VU

Encephalartos schaijesii

Declining

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Encephalartos schaijesii faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, as cycads are highly prized by collectors worldwide. The species' extremely limited distribution in the Lebombo Mountains makes entire populations vulnerable to over-harvesting. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and human settlement development further threatens the remaining wild populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cycad species is endemic to the Lebombo Mountains along the border between South Africa and Swaziland, where it grows in rocky grassland and bushveld habitats. It typically occurs on steep, rocky slopes and cliff faces in areas with well-drained soils.

Savanna· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recoveryAwareness & communicationsLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Encephalartos schaijesii classified as Vulnerable?
Encephalartos schaijesii is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Encephalartos schaijesii faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, as cycads are highly prized by collectors worldwide. The species' extremely limited distribution in the Lebombo Mountains makes entire populations vulnerable to over-harvesting. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and human settlement development further threatens the remaining wild populations.
Where does Encephalartos schaijesii live?
Encephalartos schaijesii occurs in Congo - Brazzaville, Congo - Kinshasa, and Zambia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Encephalartos schaijesii?
The main threats to Encephalartos schaijesii are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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