Rationale
The threat status of the Drakensberg Grass False Shieldback (Paracilacris lateralis) is Vulnerable under criterion B1. Its extent of occurrence is relatively small (~12,000 km2), it has only been recorded in four locations, and the quality of its habitat is expected to be in decline due to grazing pressure, cultivation, invasive alien plants and climate change. A large proportion of this species' distribution occurs in Golden Gate and Royal Natal National Parks and in Giant's Castle Game Reserve, providing the species with some protection. The entire geographic range of this species falls within sensitive mid to high altitude grasslands of the Drakensberg Mountains. While much of this habitat type is protected, a few extreme and unforeseen events may prove detrimental to the survival of the species. Furthermore, the exclusive presence of this species within protected areas indicates that the species may only be able to survive within pristine habitats.