Red List of South African Species

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Vulnerable (VU)
B1ab(i,ii,iii)+2ab(i,ii,iii)

Rationale

The Karoo Winter Katydid is Vulnerable under criteria B1 and B2 because its extent of occurrence and area of occupancy are small (1900 and 24 km2, respectively), it has only been recorded in six known locations, and area and extent of its habitat are estimated to be in decline.  

This species occurs within the Succulent Karoo biome of Northern Cape Province, a biome which is a biodiversity hotspot, naturally geographically restricted and under anthropogenic stress. This habitat type is predominantly utilized for livestock grazing, which causes shifts to the vegetation assemblage and can be detrimental to the species' host plants. This genus experienced an adaptive radiation in the Fynbos and Succulent Karoo biomes of Western and Northern Cape Provinces, South Africa, with at least 9 species known in a relatively small geographic area. The Karoo Winter Katydid occurs within Goegap Nature Reserve.

Distribution

The Karoo Winter Katydid (Brinckiella karooensis) is endemic to the Northern Cape Province, South Africa.

Population trend

Trend

No information on population sizes or trends is available.

Threats

The greatest threat to this species is habitat destruction. Within its distribution range, the largest land use type is intensive livestock grazing.

Uses and trade

This species is not utilized.

Conservation

No specific conservation measures are in place for this species but it is known to occur in at least one protected area, Goegap Nature Reserve. 

Lead agencies, Partners and Funders

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