drift See Table 2. SAIAB DNA samples and downstream of road nets AC13-A250; AC13-A254; AC13- crossing A297

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of river at an old river crossing made by placement of cobbles and rocks in river bed. Evidence of human impact on river bed and riparian zones observed at site itself.

Stream-flow Medium river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water clear with low silt load Habitats Sampled Sampled both in shallow riffle on stony drift and in downstream and upstream pool. Sand substrate in pools and cobbles at drift.

C. Remarks Local fishers (young boys and girls) using minnow seine nets (mosquito mesh) , and adults will large dip nets seen fishing at site.

A B

Cond 2 site viewed from the left bank showing road drift (A) and shallow run below drift.

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 43 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

SITE Ncond 3

Co-ordinates: S 150 52’ 9.1”; E 330 50’ 11.8” Altitude: 258m Site Locality/Name: Near small village 13.8 km downstream of Ncond. 2 site. River System: Zambezi River: Revuboe Tributary: Ncondezi tributary Dates: 17/09/13 (NO sampling in wet season – as road impassable)

A. Summary of catch data:

Habitat Gear Fishing Effort Species caught

Shallow riffle and rapid in Seine net and dip 30m stream See Table 2. mid-channel and shallow nets pools along margins road crossing

B. Description of localities sampled and methods used Site Description Main channel of river in riffle/rapid. Very little evidence of human impact , but some disturbance of riparian zones observed near site.

Stream-flow Medium river flow at time of sampling. Water quality Water clear with low silt load Habitats Sampled Sampled both in shallow riffle rapid area and shallow margins among rocks. Sandy, rocky substrate.

C. Remarks Local villagers use seine, gill and dip-nets and angling to catch fish for own use.

A B

Ncond 3 site looking upstream (A) and downstream (B) towards shallow riffle areas.

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 44 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

APPENDIX 2

Photographs of 25 fish species caught in the Tete Iron Project Study Area during the fish surveys 9 - 13 March 2013 and 13 - 17 September 2013.

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 45 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

Photographs of fish species caught in the Baobab Tete Study Area during the fish surveys in March and September 2013.

Barbus paludinosus Barbus radiatus

Barbus trimaculatus Barbus vivaparus

Barbus afrohamiltoni Barbus lineomaculatus

Brycinus imberi Heterobranchus longifilis

Clarias gariepinus Microlestes acutidens

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 46 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

Hydrocynus vittatus Labeo altivelis

Labeo cylindricus Labeo molybdinus

Labeobarbus marequensis Cyphomyrus discorhynchus

Mormyrops anguilloides Opsaridium zambezenze

Oreochromis placidus Oreochromis mossambicus

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 47 Tete Iron Ore Project Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

Tilapia rendalli Synodontus zambezensis

Schilbe intermedius

Chiloglanis cf. neumanni Zairechthys cf. monomotopa

Coastal & Environmental Services (Pty) Ltd 48 Tete Iron Ore Project APPENDIX 3

Habitat Integrity for the Revuboe River within the Tete Iron Project Mining Study Area and the Ncondezi River potentially impacted by the haul road options

Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1. METHODOLOGY i 1.1 Background i 1.2 Description of Methodology i 1.3 Description of protocol used in present study v

2. RESULTS v 2.1 Revuboe River v 2.1.1 Instream Habitat Integrity v 2.1.1 Riparian Habitat Integrity vi 2.2 Ncondezi River vi 2.2.1 Instream Habitat Integrity vi 2.2.2 Riparian Habitat Integrity vii

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Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

Habitat Integrity Assessment of the Revuboe and Ncondezi River reaches potentially affected by the Tete Iron project

1 METHODOLOGY 1.1 Background The procedure used for the assessment of the Habitat Integrity of the approximately 8 km of the Revuboe River falling within the Tete Iron mining area, and the approximately 23 km reach of the Ncondezi River, follows that developed by Kleynhans (1996) and Kemper (1999). This method is widely used in South Africa to assist in assessing the severity of anthropogenic impacts and determining the present ecological status of rivers. The methodology is based on the qualitative assessment of a number of pre-weighted criteria which indicate the integrity of the in-stream and riparian habitats available for use by riverine biota.

The methodology was initially developed for use with the aid of a continuous aerial video of the river taken from a low-flying helicopter or small aeroplane. For convenience, the study area is usually divided up into 5km reaches by the assessor, and the standardized scoring of the various criteria used was applied separately to each 5m reach.

However, this methodology can be applied to ground-based assessments using selected sites within the particular reach, and extrapolation to the entire reach being assessed. In this study of the Revuboe and Ncondezi rivers, Google Earth images were also used to assess the riparian vegetation and instream habitats, as well as the general condition of the catchments. The lack of detailed assessment of the riparian zones along large sections of the river reaches in question, however, does reduce the confidence levels of these assessments.

1.2 Description of Methodology

Table B1 details the criteria used in the assessment of the habitat integrity. The criteria considered indicative of the habitat integrity of the river were selected on the basis that anthropogenic modification of their characteristics can generally be regarded as the primary causes of degradation of the integrity of the river. The severity of certain modifications will, therefore, have a detrimental impact on the habitat integrity of a river.

The assessment of the severity of impact of modifications is based on six descriptive categories with ratings ranging from 0 (no impact), 1 to 5 (small impact), 6 to 10 (moderate impact), 11 to 15 (large impact), 16 to 20 (serious impact) and 21 to 25 (critical impact). A five point rating system is used to facilitate scoring flexibility within a category. Scoring is guided by a description of the severity of the impact of the modification for each score (Table B2).

The habitat integrity assessment is based on two perspectives of the river, the riparian zone and the instream channel. Assessments are made separately for both aspects, but data for the riparian zone are primarily interpreted in terms of the potential impact on the instream component. The relative weightings of criteria remain the same as for the assessment of habitat integrity and are detailed in Table B3.

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Table B1: Criteria used in the assessment of habitat integrity (from Kleynhans, 1996).

CRITERION RELEVANCE

Water Direct impact on habitat type, abundance and size. Also implicated in flow, abstraction bed, channel and water quality characteristics. Riparian vegetation may be influenced by a decrease in the supply of water. Flow Consequence of abstraction or regulation by impoundments. Changes in modification temporal and spatial characteristics of flow can have an impact on habitat attributes such as an increase in duration of low flow season, resulting in low availability of certain habitat types or water at the start of the breeding, flowering or growing season. Bed Regarded as the result of increased input of sediment from the catchment modification or a decrease in the ability of the river to transport sediment. Indirect indications of sedimentation are stream bank and catchment erosion. Purposeful alteration of the stream bed, e.g. the removal of rapids for navigation is also included. Channel May be the result of a change in flow, which may alter channel modification characteristics causing a change in marginal instream and riparian habitat. Purposeful channel modification to improve drainage is also included. Water quality Originates from point and diffuse point sources. Measured directly or using modification agricultural activities, human settlements and industrial activities which may indicate the likelihood of modification. Aggravated by a decrease in the volume of water during low or no flow conditions. Inundation Destruction of riffle, rapid and riparian zone habitat. Obstruction to the movement of aquatic fauna and influences water quality and the movement of sediments. Exotic Alteration of habitat by obstruction of flow and may influence water quality. macrophytes Dependent upon the species involved and scale of infestation. Exotic aquatic The disturbance of the stream bottom during feeding may influence the fauna water quality and increase turbidity. Dependent upon the species involved and their abundance. Solid waste A direct anthropogenic impact which may alter habitat structurally. Also a disposal general indication of the misuse and mismanagement of the river. Indigenous Impairment of the buffer the vegetation forms to the movement of sediment vegetation and other catchment runoff products into the river. Refers to physical removal removal for farming, firewood and overgrazing. Exotic Excludes natural vegetation due to vigorous growth, causing bank instability vegetation and decreasing the buffering function of the riparian zone. Allochtonous encroachment organic matter input will also be changed. Riparian zone habitat diversity is also reduced. Bank erosion Decrease in bank stability will cause sedimentation and possible collapse of the river bank resulting in a loss or modification of both instream and riparian habitats. Increased erosion can be the result of natural vegetation removal, overgrazing, footpaths, game/stock paths to water’s edge or exotic vegetation encroachment.

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Table B2: Descriptive classes for the assessment of modifications to habitat integrity (from Kleynhans, 1996).

IMPACT DESCRIPTION SCORE CATEGORY

None No discernible impact, or the modification is located in such a 0 way that it has no impact on habitat quality, diversity, size and variability.

Small The modification is limited to very few localities and the 1 - 5 impact on habitat quality, diversity, size and variability are also very small.

Moderate The modifications are present at a small number of localities 6 - 10 and the impact on habitat quality, diversity, size and variability are also limited.

Large The modification is generally present with a clearly 11 - 15 detrimental impact on habitat quality, diversity, size and variability. Large areas are, however, not influenced.

Serious The modification is frequently present and the habitat quality, 16 - 20 diversity, size and variability in almost the whole of the defined area are affected. Only small areas are not influenced.

Critical The modification is present overall with a high intensity. The 21 - 25 habitat quality, diversity, size and variability in almost the whole of the defined section are influenced detrimentally.

Table B3: Criteria and weights used for the assessment of intream and riparian habitat integrity (from Kleynhans, 1996).

INSTREAM CRITERIA WEIGHT RIPARIAN ZONE CRITERIA WEIGHT Water abstraction 14 Indigenous vegetation removal 13

Flow modification 13 Exotic vegetation encroachment 12 Bed modification 13 Bank erosion 14 Channel modification 13 Channel modification 12

Water quality 14 Water abstraction 13 Inundation 10 Inundation 11 Exotic macrophytes 9 Flow modification 12

Exotic fauna 8 Water quality 13 Solid waste disposal 6 TOTAL 100 TOTAL 100

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Based on the relative weights of the criteria, the impacts of each criterion are estimated as follows: Rating for the criterion /maximum value (25) x weight (percent) Example: for a criterion which receives a rating of 10 in the assessment, with a weighting of 14 is calculated as follows: 10/25 x 14 = 5.6

The estimated impacts of all criteria calculated in this way are summed, expressed as a percentage and subtracted from 100 to arrive at a provisional assessment of habitat integrity for the instream and riparian components respectively. However, in cases where riparian zone criteria and the water abstraction, flow, bed and channel modification, water quality and inundation criteria of the instream component exceeded ratings of large, serious or critical, an additional negative weight was applied. The aim of this is to accommodate the possible cumulative effect (and integrated) negative effects of such impacts. The following rules are applied in this respect:  Impact = Large, lower integrity status by 33 percent of the weight for each criterion with such a rating.  Impact = Serious, lower integrity status by 67 percent of the weight for each criterion with such a rating.  Impact = Critical, lower the integrity status by 100 percent of the weight for each criterion with such a rating. The negative weights are added for the instream and riparian facets respectively and the total additional negative weight subtracted from the provisionally determined habitat integrity to arrive at a final habitat integrity estimate. The eventual total scores for the instream and riparian zone components are then used to place the habitat integrity in of both in a specific habitat integrity category. These categories are given in Table B4.

Table B4. A description of the habitat integrity categories (from Kleynhans, 1996). CATE- DESCRIPTION SCORE GORY (% OF TOTAL) A Unmodified, natural. 90-100 B Largely natural with few modifications. A small change in 80-89 natural habitats and biota may have taken place but the ecosystem functions are essentially unchanged. C Moderately modified. A loss and change of natural habitat 60-79 and biota have occurred but the basic ecosystem functions are still predominantly unchanged. D Largely modified. A large loss of natural habitat, biota and 40-59 basic ecosystem functions has occurred. E The loss of natural habitat, biota and basic ecosystem 20-39 functions is extensive.

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1.3 Description of protocol used in present study

In the present study, the 8 km reach of the Revuboe River within the Tete Iron Project mining area and a 23 km reach of the Ncondezi River potentially impacted by the haul roads, were assessed as described above. The Habitat integrity scores were then determined for these reaches by the application of the standardised approach and scoring of assessment criteria.

The assessment of the criteria was largely achieved by the careful scrutiny by the assessor of the river reach by means of available Google aerial photos, observations from suitable vantage points, and surveys of specific sites considered to be representative of the reaches under study. The results are given below and discussed further in the main text of the report.

2. RESULTS

2.1 REVUBOE RIVER 2.1.1 Instream Habitat Integrity

SEGMENT/SITE Revuboe R

PRIMARY IMPACT SCORE: WATER ABSTRACTION 0 NONE = 0 FLOW MODIFICATION 0 SMALL = 1-5 BED MODIFICATION 12 MOD. = 6-10 CHANNEL MODIFICATION 0 LARGE = 11-15 WATER QUALITY 6 SERIOUS = 16-20 CRITICAL = 21-25 INUNDATION 0

TOTAL (OUT OF 150) 18

SECONDARY Instream Weighted Evaluation:

EXOTIC MACROPHYTES 0 Negative load Conservation Status: 86.6 (B) EXOTIC FAUNA 0 RUBBISH DUMPING 1 TOTAL (OUT OF 75) 1

2.1.2 Riparian Habitat Integrity SCORE SEGMENT/SITE REVUBOE RIVER VEGETATION REMOVAL 16 NONE = 0 EXOTIC VEGETATION 0 SMALL = 1-5 BANK EROSION 8 MODERATE = 6-10 CHANNEL MODIFICATION 2 LARGE = 11-15 WATER ABSTRACTION 0 SERIOUS = 16-20 INUNDATION 0 CRITICAL = 21-25 FLOW MODIFICATION 0 WATER QUALITY 4 Riparian Weighted Evaluation:

TOTAL (OUT OF 200) 30 Negative Load Conservation Status: 70 v(C)

Ichthyology and Baseline Aquatic Habitat Study - April 2015

2.2 NCONDEZI RIVER

2.2.1 Instream Habitat Integrity

SEGMENT/SITE Ncondezi R

PRIMARY IMPACT SCORE: WATER ABSTRACTION 0 NONE = 0 FLOW MODIFICATION 0 SMALL = 1-5 BED MODIFICATION 10 MOD. = 6-10 CHANNEL MODIFICATION 2 LARGE = 11-15 WATER QUALITY 4 SERIOUS = 16-20 CRITICAL = 21-25 INUNDATION 0

TOTAL (OUT OF 150) 16

SECONDARY Instream Weighted Evaluation:

EXOTIC MACROPHYTES 0 Negative load Conservation Status: 89.5 (B) EXOTIC FAUNA 0 RUBBISH DUMPING 1 TOTAL (OUT OF 75) 1

2.2.2 Riparian Habitat Integrity

SEGMENT/SITE NCONDEZI RIVER SCORE VEGETATION REMOVAL 10 NONE = 0 EXOTIC VEGETATION 0 SMALL = 1-5 BANK EROSION 5 MODERATE = 6-10 CHANNEL MODIFICATION 2 LARGE = 11-15 WATER ABSTRACTION 0 SERIOUS = 16-20 INUNDATION 0 CRITICAL = 21-25 FLOW MODIFICATION 0 WATER QUALITY 4 Riparian Weighted Evaluation: TOTAL (OUT OF 200) 30 Negative Load Conservation Status: 89 (B

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