Rationale

The Golden Gate Grass False Shieldback is Vulnerable under criterion D2 because it has a very small and restricted population. It occurs only within Golden Gate Highlands National Park, has been found only at 3 localities, and has an estimated AOO of 8 km². Although the species occurs within a protected area, its highly restricted distribution means that even a small disturbance can have a detrimental effect on the survival of the species as a whole. The most likely threats to the species are change in climate or distribution of the species' food plants as a result of climate change, or increased grazing by wildlife or livestock. Due to its small body size and low motility, this species cannot be expected to shift its range in response to changes in its habitat. Furthermore, it is already distributed at high elevations, so will not be able to shift higher in response to climate change.

Distribution

Habitat View more ecological information

Population trend

Trend

Threats

The greatest threat to this species is habitat destruction caused by touristic development. Although this species occurs only within Golden Gate Highlands National Park whose habitat is considered to be quite stable, the severely restricted distribution of the species means that even small disturbances may threaten the survival of this species.

Uses and trade

Conservation

No specific conservation measures are in place for this species but it is known to occur only within a protected area, Golden Gate Highlands National Park.