Conservation in the context of wildflower harvesting: the development and implementation of a Vulnerability Index on the Agulhas Plain of South Africa

Abstract

This paper focuses upon the role that science-based interventions allied to effective regulatory regimes can play in reducing the threat posed by inappropriate harvesting of wild flora. A Vulnerability Index (VI) has been developed for 150 natural fynbos species that exist on South Africa's Agulhas Plain, where intense wildflower harvesting occurs. The methodology underpinning the generation of the VI is outlined and justified in this paper. The VI comprises a range of characteristics relating to species distribution and biology that are likely to influence vulnerability to harvesting. The VI is proving to be an important tool for regulating the harvesting of wild fynbos and maintaining the resilience of natural ecosystems threatened by climate change. Furthermore, economic development and livelihood stability are promoted by protecting the resource base of marketable species. The paper discusses issues that have arisen relating to the application and rollout of the VI in practice.

Range‐wide population viability analyses reveal high sensitivity to wildflower harvesting in extreme environments

“…The differentiated responses of population viability to harvesting which are often associated with extreme environmental conditions and range limits (Figures 4-6) caution against the application of a uniform harvesting guideline across species ranges. Geographically differentiated harvesting guidelines should be developed at a local scale while considering the socio-economic implications, since wildflower harvesting supports many rural livelihoods in the study region (Privett et al, 2020;Van Wilgen et al, 2016).…”

“…The harvesting of wildflowers is an important and rapidly expanding industry in the Cape Floristic Region (CFR, South Africa) biodiversity hotspot, providing employment and income for many rural communities. The economic value of exported CFR wildflowers is estimated to be at least US$16 million gross income per year (Privett et al, 2020). Most target species of the wildflower industry are Proteaceae shrubs with large, attractive inflorescences that are harvested for both domestic and international markets (Turpie et al, 2003).…”