Babiana virginea | SANBI Sensitive Species

Assessor: Juan Swanepoel

Sensitive in 2010

Family

Iridaceae

Reason for the sensitivity status

There have been recorded confiscations of species of the Babiana genus from illegal collection. This genus is in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade. As this taxon does not have a vulnerable population size and it is not thought to be threatened, were exploitation to occur, recruitment and recovery may be possible.

Exploitation extent

Uncertain - No data exists yet showing that this species is exploited in the wild, however it has one or more relatives or look-alike species (found in South Africa or globally) that are known to be utilised. This species has a similar life form or other relevant traits to its exploited relative(s), making it highly likely that it would be exploited for the same purposes.

Justification and references

According to the SANBI Red List Assessment this species is Rare (Victor and Raimondo, 2016). This genus is increasing in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade as indicated by several online marketplace, e-commerce and auction sites. There have been recorded confiscations of Babiana spp. from illegal collections (2021, confiscation data provided by Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden). This suggests that this genus is being targeted and that this species may be at risk from the wild.

Victor, J.E. and Raimondo, D. 2016. Babiana virginea Goldblatt. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. Accessed on 2021/12/28

Population vulnerability

Population is not vulnerable: size is > 2500 mature individuals, AND the number of known subpopulations is > 5 AND range > 100km²

Justification and references

A range-restricted Roggeveld endemic (extent of occurrence 539 km²). It is not threatened and is considered to have a stable population (Victor and Raimondo, 2016).

Victor, J.E. and Raimondo, D. 2016. Babiana virginea Goldblatt. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. Accessed on 2021/12/28

Targeted demographics

Unknown.

Regeneration potential

This species has a fast population growth rate, and there is a good chance the wild populations will recover from exploitation.

Justification and references

The population growth rate is unknown. Population size is likely to be limited by suitable habitat. As this taxon does not have a vulnerable population size and it is not thought to be threatened, were exploitation to occur, recruitment and recovery may be possible.