PJB-2021-410
Threats and traditional approaches to the conservation of selected threatened or protected plants in the Limpopo province, South Africa
Marula Rasethe, Michèle Pfab and Martin Potgieter
Abstract
Harvesting wild indigenous plants for traditional medicinal purposes is a common practice in various areas across South Africa, including in Limpopo province. Traditional medicines are derived from various wild plant resources, some of which are protected by legislation. The aim of this study was to assesss the anthropogenic threats and traditional approaches to the conservation of six medicinal plant species protected by the Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) Regulations, promulgated in terms of the National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 10 of 2004 (NEMBA). Data were gathered via semi-structured questionnaires and field observations across the five districts of the Limpopo province. Findings indicated that overexploitation and destructive harvesting methods are the main factors threatening the survival of the six study species. Participants suggested the cultivation of these species and various conservation strategies, including the introduction of a permit system and plant reintroduction, as fundamental to the long-term conservation of the species. A biodiversity management plan as provided for by NEMBA would be a useful mechanism to ensure the future sustainability of these valuable plant resources.
To Cite this article:
Rasethe, M., M. Pfab and M. Potgieter. 2023. Threats and traditional approaches to the conservation of selected threatened or protected plants in the Limpopo province, South Africa. Pak. J. Bot., 55(6): DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.30848/PJB2023-6(3)
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