Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the South African National Biodiversity Institute’s (SANBI) Custodians for Rare and Endangered Wildlife (CREW) Programme’s team and volunteers remain committed to continuing the vital role of monitoring threatened plant species and conducting fieldwork.
The great rediscovery of the “extinct” Aspalathus complicata (common names: Versveld Pass Cape gorse/Versveldpas-steekertjie) was made on October 24 by CREW volunteer and PhD botany candidate Brian du Preez while travelling to Piketberg to do fieldwork.
On inspection of the plant, and subsequent investigation at home, it was determined that this was indeed the Aspalathus complicata.
Aspalathus complicata is one of over 300 species belonging to the same genus of plants as South Africa’s world renowned and popular rooibos tea.
This species was first collected in 1934 at the base of Versveld Pass, just outside of the town Piketberg.
The species has subsequently not been located since the initial collection, despite numerous searches of it in the surrounding area.
The species is likely still endangered due to its supposedly small distribution range, including being a habitat specialist within this small area.
Although only two plants were spotted by du Preez, the plants are likely to be more prevalent after a much-needed ecological burn of the slopes on Piketberg Pass.
The true extent of the Aspalathus complicata population will only be determined about three years post-fire when they would have regenerated and started flowering.
(Information: SANBI).
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