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Scientific Name | Conophytum comptonii N.E.Br. |
Higher Classification | Dicotyledons |
Family | AIZOACEAE |
National Status |
Status and Criteria | Near Threatened B1ab(v)+2ab(v) |
Assessment Date | 2020/02/11 |
Assessor(s) | A.J. Young |
Justification | A range-restricted habitat specialist endemic to Bokkeveld Sandstone Fynbos (extent of occurrence (EOO) 1236 km², area of occupancy (AOO) 56 - 100km²). Known from 10-15 locations and it is declining due to illegal succulent collecting. It therefore qualifies for listing as Near Threatened under Criterion B. |
Distribution |
Endemism | South African endemic |
Provincial distribution | Northern Cape, Western Cape |
Range | information redacted, contact SANBI |
Habitat and Ecology |
Major system | Terrestrial |
Major habitats | Fynbos |
Description | Shallow, seasonally wet gritty pans on sandstone outcrops in Bokkeveld Sandstone Fynbos. |
Threats |
| Sandstone fynbos along the top of the Bokkeveld Escarpment is extensively cultivated, however, this species' particular niche habitat is unsuitable to cultivation, and it is unlikely to be impacted by agricultural expansion. So while safe from cultivation unfortunately this species is highly sought after by collectors, there has been a recent significant increase in illegal collecting linked with a surge in demand for these plants facilitated by online platforms such as eBay. |
Population |
Conophytum comptonii is known from many subpopulations, and is locally abundant in suitable habitat. The population size is estimated to exceed 5000 individuals, and is declining.
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Population trend | Decreasing |
Assessment History |
Taxon assessed |
Status and Criteria |
Citation/Red List version | | Conophytum comptonii N.E.Br. | Least Concern | Raimondo et al. (2009) | |
Bibliography |
Goldblatt, P. and Manning, J.C. 2000. Cape Plants: A conspectus of the Cape Flora of South Africa. Strelitzia 9. National Botanical Institute, Cape Town.
Hammer, S. 2002. Dumpling and his wife: New view of the genus Conophytum. EAE Creative Colour, Norwich.
Hammer, S.A. 1993. The genus Conophytum: A conograph. Succulent Plant Publications, Pretoria.
Manning, J.C. and Goldblatt, P. 2012. Plants of the Greater Cape Floristic Region 1: The Core Cape Flora. Strelitzia 29. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
Raimondo, D., von Staden, L., Foden, W., Victor, J.E., Helme, N.A., Turner, R.C., Kamundi, D.A. and Manyama, P.A. 2009. Red List of South African Plants. Strelitzia 25. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
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Citation |
| Young, A.J. 2020. Conophytum comptonii N.E.Br. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. Accessed on 2023/12/03 |
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