Reason for the sensitivity status
This species is potentially threatened by illegal succulent collecting. This genus is currently in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade. Other species of this genus are known to be traded. A small population size with potential threat makes this species vulnerable to further population loss. Recruitment and recovery from harvesting may be poor. Releasing data on this species could exacerbate threat and vulnerability.
This species is either similar to another sensitive species or belongs to a group containing sensitive species, and is extremely rare in the wild. The localities of wild populations need to be protected to avoid loss to exploitation, which, due to its rarity, could drive the species to extinction within a very short time.
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 Critically Endangered as it is consists of one subpopulation with few individuals and is potentially threatened by illegal succulent collecting (von Staden, 2016). This genus is currently in demand and of popular interest in international horticultural trade, as indicated by several online marketplace, e-commerce and auction sites. Other species of this genus are known to be traded. This may threaten rare species of this genus with collection and removal from the wild.
von Staden, L. 2016. Pleiospilos simulans (Marloth) N.E.Br. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1.
Population vulnerability
Population is vulnerable: size is <= 2500 mature individuals OR the number of known subpopulations is <= 5 OR range is <= 100km2 OR species at risk of localised extinctions
Justification and references
This taxon was thought to be extinct in the wild but was rediscovered and is known from one subpopulation of less than 50 plants (von Staden, 2016).
von Staden, L. 2016. Pleiospilos simulans (Marloth) N.E.Br. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1.
Targeted demographics
Unknown.
Regeneration potential
This species has a slow population growth rate, or the growth rate varies depending on habitat, and there is a poor chance the wild populations will recover from exploitation OR a collector might feasibly harvest the entire extant population removing the chance of subsequent recruitment.
Justification and references
A small population size with potential threat makes this species vulnerable to further population loss. Recruitment and recovery from harvesting may be poor.
