The City of Cape Town's Unique Biodiversity:

Ref: Article written by Clifford Donse in the Marina da Gama News

South Africa is the third most biodiverse country of the world. Out of 440 vegetation types found in South Africa, 19 occur in the City of Cape Town. Out of the 24 most endangered vegetation types in South Africa, 10 (41%) occur within the boundaries of Cape Town.

There are six vegetation types which are endemic (i.e. they occur nowhere else on earth) are within the boundaries of Cape Town. This means that theses vegetation types can only be conserved within the City's boundaries. Three of these are classified as critically endangered and the other three endangered.

We have already lost 13 plant species forever which used to occur within the City. These are now globally extinct!!!!

There are 319 plant species found within the City that are threatened with extinction. The main causal factor in Cape Town is habitat destruction, followed by alien plant invasion. If these factors aren't prevented, a great number of plant species will become extinct. Climate change is another factor which should be considered for the future.

The biodiversity network is a conservation plan in the Cape Town area, showing what is required to meet national conservation targets. The biodiversity network plans a partnership between the city of Cape Town, CapeNature, SanParks, SANBI and Environmental Affairs.

These plans are what shape the city for  the future. They will protect the most biodiverse areas in the City. It is critical that we protect our natural heritage for the benefit of future generations.