The provision of food, shelter, and breeding grounds for diverse species of mammals and birds in the Ngorongoro crater depends greatly on these vegetation types. The availability of food and fodder that is suitable for grazing and browsing influences the distribution and habitat preferences of the herbivores. 

Other key areas include Ndutu Plains, Olduvai Gorge, Olmoti Crater, Empakaai Crater, and Orkarien Gorge. These are the crucial ecological areas where the NCA’s ecosystem boasts a wealth of biodiversity.