Exploitation of Encephalartos transvenosus outside and inside Mphaphuli Cycads Nature Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa |
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Authors: | A M Ravele R A Makhado |
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Institution: | Local Government: Planning &Coordination, DEAT, P/Bag X447, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa;and Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, P/Bag ×313, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa |
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Abstract: | This study has investigated the use and threats of Encephalartos transvenosus outside and inside Mphaphuli Cycads Nature Reserve, Limpopo Province, South Africa. Data were collected from 2005 to 2006 through social and ecological surveys. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a total of 40 people per household, sampled from four selected villages around the reserve. E. transvenosus is used for medicinal purposes, decorations, cultural activities and as food. Youth and adult persons harvest E. transvenosus for income generation, while children and aged people mainly use it for subsistence purposes. The survival of E. transvenosus in the wild is uncertain due to various threats, such as illegal collection, habitat destruction, fire and grazing. Some conservation measures are also discussed. |
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Keywords: | cycads Encephalartos transvenosus habitat destruction illegal collection medicinal use |
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