Encephalartos mackenziei
Overview
Encephalartos mackenziei is a species of cycad in South Sudan. It is found in the Didinga Hills of Namorunyang State.
Encephalartos mackenziei faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, with mature plants commanding extremely high prices that drive continued poaching from wild populations. Habitat degradation through agricultural expansion and human settlement development has further reduced available growing sites. The species' extremely slow growth rate and limited reproductive capacity make recovery from population losses exceptionally difficult, while climate change threatens to alter the specific environmental conditions required for successful regeneration.
Habitat
This cycad species inhabits rocky outcrops and steep slopes in grassland and savanna regions of South Africa, typically growing in well-drained soils among scattered trees and shrubs. It occurs at elevations where it receives adequate rainfall but benefits from the protection of rocky terrain that provides some shelter from extreme weather conditions.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in ZAMIACEAE
Threatened in South Sudan
Frequently asked questions
Why is Encephalartos mackenziei classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Encephalartos mackenziei live?
What are the main threats to Encephalartos mackenziei?
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