The ecology, distribution, and anthropogenic threats of multipurpose hemi-parasitic plant Osyris lanceolata
Publication Type
Journal Article
Publication Date (Issue Year)
2023
Journal Name
Journal for Nature Conservation
Abstract
Osyris lanceolata Hochst. & Steud. ex A. DC. is a multipurpose plant with high socioeconomic and cultural values. It is endangered in the biogeographical region of eastern Africa, but of less concern in other regions where it occurs. The few natural populations remaining in the endangered sites continue to encounter many threats, and this has raised concerns about its long-term sustainability. Yet, existing knowledge about the ecology and distribution of the plant is scarce to inform strategies for the conservation and sustainable management of the species. In this study, we conducted a scoping review of the available literature on current knowledge about the plant. We recapitulated existing knowledge about the abiotic and biotic factors influencing the contemporary distribution of the plant, the anthropogenic threats, and existing conservation efforts. Based on the limited studies we reviewed, we identified that the plant prefers specific habitats (hilly areas and rocky outcrops), frequently parasitizes Fabaceae but can parasitize plants from a wide range of countries, have inadequate ex-situ propagation protocols which present issues for the survival of the species. Overharvesting from the wild driven by demand from regional and global markets poses further threats to the existing natural populations, especially in eastern Africa. A combination of ecological, social, and trade-related conservation measures can be envisioned to help improve the plant’s persistence. These include, but are not limited to, a better understanding of the species ecology to inform conservation planning, monitoring of trade flow and improve transnatio
Keywords
Conservation, Distribution, Abiotic factors, Biotic factors, Osyris lanceolata Hochst. & Steud. ex A. DC., Endangered
Rsif Scholar Name
Jane Gachambi Mwangi
Thematic Area
Climate Change
Africa Host University (AHU)
Bayero University Kano (BUK), Nigeria
Recommended Citation
Mwangi, J. G., Haggar, J. P., Mohammed, S., Santika, T., & Umar, K. M. (2023). The ecology, distribution, and anthropogenic threats of multipurpose hemi-parasitic plant Osyris lanceolata. Journal for Nature Conservation, 76, 126478. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2023.126478