Euphorbia_tanaensis

<i>Euphorbia tanaensis</i>

Euphorbia tanaensis

Species of flowering plant

Euphorbia tanaensis, commonly known as the Tana River euphorbia, is a critically endangered flowering plant from the family Euphorbiaceae. It is found in one location on the Tana River in Kenya. Initially identified from nine individuals in 1988, a subsequent survey in 2006 revealed that only four individuals remain, with no evidence of natural regeneration. Its habitat is under immediate threat from deforestation.[1]

Quick Facts Euphorbia tanaensis, Conservation status ...

Description

Euphorbia tanaensis is a medium-sized succulent tree that stands up to 30 meters tall, with a single trunk reaching up to approximately 50 cm in diameter. Its flowers are reduced and clustered into flowerheads called Cyanthia.[3]

Distribution and habitat

Euphorbia tanaensis is endemic to Witu, Kenya. The estimated distribution range is limited to 4 km2 (1.5 sq mi) where it grows on the periphery of wet lowland forests, particularly those dominated by Terminalia zambesiaca . This specific ecological niche contributes to the plant's distinct characteristics and vulnerability.[1]

Conservation

Euphorbia tanaensis is listed as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The estimated population in the endemic habitat consists of four mature individuals. There are no known individuals in protected areas or ex situ collections and no evidence of regeneration has been observed within the current population.

However, various community and forestry organization efforts have been made to restore the population. Notably, in 2018 several nursery-raised seedlings were planted in Witu and Kilifi’s Arabuko Sokoke forests.[4]

As of August 2023, Kenya Forestry Research Institute (Kefri) has reportedly undertaken captive cultivation of the plant in an effort to restore its population.

Threats

The primary threats to Euphorbia tanaensis stem from human activities, notably serious logging in its habitat. Evidence of human disturbance such as pole-cutting and the use of pit saws have been found close to its habitat, and it is suspected to be contributing to the declining number of the species.[1]

References

  1. [1]
    Beentje, H.J.; Gereau, R.E.; Hilton-Taylor, C.; Howard, G.; Kindeketa, W.; Luke, W.R.Q.; Maunder, M.; Mwachala, G.; Mwangoka, M.; Ndangalasi, H.; Njau, E.-F.; Schatz, G.E.; Siro Masinde, P.; Wilkins, V.L. (2020). "Euphorbia tanaensis". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2020: e.T30898A2798380. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2020-3.RLTS.T30898A2798380.en. Retrieved 16 November 2021.
  2. [2]
    "Euphorbia tanaensis". Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 22 February 2024.
  3. [3]
    "Euphorbia tanaensis P. R. O. Bally & S. Carter articles - Encyclopedia of Life". eol.org. Retrieved 2023-12-29.
  4. [4]
    Report, Staff (2023-08-23). "The Spectacular Revival of Euphorbia Tanaensis in Witu Forest". The Farmer's Journal Africa. Retrieved 2024-04-12.
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