Luc Strydom (2025) Secrets in the Lowland Thicket of Nelson Mandela Bay скачать в хорошем качестве

Luc Strydom (2025) Secrets in the Lowland Thicket of Nelson Mandela Bay

Aim. Having extensively explored the lowland thicket habitats around Nelson Mandela Bay, I have amassed a significant database of species records, particularly rare and/or threatened flora species. The aim of the presentation is to highlight these threatened species, and also to shed light on the importance of these lowland thicket habitats, and in particular the ‘Jachtvlakte’ biodiversity hotspot. Location. Nelson Mandela Bay, Eastern Cape, South Africa Activities. Initially, I briefly introduce the lowland thicket ecosystem types within the NMB, and thereafter present and discuss the threatened species recorded in each ecosystem type. Lastly, I will provide a brief summary of the importance of the Jachtvlakte biodiversity hotspot. Main Conclusions. Lowland thicket types are treasure troves for rare and/ or threatened flora species, with high numbers of endemic and rare species. Close to 50 plant SCC have been recorded within the lowland thicket ecosystems of the NMBM. Management Implications. Lowland thicket ecosystems of Nelson Mandela Bay hold significantly high biodiversity importance and deserve prioritised conservation. Future developments within these habitats should be limited and require carefully considered analysis and assessment. Due to the endemic and threatened nature of some many species, and the ecosystem types present within these lowlands, any planned developments will likely require a biodiversity offset, the caveat being that offset options (in terms of extent) are already limited, and dwindling, and offset may not be an option in the near future.