The Makambako Gap is considered an important barrier separating distinct biogeographical regions - the Eastern Arc Mountains and the Southern Highlands. Both areas are part of the Afromontane biodiversity region - a world recognised biodiversity hotspot. The distinction of these two areas is not well understood and has been argued might be an artificial one. In this project I will look at a number of endemic species (ca. 4 species) that cross these areas and examine their phylogeographic patterns to test whether both areas are distinct or not. Because the afromontane habitats consist of a complex mosaic of forest and grassland habitats I will examine species that occur in both types of habitats - and assess differences in the biogeographic history of these areas which will provide important insights on a similarities and differences in these predicted to be complex evolutionary history of these habitats. Overall, the aim is to quantitatively assess the importance of the Makambako Gap as a barrier restricting dispersal of species between the Eastern Arc Mountains and the Southern Highlands (Afromontane biodiversity hotspot). The field research plan includes students undertaking their Master’s research from both University of Basel, Switzerland and University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Therefore, the funding will also contribute towards training students in field and laboratory based techniques in biogeography.