Biodiversity Crime in the Western Cape: A Focus on Indigenous Succulent Plants
The Western Cape is an international biodiversity hotspot, and some of the plants and animals found here occur naturally nowhere else in the world. Sadly, this makes our province an attractive destination for wildlife traffickers. Two of the most targeted commodities are indigenous succulent plants and reptiles. CapeNature is committed to working with key stakeholders and partner organisations in law enforcement to protect our unique and precious ecosystems and ensure their survival for future generations.
Indigenous plants are a unique and vital part of our biodiversity. They play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of our ecosystems, and the decline of specific species is of concern. The illegal trade in several types of succulent plants threatens the survival of these species.
Species from the genus Conophytum and the genus Anacampseros are frequently targeted. The methods used to poach these plants are destructive, involving uprooting entire plants or cutting off stems, leading to permanent damage or death and harm to associated ecosystems.
Both locally and internationally, the illegal trade of succulents is driven by high demand. In February 2023 more species of plants, including all species of the genus Conophytum, were added to Appendix 3 of the Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). This means that there are enhanced international controls applicable to the trade in such plants.
CapeNature urges the public to help combat biodiversity crime by reporting any suspicious activity related to the illegal trade in indigenous succulent plants to the nearest police station or CapeNature on 087 087 9262 or contact the CRIME STOP TIP-OFF-LINE on 086 00 10111.
Monilaria chrysoleuca
Conophytum minutum var pearsonii
Related News
Get CapeNature’s 40% winter discount on your next getaway!
Pack your bags, grab the essentials and head towards one of CapeNature’s pristine reserves for your next winter holiday, and take advantage of our spectacular 40% saving on select self-catering accommodation and campsites.
Collaborative Conservation benefits the Stony Point African Penguin Colony
In the heart of Betty’s Bay lies the Stony Point African Penguin colony, a critical breeding ground for these beloved seabirds. This colony has become a beacon of hope thanks to the collaborative efforts of several key partners: CapeNature, SANCCOB, Dyer Island Conservation Trust (DICT)/African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-SA), and the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. Together, these entities have implemented an integrated programme that has positively impacted the local penguin population.
Another first for the Cape mountain zebra genetic rescue project
The Cape mountain zebra known as GB42 has had an exciting year! In January, this stallion from Gamkaberg Nature Reserve sired a foal with genetic material from two of the three genetically distinct stocks of the species. In March, there was proof that 2023 was a busy year for GB42 after a second foal was born with genes from all three stocks.
CapeNature shines bright at WTM as attendance grows
World Travel Market (WTM) Africa concluded with impressive momentum, reflecting a 53% increase in attendees, indicating robust growth in African tourism.
Unusual bird species welcomed at CapeNature’s Bird Island this summer
CapeNature’s Bird Island Nature Reserve in Lambert’s Bay, known for its stunning seafront vistas and diverse birdlife, recently hosted unexpected visitors that sent bird enthusiasts into a frenzy. In a rare sighting, four Australasian Gannets and two Brown Boobies made a surprise visit to the island.
The importance of our natural water sources and Water Day 2024
It is widely known that South Africa, and in particular the Western Cape, suffers from water scarcity. This reality underscores the critical need to prioritise the conservation of freshwater ecosystems and their catchments to ensure a sustainable supply of water for both biodiversity and human consumption. The provision of water is categorised as one of the ecosystem services offered by natural freshwater ecosystems.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?