Red List of South African Species

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Vulnerable (VU)

Rationale

The Yellow-winged Agile Grasshopper (Aneuryphymus montanus) is endemic to the Cape region of South Africa. Its area of occupancy (AOO) is between 100 and 1,000 km² and there is a continuing decline in the quality of habitat, from which a continuing decline in the number of mature individuals is inferred. The number of locations (based upon the threat of invasions of non-native plant species) is between six and ten. Therefore, the species is assessed as Vulnerable.

Distribution

This species is only known from six localities in the Cape region of South Africa. Its estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) is ca 170,000 km², while its area of occupancy (AOO) is probably between 100 and 1,000 km². A record from Maclear (Armstrong and van Hensbergen 1999) is considered here uncertain as it is quite far away from the rest of the range.

Population trend

Trend

Data on population size or trends are not available. According to Brown (1960) it is locally common, but according to Kinvig (2005) it is rare. The species has rarely been collected, even though some intensive research has been carried out in the region recently. A continuing decline in the number of mature individuals is inferred from the ongoing threats.

Threats

The main threats to this species are conversion of its habitat into farmland and invasions of non-native plant species.

Uses and trade

The species is not utilised.

Conservation

No specific conservation action is in place for this species, but it has been recorded from protected areas. Research into its distribution, ecology, threats and population trend is needed. A careful control of invasive plant species is needed to avoid future declines of the species.

Lead agencies, Partners and Funders

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