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BOTHALIA – African Biodiversity & Conservation ISSN: (Online) 2311-9284, (Print) 0006-8241

A rapid biodiversity assessment of Lesotho’s first proposed Biosphere Reserve: a case study of Bokong Nature Reserve and Tšehlanyane National Park

Authors 1,2Lerato Seleteng-Kose Background: Two of Lesotho’s protected areas, namely Bokong Nature Reserve 3Khotso Kobisi and Tšehlanyane National Park, form the core area of the country’s first proposed 4 Ruida Pool-Stanvliet Biosphere Reserve. Biodiversity is a key aspect needed to justify nomination of a 5Khotso Mohapi Biosphere Reserve under UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme. Previ- Affiliations ously documented biodiversity of the two protected areas is limited in terms of coverage and scope as well as being outdated. The aim of the current study was 1Department of Biology, National University of Lesotho, Roma 180, to conduct a rapid assessment of the biodiversity, including endemism, of the Lesotho. proposed Biosphere Reserve to inform the formal nomination process. 2Department of Botany and Plant Biotechnology, University Methods: A field survey was undertaken over 112 033 ha in the core, buffer of Johannesburg, P.O. Box and transition zones of the proposed Biosphere Reserve during which species of 524, Auckland Park 2006, both flora and fauna were documented. Purposeful recordings were made during Johannesburg, South Africa. 3Independent Researcher and different seasons to incorporate various flowering seasons of the plants, as well as Plant Collector, P.O. Box 148, faunal species that may hibernate or migrate seasonally. Machache 130, Lesotho. 4P.O. Box 6147, Uniedal, 7612, South Results: A total of 380 plant species was recorded, 30 of which are legally pro- Africa. tected in the country, 60 endemic to the Drakensberg Mountain Centre, and two 5 Department of Environment, species (Aloe polyphylla and Glumicalyx lesuticus) are endemic to Lesotho. The Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Culture, P. O. former is the national flower of Lesotho and is under threat due to illegal trade. Box 10993, Maseru, Lesotho Sixteen mammal species were recorded, seven of which are legally protected in the country, as well as 53 bird species (including the IUCN Red Listed vulture Corresponding Author species, Gyps coprotheres and Gypaetus barbatus). Two fish species were also Lerato Seleteng-Kose; recorded including Pseudobarbus quathlambae, which is Lesotho’s only known e-mail: endemic vertebrate species, as well as seven reptile and three amphibian species [email protected] (two of which are near endemic namely Amietia delalandii and A. vertebralis).

Dates Conclusion: This survey has provided valuable baseline information on the bio- Submitted: 27 March 2020 diversity (particularly regarding the flora and avifauna) of the proposed Biosphere Accepted: 13 May 2021 Published: 23 August 2021 Reserve, which includes two protected areas namely Bokong Nature Reserve and Tšehlanyane National Park. The findings reflect the biodiversity value of the area How to cite this article: and will contribute towards its nomination as Lesotho’s first Biosphere Reserve. Seleteng-Kose, L., Kobisi, K., Pool- Stanvliet, R. & Mohapi, K., 2021, Keywords: Drakensberg Mountain Centre, MAB Programme, endemics, Red ‘A rapid biodiversity assessment Listed species, UNESCO of Lesotho’s first proposed Biosphere Reserve: a case study of Bokong Nature Reserve and Tšehlanyane National Park’, Bothalia 51(2), a6. http://dx.doi. org/10.38201/btha.abc.v51.i2.6 Introduction

Copyright: © 2021. The Authors The Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme, of the United Nations Educa- Licensee: SANBI. This work is licensed under the Creative tional, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), is an intergovernmental Commons Attribution 4.0 scientific programme that seeks to establish a scientific basis for the improve- International License. ment of relationships between people and their environments. The Programme is implemented through establishment of Biosphere Reserves (BRs), which are

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 2 of 34 | Original research aimed at balancing human’s dependence on biological from mountain summits of South Africa (Eastern Cape, resources with the ecological integrity of the natural re- KwaZulu-Natal) and Lesotho (Soderstrom & Ellis 1982). source base. The MAB Programme contributes to im- plementing elements of the Convention on Biological Bokong Nature Reserve and TNP fall within the high Diversity (CBD) through i) conservation of genetic re- elevation catchments of Lesotho (Lahmeyer Macdon- sources, species and ecosystems; ii) scientific research ald Consortium & Oliver Shand Consortium 1986). Be- and monitoring; and iii) promoting sustainable develop- ing situated at a high elevation, up to 3 152 masl, the ment in communities (UNESCO 1996). The guidelines proposed BR experiences occasional snow, particularly indicate that each BR should contain three elements, during winter months (May to July). This has resulted in namely: a core area/s, which is/are securely protected the area developing unique subalpine vegetation typ- for conserving biological diversity as well as undertak- ical of the Maloti–Drakensberg (Mucina & Rutherford ing non-destructive research and other low-impact 2006). It is estimated that 30% of the plant species oc- uses; a buffer zone, which usually surrounds or adjoins curring in the area are endemic (NES 2000). However, the core area/s, and is used for co-operative activities Carbutt and Edwards (2001) considered this to be an compatible with sound ecological practices; a flexible over-estimate since the flora of the Lesotho Highlands transition area, which incorporates a variety of activi- and Eastern Cape Drakensberg was poorly explored at ties including agriculture and human settlements where the time, and thus was not incorporated into the calcu- various stakeholders work together to manage and sus- lation of the area’s endemism. Nevertheless, the area is tainably develop the area’s resources (UNESCO 1996). recognised as one of southern Africa’s eight hot-spots of botanical diversity as indexed by its species rich- In Lesotho, two protected areas (PAs) namely Bokong ness and endemism (Cowling & Hilton-Taylor 1994). Nature Reserve (BNR) and Tšehlanyane National Park Van Wyk and Smith (2001) rank the area as having the (TNP) form the core areas of a proposed BR (Figure 1). fourth richest regional flora in southern Africa. The area occurs within the Grassland Biome of south- ern Africa, which is the second largest biome after A number of studies have discussed the biodiversity of the Savanna Biome (Mucina & Rutherford 2006). The the proposed BR, however, they were based largely on PAs have been established under the auspices of the outdated literature. In addition, most of these studies Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA). were limited either in terms of scope, documenting The BNR covers an area of about 1 970 ha, and is en- mainly dominant and economically important species, dowed with wetlands that provide water to the Katse or extent, covering only parts of the proposed BR. For Dam, which in turn supplies water to Gauteng Prov- example, the Conservation Development and Manage- ince in South Africa (LHDA 1998a). The wetlands also ment Plan of BNR (LHDA 1998a) estimated floral spe- provide a habitat to the rare Sloggett’s ice rat (Otomys cies richness of the area at 180 flowering plants, based sloggetti Thomas, 1902), which is endemic to south- mainly on literature. Similarly, the Management and ern Africa, being confined to South Africa and Lesotho Development Plan for TNP (LHDA 1998b) estimated (Maloti–Drakensberg). the floristic composition of the park at 220 flowering species, which is representative of the western Maloti Interestingly, BNR is the highest elevation PA in Leso- (i.e. from Sentinel Peak to Mohale’s Hoek) of the great- tho, lying between 2 600 and 3 152 m above sea level er Drakensberg region, and documented 24 mammali- (m.a.s.l). Tšehlanyane National Park covers an area of an species, even though no field assessment had been 5 600 ha, and serves as a conservation area for mature made. Leucosidea sericea Eckl. & Zeyh. riparian woodland, which forms the largest woodland cover of all areas in Insights into the biodiversity of the proposed BR were Lesotho. Woodland vegetation covers only about 1% of provided by Carbutt and Edwards (2004) who docu- the whole country (May 2000). The most conspicuous mented the native flora of the Drakensberg Alpine Cen- plants in TNP is the oldwood (Leucosidea sericea), quilt- tre (DAC), currently known as Drakensberg Mountain ed sagewood (Buddleja salviifolia (L.) Lam. and Drakens- Centre (DMC), as comprising 2 818 taxa in 205 families berg bamboo (Thamnocalamus tessellatus (Nees)) (Sod- and 781 genera. Of the 2 818 taxa, 89% were angio- erstrom & R.P.Ellis 1982). The latter is the only endemic sperms, 7% bryophytes, 3% pteridophytes and 0.2% southern African bamboo, and occurs from the Western gymnosperms. In addition, they recorded 166 exotic Cape province of South Africa, through Lesotho and angiosperm species. However, the work of Carbutt and KwaZulu-Natal to the Free State, at elevations of about Edwards (2004) is outdated and relied on literature, 1 500–2 500 masl (Soderstrom & Ellis 1982). Indeed, the using regional floras such as Jacot Guillarmod (1971) name of the park originates from the colour of the Drak- and Kobisi and Kose (2003) for the Flora of Lesotho, ensberg bamboo, which is yellowish (translating into Hilliard and Burtt (1987) and Meter et al. (2002) for Tšehlanyane in Sesotho – the local language). The plant the southern KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg; and Porter is globally rare and provides a habitat for the Red List- et al. (1999) for the uKhahlamba–Drakensberg Park; ed, Endangered butterfly known as the Bamboo Sylph as well as regional field guides for the trees (Pool- (Metisella syrinx (Trimen, 1868)), which is known only ey 1993) and mountain flowers (Pooley 2003) in the

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A B

Figure 1. A & B, Lesotho’s first proposed Biosphere Reserve, showing the core (Tšehlanyane National Park and Bokong Nature Reserve), buffer and transition zones (Source: T. Leballo).

Maloti–Drakensberg. As they were using regional ref- who presented findings from a survey aimed at inven- erences, Carbutt and Edwards (2004) were not able to torying resources on which people rely, and that were specify which of the recorded species occur in the PAs likely to be affected by the establishment of a BR that of the proposed BR. encompases both TNP and BNR. This publication is now also outdated and was confined to the proposed A publication by Carbutt and Edwards (2006) focused core area, as well as to specific taxa with socio-eco- on the endemic and near-endemic angiosperms of the nomic benefit. It was therefore evident that no compre- DAC, recording 334 and 595 species respectively, also hensive documentation of the biodiversity of the pro- based on existing literature. The study emphasised that posed BR had been undertaken. As a result, a detailed the flora of the area must continue to receive conser- biodiversity survey covering the core area (BNR and vation attention because many of its taxa are rare and TNP) as well as buffer and transition zones, was neces- highly restricted in distribution, and more than half sary to appraise the value of the area, hence supporting of its endemics are regarded as either Red or Orange its nomination as a BR. Data species. Carbutt (2019) revised the profile of an- giosperm endemics provided by Carbutt and Edwards (2006), as well as the boundary of the former DAC. The study recorded 227 angiosperm species, representing Methodology 90 genera, as endemic to the DMC, based on previous literature, as well as using Google Earth Pro to delineate Study area new boundaries of the DMC. The revision resulted in removal of about 32% of the species, which were previ- The proposed BR covers a total area of about ously regarded as endemic from the account of Carbutt 112 033 ha, encompassing the core (BNR and TNP, and Edwards (2006), and added two more recently de- 7 570 ha), buffer (31 050 ha) and transition zones scribed species to the list. (66 577 ha) (Figure 1), with an elevation ranging be- tween 1 636 and 3 152 masl The area falls within the The most focused work on the biodiversity within the temperate grassland of southern Africa. It is located proposed BR was conducted by Letšela et al. (2003), in the Leribe District in the northern part of Lesotho

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(Figure 1A,B). The proposed BR forms part of the larger maximise opportunities to observe faunal species that area covered by the Maloti–Drakensberg Transfrontier may hibernate or migrate seasonally. Each of the four Conservation and Development Programme (MDTC- surveys lasted for a period of two weeks. Research and DP), which spans the border between Lesotho and collecting permits were provided by the Department of South Africa, covering certain parts of the two countries Environment (under the Ministry of Tourism, Environ- (northeastern, eastern and southeastern parts of Leso- ment and Culture in Lesotho), which is also the custodi- tho, as well as the adjacent parts of South Africa). an of the core area that forms part of the proposed BR.

The approach used for data collection was a purposeful Data collection field survey undertaken by travelling throughout the core, buffer and transition zones of the proposed BR on foot The survey stems from the need to profile the biodi- and on horseback, targeting accessible areas of the pro- versity of the proposed BR, which is needed for sup- posed BR. Data were collected by identifying and doc- porting nomination of the area to UNESCO. Therefore umenting species of both flora and fauna encountered a rapid survey was undertaken, targeted at both flora in the area. Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates and fauna occurring within the proposed BR (core, buf- were recorded (using Garmin Etrex 10) to map the area fer and transition zones). Four purposeful surveys were covered during the survey (Figure 2). Plants that could conducted by the second and fourth authors, spanning not be identified on site were collected and later iden- different seasons between August 2018 and May 2019. tified using the literature or herbarium collections at the This was done to target flowering seasons of different National University of Lesotho (NUL) herbarium (ROML), plant species to enable their identification, as well as to where the collected specimens were also deposited.

Figure 2. Transect walks covered during the different phases of the biodiversi- ty survey (data collection) in the pro- posed Biosphere Reserve (Source: T. Leballo).

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Fish and aquatic amphibian species were surveyed with transition zones), covering both flora and fauna (mam- the aid of an electro-shocker (powered by a generator) mals, birds, reptiles, fish and amphibians). Species lists which forced organisms to float on the water surface, are provided in Tables 1–6, where scientific, English where they were identified. The shocking effect was (common) and vernacular (Sesotho) names have been temporary to avoid causing harm. The assessment was provided, where available. The Plantzafrica­ website conducted in both the Bokong and Tšehlanyane rivers. (pza.sanbi.org), as well as Pooley (1998, 2003) were used as the basis for the plant names for taxa recorded Reptiles were surveyed by turning over stones and in the current study. In the case of fauna, Sinclair et searching in the thicket. Birds were photographed using al. (2002) was used for birds; Stuart and Stuart (2007, a Canon EOS 1100D camera (with a telephoto lens of 2015) for mammals; Alexander and Marais (2008) for 300 mm), and identified at a later stage, whereas mam- reptiles; NES (2000) for fish; and Du Preez and Car- mals were recorded through observation. The majority ruthers (2009) for amphibians. The IUCN Red List of the species were photographed to allow confirma- status of the different species is also provided, where tion of their identification. available. Lesotho conducted the last flora Red List assessment in 2002, focusing on a limited number Data collection and identification of species was con- of species, and based on literature (Talukdar, 2002). ducted on-site by the second author, a renowned bio- Therefore in most cases the Red List of South African diversity specialist who has contributed to various litera- plants has been used in the current study (http://redlist. ture resources on Lesotho’s flora, such as the Preliminary sanbi.org). Similarly, in the case of fauna, Red Listing Checklist of the Plants of Lesotho (Kobisi 2005), a Check- for Lesotho was last undertaken in 2000, also based on list of Grasses of Lesotho (Kobisi & Kose 2003), as well as literature. Therefore the IUCN Red List of Threatened the Grassland Biome chapter in the Vegetation of South Species website (https://www.iucnredlist.org) has been Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland (Mucina et al. 2006). Spe- used to provide the conservation status of the fauna cies identification was also confirmed by the first author species listed in Tables 2–6. who is a botanist and a Senior Lecturer at the National University of Lesotho. The fourth author also formed part of the expedition team, being the Conservation Officer in Flora the Lesotho’s Northern Parks (under which BNR and TNP fall), who has also been involved in several biodiversity A total of 380 plant species were recorded in the pro- expeditions in the country. Various literature resources posed BR during the four biodiversity surveys undertak- were used for identification including: Moffett (1997, en (Table 1). However, six species were only identified 2010), Van Wyk and Van Wyk (1997), Pooley (1998, to genus level due to absence of flowers at the time of 2003), Van Oudtshoorn (1999), May (2000), Van Wyk undertaking the survey. These include Cyrtanthus sp. and Gericke (2000), Talukdar (2002), Coopero-Driver et Aiton, Delosperma sp. N.E.Br and Eulophia sp. R.Br. ex al. (2008), Van Wyk et al. (2009), Bromilow (2010), Van Lindl. Thirty of the 380 recorded species are declared Wyk and Smith (2014) for plants; Stuart and Stuart (2015) protected by law in the country (Legal Notice No. 36 for mammals; Sinclair et al. (2002) for birds; Alexander of 1969, as amended by Legal Notice No. 93 of 2004 and Marais (2008) for reptiles; Du Preez and Carruthers and No. 38 of 2006), and these include Drakensberg (2009) for amphibians; and NES (2000) for fish. bamboo, giant alepidea (Alepidea amatymbica Eckl & Zeyh.), Lesotho carnation (Dianthus basuticus Burtt Davy), quilted sagewood (Buddleja salviifolia (L.) Lam.) Limitations of the study and Aloe L. spp. (Table 1). The most represented genera include Helichrysum Mill. consisting of 25 species, fol- The surveys were undertaken when Lesotho was expe- lowed by Senecio L. with eight species and Aloe with six riencing dry conditions due to delayed rains in 2018 to species. The findings of the current study are in agree- 2019. As a result, this delayed the flowering season of ment with those of Cowling and Hilton-Taylor (1994), the majority of the plants and some specimens could who ranked Helichrysum and Senecio as the top two only be identified to genus level. The area is not easily genera with the largest number of species in the area. accessible and surveys required long, arduous walks, Similarly, Carbutt and Edwards (2006) indicated that lasting from sunrise to sunset and are situated in areas these two genera contribute the most to the endem- with mountainous topography (Figure 3A, B). ic and near-endemic species of the area. In addition, LHDA (1998b) also reported extensive Drakensberg bamboo communities in the area. Results and discussions Of the 380 recorded plant species, 41 are exotic Species lists (marked with an asterisk in Table 1), these include black poplar (Populus nigra L.), four o’clock (Mirabilis jalapa The current study provides a detailed compilation of L.), khakiweed (Tagetes minuta L.), inkberry (Phytolacca species recorded in the proposed BR (core, buffer and octandra L.), peach tree (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) and

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A B

C D E

F G

H I

J K

Figure 3. A & B, the spectacular scenery of mountaineous landscapes forming part of the proposed BR; C, the endemic spiral aloe; D, the near-endemic Lesotho lily; E, the Lesotho red-hot poker; F, locally uncommon fern – bracken; G, endemic Maloti minnow; H, common eland; and I, its presence on rock paintings; J, some of the wetlands in the BNR; K, some of them damaged by diggings of Sloggett’s ice rat (Source: K. Kobisi).

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 7 of 34 | Original research Abundance common Very Not common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Not common Not common Not common Not common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Endangered Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Uses Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Ropes Lawns, golf course fairways Grazing Medicinal Parasitic Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Grazed Ornamental Growth Form Tree Herb Forb Herb Tree Grass Grass Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Succulent Succulent Succulent Succulent Shrub Grass Herb Forb Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial mohloa-oa-mafika Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names tjobasele phoa leta-la-phofu lesoko lesokoana moroba-lihale lekhala-la-bafu mohalakane letjeane-la-noka mohontsoane-oa-loti lekhala-le-leputsoa joang-ba-phororo senyarela mokhele, sono lesokoana lekhala-kharetsa mohlala lower

Common names Blue wattle Hoary ragwort Bell agapanthus Blue agave Astoria bent, black couch, brown bentgrass Bent grass, south african bent grass Bugle plant witchweed Yellow Giant alepidea Natal star f Broad-leaved grass aloe aloe Ecklon’s Common soap aloe Spiral aloe Hardy aloe Snowflake grass African mallow Dogfennel declared legally protected in the country 3 .

Lesotho endemic; 2 F.M.Leight. F.M.Leight. Benth.

Nees Eckl & Zeyh. (Haw.) Klopper & (Haw.)

(Thell.) J.C.Manning & (Thell.) J.C.Manning Nees J.M.Wood & M.S.Evans J.M.Wood L. Schönland ex Pillans L. Link (Vahl) Kuntze (Vahl) (Thunb.) J.C.Manning & (Thunb.) J.C.Manning (Burch.ex DC.) Bates subsp Bates DC.) (Burch.ex L. Dummer All. Burch. ex Salm-Dyck (F.M.Leight.) F.M.Leight. (F.M.Leight.) Baker (Bolus) Bates DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho patens 1 Aloe polyphylla Acacia dealbata Agave americana Agapanthus campanulatus Alepidea amatymbica Alepidea thodei Aloe boylei Aloe ecklonis Aloe maculata Aloiampelos striatula Taxon * Afroaster erucifolius Goldblatt Afroaster hispida Goldblatt 1 subsp. * Agrostis capillaris Agrostis lachnantha Ajuga ophrydis Alectra sessiliflora 3 Alepidea natalensis 1 3 3 3 2,3 3 Gideon F.Sm. Andropogon eucomus Anisodontea julii pannosa Anthemis cotula exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 8 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Not common Not common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Rare Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Grazed Eaten Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Grazing Grazing Medicinal Eaten Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Growth Form Forb Herb Herb Herb Succulent Herb Herb Grass Grass Grass Shrub Herb Herb Herb Shrub Shrub Herb Herb Herb Herb Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic sereleli, lekhalana Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names lethepu-le-lenyenyane sepinare phakisane lebesa mohlolohali bohlanya-ba-lipere lengana moholantja sethota-sa-mathuoela, khopa lehonyeli lerara-tau lehorometso lehorometso Phefshoana-e-nyenyane Common names Little russet pea aloe Torch Blue-eyed grass aristea Wood’s Annual three-awn Iron grass Wormwood Drakensberg meadow- star Common meadow-star Broad-leaved asparagus Shatavari Black spleenwort Resurrection fern Single-sori fern declared legally protected in the country 3 (Stapf) . afra Lesotho endemic; 2 L. var. L. var. burkei Bolus Eckl. & Zeyh. (L.) Druce (Kunth)Baker L. Puff Willd. (Thunb.) Sw. (Thunb.) Sw. DC. L. Eckl.&Zeyh. Trin. & Rupr. Trin. Schltr. (Haw.) Boatwr. & Boatwr. (Haw.) Pax (E.Mey.) Schltr. (E.Mey.) MacOwan Trin. subsp. Trin. N.E.Br. Jacq.ex Willd. var Jacq.ex Willd. DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Aristaloe aristata Taxon Anthospermum streyi Argyrolobium marginatum Argyrolobium molle Argyrolobium tuberosum 1 J.C.Manning Aristea abysinnica Aristea woodii Aristida adscensionis Aristida diffusa Melderis Aristida junciformis Artemisia afra Asclepias humilis Asclepias stellifera Asparagus asparagoides Asparagus microraphis Asparagus racemosus Asplenium adiantum-nigrum adiantum-nigrum Asplenium cordatum Asplenium monanthes Athrixia angustissima Athrixia fontana exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 9 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Common common Very common Very Common Not common Common Not common Not common common Very common Very Common Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Endangered Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Uses Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Ornamental Medicinal Medicinal Eaten Grazing Firewood Firewood Medicinal Grazing Grazing Medicinal Medicinal Firewood Growth Form Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Forb Forb Herb Herb Grass Orchid Orchid Tree Tree Herb Sedge Grass Herb Forb Fern Fern Shrub Shrublet Forb Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Lehorometso Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names mohato-o-mosoeu mohatollo ntsoantsoane leleme-la-khomo leshoma mukuru-oa-thaba lesuoane joang-ba-matlapa karana mametsana lefokotsane lelora lelothoane pekane qoqobala-ea-loti mamarakoaneng lehorometso sehalahala tlali-tlali, khotolia Common names Grassland lady-fern Doringrige bergdissel (Afrikaans) Rosette thistle Buffalo-tongue Cosmos Common black-jack bulb Poison Bird-cage brachystelma Strong brome Mountain sagewood Quilted sagewood Spreading bulbine Nodding sedge Gause grass Snow flower Resurrection fern lip fern Four-pinnate Bitter bush declared legally protected in the country 3

Lindl.

Lesotho endemic; 2

(Forssk.) Kuhn (Forssk.)

E.Mey. (Kunze) Mett. (Kunze) Sond. (L.) Spreng. Harv. Ex Harv. (L.) Lam. Cron (DC.) Roessler Moug. Ex Fée (L.f.) Herb. (L.f.) L. (DC.) Roessler E.Mey.ex.Fenzl. Roessler Leeuwenberg DC. (Savi) Ten. Cav. Sw. Stapf & Stent (Nees) Stapf L. Kunth DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Buddleja loricata Buddleja salviifolia Bidens formosa Bidens pilosa Cirsium vulgare Berkheya cirsiifolia Berkheya multijuga Berkheya rosulata Boophane disticha Taxon Athyrium schimperi 1 1 1 Berkheya setifera * * 3 Brachystelma circinatum Bromus firmior Brownleea parviflora Brownleea macroceras 1,3 1,3 Bulbine asphodeloides Carex cognata Catalepis gracilis Cerastium arabidis Cheilanthes eckloniana Cheilanthes hirta Cheilanthes quadripinnata Chrysocoma ciliata Cineraria lyratiformis * exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 10 of 11 | Original research Abundance Common Common common Very common Very Common Not common Not common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Not common Not common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Firewood Wood, Fuel Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Grazing Firewood Parasitic Medicinal Medicinal Thatching Medicinal Grazing Growth Form Herb Shrub Shrub Herb Herb Succulent Succulent Succulent Succulent Succulent Succulent Herb Grass Tree Forb Tree Herb Grass Grass Grass Sedge Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names lenyofane mosali-mofubelu serelilenyana motšetše morarana-oa-mafehlo serelile feko bohobe-ba-setsomi serelilenyana serelilenyana bohome-ba-lipoli lebate moshanyana-maralleng mohloa qoqothoane Common names joy Traveller’s Starry rice-bush ears Pig’s Sickle grass Blue Arizona cypress Mountain cabbage grass Turpentine Narrow-leaved turpentine grass Couch grass, quick grass declared legally protected in the country 3

(Haw.) (Haw.) . glabra Lesotho endemic; 2 oblonga .

(Steud.)Stapf ex (Steud.)Stapf ex L. var. Greene var Eckl. & Zeyh. var. Yunck Nees Bolus

Eckl. & Zeyh. (L.) Pers Schönl. Moq. Harv Vahl Hilliard & Burtt Thunb. (Engl.) Harv. Bernh. (DC.) Harv. Forssk. (Reyneke & Kok) DeWinter (Reyneke & Kok) DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Cupressus arizonica Cuscuta campestris Cyathula capitata Cynodon dactylon Cussonia paniculata Taxon Clematis brachiata Cliffortia nitidula Clutia natalensis Conium fontanum Cotula hispida Cotyledon orbiculata DC. Crassula alba Crassula dependens Crassula natalensis Crassula peploides Crassula sarcocaulis Crassula setulosa Ctenium concinnum * Little. (Sudw.) * 3 sinuata * Cymbopogon marginatus Burtt Davy Cymbopogon plurinodis Burtt Davy * Cyperus congestus exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 11 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Not common Common Common Not common Common Common Common Common Not common Common Not common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Rare Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Handicrafts Medicinal Wood Fuel Handicrafts Grazed Grazed Growth Form Herb Herb Succulent Herb Herb Herb Herb Succulent Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Orchid Herb Orchid Orchid Sedge Forb Grass Grass Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names yellow dobo lily hlokoana-la-tsela lethepu senokonoko musa-pelo-oa-noka letjoi leanya-poli sechaba, leloli joang-ba-mafika tsaane Common names cyrtanthus Flanagan’s fumaria Wild Jimsonweed mountain Table Lesotho carnation Drakensberg hairbell pink daisy Trailing Star-apple Firesticks Golden orchid disa Fragrant Golden star Curly leaf declared legally protected in the country 3 frigida Lesotho endemic; 2 (Kunth) Muasya (Kunth) (Nel) B.L.Burtt DeWinter var. var. DeWinter E.Phillips R.A.Dyer Steud. Baker (Bernh.) Lidén

L. (Hook.f.) L.Bolus (Hook.f.) N.E.Br. Burtt Davy L.Bolus L.Bolus (Hiern) Hilliard & Burtt Hook. f. Harv. Reichb.f. subsp. Reichb.f. Stapf Schltr. (L.) Swartz sp. N.E.Br sp.Aiton (DeWinter) DeWinter DeWinter (DeWinter) H.P.Linder DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Datura stramonium Cyrtanthus attenuatus Cyrtanthus flanaganii Dianthus basuticus Dierama robustum Diospyros austro-africana Taxon 1 1 Cyrtanthus Cysticapnos pruinosa * Delosperma cooperi Delosperma lineare Delosperma 3 Diascia barberae Diclis rotundifolia Dierama argyreum 1 Dimorphotheca jucunda 1 rubriflora Disa cephalotes (Schltr.) Disa cornuta Disa fragrans Disperis cooperi Dracoscirpoides ficinioides Empodium monophyllum Eragrostis caesia Eragrostis chloromelas exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 12 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Common Common common Very Common Not common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Grazing Grazing Fuel Firewood Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Fuel Medicinal Medicinal Ornamental Firewood Growth Form Grass Grass Shrublet Dwarf shrub Shrub Shrublet Herb Tree Tree Herb Herb Herb Shrub Dwarf shrub Succulent Shrublet Shrublet Tree Herb Shrub Shrub Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial khoarai Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names molula lekhapu-le-lenyenyane molomo-oa- Lekolikotoana lekhapu ralikokotoana khapumpu makholela lirulello sehloko sehlakoana sehlakoana-se- senyenyane sehalahala joang-ba-tsaane molelengoane nyokoana-ea-likhoho khapumpu Common names love grass, tough Fan grass Broom love grass erica Foxtail pom-pom Water Gum tree Common pineapple lily Miniature eucomis spoor Lion’s Felicia Fine-leaved declared legally protected in the country 3 .

Lesotho endemic; 2

Boiss.

Nees B.Nord. Bolus (Mill.) Chitt. subsp Lam. Wood & Evans Wood Reyneke Hochst. Harv. Killick E.Phillips A.DC. Nees Schltr. Schltr. (Harv.) Burtt Davy (Harv.) (Vent.) Burtt Davy (Vent.) H.Bolus H.Bolus sp. L’Hér sp. R.Br. ex Lindl. sp. R.Br. (Baker) Reyneke DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Eucomis schijffii Eucalyptus Erica algida Erica dominans Erica frigida Euclea coriacea Eucomis autumnalis Eulophia Eumorphia prostrata Eumorphia sericea Euphorbia clavarioides Euryops decumbens Euryops tysonii Taxon Eragrostis plana Eragrostis planiculmis 1 Erica alopecurus 1 1 Eriocaulon dregei * 3 3 clavata 1,3 3 1 1 3 Euphorbia ericoides 1 Euryops evansii Euryops laxus 1 Felicia filifolia exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 13 of 34 | Original research Abundance common Very Common Common Common Common common Very Not common Common Common Common common Very common Very Common Common Not common Common Not Common Not common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Rare Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Grazed Grazed Brooms Medicinal Medicinal Ornamental Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Growth Form Forb Herb Grass Grass Grass Forb Herb Herb Subshrub Herb Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Herb Dwarf shrublet Dwarf shrublet Shrub Herb Shrublet Herb Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names mamileng, mosala-tsela letsiri lekolojane thejana, qojoana mokhabebe mokhabebe theleli qobo thitapoho tsikitlane hlapi-e-kholo tsebe-ea-pela moithimolo koete-le-boima Common names Goat-beard grass Thimble grass Gazania, Terracotta common Gazania African gladiolus Lesotho lily Milkweed Milkweed River stars Mild rhubarb declared legally protected in the country 3 dalenii

E.Mey. Lesotho endemic;

2

Nees (L.) Aiton f. (L.f.) Baill. (L.f.) N.E.Br. (L.) Cass. Hillard & Burtt N.E. Br. N.E. Hook f. L. (Rolfe) Hilliard & Burtt Less. (Hilliard) B.Peterson VanGeel subsp. VanGeel (Cass.)Sch.Bip. C.H.Wright (Thunb.) Nees Nees Nees Thunb. P.F.Yeo DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Festuca caprina Geranium drakensbergensis Gladiolus dalenii Gladiolus saundersii Glumicalyx lesuticus Glumicalyx nutans Gnidia aberrans Gnidia propinqua Gunnera perpensa Taxon Felicia muricata Felicia rosulata 1 Festuca costata sesleriiformis Fingerhuthia Gazania krebsiana 1 Hilliard&B.L.Burtt Geranium multisectum Geranium pulchrum Gerbera ambigua Gerbera piloselloides Geum capense 3 1 2 1 1 1 Gomphocarpus fruticosus Gomphocarpus physocarpus Gomphostigma virgatum 3 exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 14 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common common Very common Very Common Common Not common Common common Very Common Common Not common Not common Common Common Common Not common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Medicinal Grazed Medicinal Ointment Medicinal Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Growth Form Herb Herb Grass Herb Herb Herb Shrublet Shrub Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Dwarf shrub Herb Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names lefokololi moshoa-fela tsitoane leabane tooane-balingoana-e- tsoeu tsebe-ea-phofu papetloana, khutsana, lengoako hokobetsi phate-ea-ngaka Molepelle phefo-ea-liliba

Common names Rabbits ears gerbera False Caterpillar grass white ink-flower Tall straw- Yellow-tipped flowers Speelwonderblom (Afrikaans) snowball everlasting Tiny declared legally protected in the country 3 Hilliard & Hilliard DC. Lesotho endemic; 2 DC. (DC.) Harv. Klatt Hilliard pulchra Hilliard DC. . (L.) D.Don (Houtt) Merrill var. Harv. DC. Harv. Hilliard H Jacq. Moeser Choisy (= Bernh. (L.f.)Kuntze Hilliard DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Harveya huttonii Hebenstretia dura Helichrysum aureum Helichrysum basalticum Helichrysum bellum Helichrysum hyphocephalum Helichrysum marginatum Taxon Haemanthus humilis Haplocarpha scaposa Harpochloa falx 1 Burtt) Harveya speciosa 1 Helichrysum cymosum Helichrysum trilineatum Helichrysum allioides 1 serotinum 1 1 Helichrysum caespititium Helichrysum chionosphaerum Helichrysum glomeratum 1 Helichrysum krookii Helichrysum lingulatum 1 Helichrysum mundtii exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 15 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common common Very Common Not common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Not common Common Not common Common Not common Common Common Not common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Uses Tea Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal, ornamental Medicinal Firewood Firewood Grazed Corms eaten Growth Form Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrublet Herb Shrub Shrub Grass Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Herb Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names boleba, lebeko mohlomela-tsie, tee-ea- baroa phefo tooane-ea-metsi tooane-ea-meru molepelle hokobetsi khukhu-e-nyane khahla Common names Hottentot’s tea Most fragrant helichrysum Cape gold Small oats grass Scarlet river lily declared legally protected in the country 3 baurii Lesotho endemic; (L.) Sweet 2 H.Bolus (Stapf) Schweick. Hilliard (Thunb.) Less. Harv. N.E.Br. Hilliard DC. (L.) Less. Hilliard & Burtt (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Harv. Hilliard & B.L.Burtt (Backh. & Harv.) (Backh. & Harv.) Hilliard & Burtt Baker subsp. sp. Mill. DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Helichrysum praecurrens Helichrysum retortoides Helichrysum sessilioides Helichrysum witbergense Heliophila formosa Hesperantha crocopsis Taxon Helichrysum nudifolium Helichrysum var. nudifolium (L.) Less. Beentje pilosellum (L.f.) Helichrysum odoratissimum 1 1 1 Helichrysum Helichrysum spiralepis Helichrysum splendidum Helichrysum sutherlandii Helichrysum trilineatum 1 Helictotrichon turgidulum 1 Hermannia coccocarpa Kuntze Hermannia sandersonii Hesperantha baurii Hesperantha coccinea Goldblatt & J.C.Manning 1 exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 16 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common common Very common Very Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Not common Not common Common Not common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Rare Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Medicinal Thatching Thatching Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Fishing Ornamental Medicinal Grazing Medicinal Growth Form Tree Forb Herb Herb Grass Grass Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Shrublet Shrublet Herb Tree Herb Herb Forb Grass Herb Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names monkhoane shoeshoe-ea-loti mohlomo qokoa moli-kharetsa moli-boea khato pokaetsi, phiri-ea- hlaha, sesepa-sa-linoha, letsoalo leloele-la-loti leloele boshoane hlele-hlele bohlokoana holi sesepa-sa-linoha lekhatsi leloele lerete-la-ntja Common names Parsley-tree Guilted-leaved vernonia Common thatching grass Blue thatching grass Spindly hypericum star-flower Silver-leaved indingo Wedge-leaved peach Wild Lesotho red-hot poker poker Evan’s Broad-leaved poker June grass tops Tremble declared legally protected in the country 3

Lesotho endemic; 2 (Spreng.) Cham. (Hiern) Hilliard

(Hochst. ex A.Rich.) (Hochst.

(DC.)Roessler

Eckl. & Zeyh. Baker Eckl. & Zeyh. (Lindl.) Reichb.f. (Steud.) Stapf Bak. (Bolus) Källersjö Choisy (Sond.) A.Meeuse Codd Baker (DC.) H.Rob. (L.) Stapf L. (Steud.) Nees Baker Baker Burch. ex Ker Gawl Burch. ex Ker sp. Kuntze abyssinica DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Kniphofia evansii Kniphofia hirsuta Heteromorpha arborescens Hirpicium armerioides Hyparrhenia hirta Hyparrhenia tamba Hypoxis costata Inulanthera thodei Jamesbrittenia pristisepala Kniphofia caulescens Kniphofia northiae Taxon 3 & Schltdl. var. H.Wolff Hilliardiella hirsuta 3 Holothrix scopularia 3 3 Hypericum lalandii 3 Hypoxis obtusa Hypoxis rigidula Indigofera cuneifolia 1 1 Jamesbrittenia capensis Kedrostris Kiggelaria africana 3 1,3 1,3 3 capensis Koeleria amatymbica Kohautia exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 17 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Not common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Not common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Firewood Medicinal Grazed Medicinal Ornamental Grains Protector Medicinal Medicinal Growth Form Herb Herb Shrublet Herb Shrublet Tree Forb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Herb Shrub Shrublet Shrub Herb Shrub Shrublet Forb Forb Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names cheche tenane musa-pelo-oa-matlapa- o-monyenyana motoaitoai mamotasi koena-ea-mekhoabo leptjetlane namele musa-pelo musa-pelo musa-pelo tsika-metsi mosita-tlali monyeloa-ke-ntja mofahla-toeba koena Common names Cooper’s ledebouria Hairy lotononis mountain Cancer-bush, ballon pea Lessertia Oldwood Horehound Maroon honey-flower mint Water spearmint Wild declared legally protected in the country 3

Lesotho endemic; 2 (L.f.) Eckl.&Zeyh. (L.f.) (Scott-Elliot) B.-E. (Baker) S.Venter & (Baker) S.Venter Benth. N.E.Br. Eckl. & Zeyh. Vahl L. Hilliard & Burtt Benth. frutescens Compton (Jacq.) DC. Eckl. & Zeyh. (L.) Goldblatt & (Hook. f.) Jessop (Hook. f.) Dummer (L.) Huds. Harv. L. Schltr. Eckl. & Zeyh. DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Marrubium vulgare Mentha longifolia Leucosidea sericea Leucosidea Limosella vesiculosa galpinii Lobelia galpinii Lotononis sericophylla Lotononis Macowania pulvinaris Macowania sororis Mentha aquatica Taxon cooperi Ledebouria sandersonii Ledebouria T.J.Edwards divaricata Leobordea depressa Lessertia frutescens Lessertia subsp. J.C.Manning perennans Lessertia 3 Limosella grandiflora 1 1 1 laxa Lotononis lotononoides Lotononis vanWyk 1 1 1 * Melianthus comosus Melolobium microphyllum 3 # exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 18 of 34 | Original research Abundance common Very common Very common Very common Very Common Common common Very Not common Not Common Common Not common Common Common Not Common Common Common Common Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Near Threatened Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Least Concern Data Deficient Taxonomically Problematic Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Uses Medicinal Thatching, brooms, ropes, hats, mats Thatching Fumigant Ornamental Thatching Stabilising riverbanks Ornamental Corms eaten Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Vegetables Growth Form Herb Grass Grass Shrub Herb Grass Grass Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Shrub Herb Shrub Herb Forb Herb Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names molalahlolo tee mothala teele-e-kholo qhekoe maleleka moroka-pheleu kherere mosea, mosika-nokana, molala-hlolo semetsing, selae (Afrikaans) Common names Large blue scilla Drakensberg steekbos o’clock Four East-coast broom grass daba grass Wireleaf Bloutulp Lance-leaved waxberry Forget-me-not Cape myrtle Watercress Nemesia declared legally protected in the country 3

Lesotho endemic; 2 A.DC. (J.G.Anders.) (J.G.Anders.) (Stapf) Conert

R.Br. (Nees) Mabb. (Stapf) Pilg. Bolus (Lindl.) Speta Hiern (Goldblatt) Goldblatt Hilliard Killick L. (Lam.) P.O.Karis (Lam.) Killick L. Goldblatt Goldblatt Baker J.P.Roux DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Merxmuellera macowanii Mirabilis jalapa Merxmuellera stereophylla Miscanthus ecklonii Mohria rigida Moraea alpina Moraea alticola Morella serrata Muraltia flanaganii Taxon Merwilla plumbea 1,3 3 Conert Metalasia densa * 1 Miscanthus junceus 1 1 1 Moraea brevistyla Moraea modesta Moraea stricta 3 1 Myosotis semiamplexicaulis Myrsine africana Nasturtium officinale Nemesia caerulea Nemesia rupicola exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 19 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Not common Not common Not common Common Common Common Common Common common Very common Very common Very Not Common common Very Common common Very common Very IUCN Conservation Status Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Uses Tobacco Forb Medicinal Grazing Eaten Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Grazing Firewood Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Grazing Grazing Growth Form Herb Aquatic Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Herb Herb Forb Herb Grass Shrub Shrub Herb Herb Herb Herb Grass Grass Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names boli-ba-lipoli leshokhoa lekhapu lekhapu setalane mahae lijo-tsa-noko, mametsana bolila sehlohlo bolila-ba-litsoene bolila-ba-litsoene qojoana mohloa-tsepe Kikiyu Common names tobacco Woodland evening primrose Yellow Grass-leaved Green berg lily Oblique-leaved sorrel Narrow-leaved sorrel Mountain pachycarpus Orange poppy Drakensberg passerina Mountain passerina trailing pelargonium Pink Carrot-leaved pelargonium Large-leaved ranunculus declared legally protected in the country 3

airoides (Eckl. & Lesotho endemic; 2 Hilliard & Burtt (L.) L’Hér. Hochst. ex Chiov. (I.Verd.) (I.Verd.) Jacq. Markötter E.Mey. (L.f.) Bytebier subsp. (L.f.) Harv. Poir. Speg. & Comes (MacOwan) Tamura Thoday Nees subsp. Thunb. Kunth. (L.f.) J.C.Manning & J.C.Manning (L.f.) Steud. ex A.Rich. Eckl. & Zeyh. B. Nord. B. (Rolfe) Bytebier DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Nicotiana sylvestris Oenothera elata dilatatum Paspalum clandestinum Pennisetum Osteospermum thodei vexillaris Pachycarpus drakensbergensis Passerina montana Passerina Taxon * Nidorella pinnata Goldblatt * Ornithogalum juncifolium Ornithogalum viridiflorum & Goldblatt J.C.Manning Orthochilus aculeatus huttonii 1 Othonna burttii Oxalis obliquifolia Oxalis smithiana 3 aculeatum Papaver * 1 1 alchemilloides Pelargonium bowkeri Pelargonium ranunculophyllum Pelargonium Zeyh.) Baker baurii Peltocalathos * airoides Pentameris exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 20 of 34 | Original research Abundance common Very common Very common Very Common Common Common common Very Common Common Common Common Common Not common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Not common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Data Deficient Insufficient Information Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Grazing Grazing Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Thatching Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Firewood Medicinal Ornamental Eaten Medicinal Ornamental Medicinal Medicinal Growth Form Grass Grass Shrub Herb Herb robust Grass Herb Shrub Herb Tree Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Shrub Herb Shrub Fern Aquatic Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial phaena Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names lelingoana lehlaka ntsebele-ea-moru lehorometso tolo-la-khongoana-le- lenyenyane khamane-ea-noka mafifi-matso mafifi-matso monatja bolilanyana, setla- bocha lephelephele lephelephele Common names Knotweed Spotted knotweed Common reed River bells Southern phygelius Inkberry tree Pine Narrow-leaved ribwort, plantain Blue yonder African potato spur-flower Tuberous September bush broom Purple Arching fronds declared legally protected in the country 3

Lesotho endemic; 2 Briq. Hiern

N.C. Anthony & N.C. N.E.Br. (L.) Gray Hilliard & Burtt (Schweick.) Galley & L. L. Briq. (Cav.)Steud. Chodat (Thunb.) Galley & (R.Br.) K.L.Wilson (R.Br.) Burtt Davy E.Mey. ex Benth. E.Mey. L. Harv. Ex Harv. Harv. Thunb. D.Don DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Persicaria lapathifolia Persicaria Phytolacca octandra radiata Pinus Plantago lanceolata Plectranthus dolichopodus Phragmites australis monticola Polystichum Taxon oreodoxa Pentameris H.P.Linder setifolia Pentameris H.P.Linder cooperi Pentzia decipiens Persicaria * 3 Phygelius aequalis Phygelius capensis * * * * Plectranthus esculentus Plectranthus grallatus simplicior Polemannia gracilenta Polygala myrtifolia Polygala rhinostigma Polygala virgata Polygala 1 Schelpe exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 21 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common common Very Common Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common Common Common Common Common common Very common Very common Very Common IUCN Conservation Status Not evaluated Not evaluated Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Rare Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Uses Poles, Firewood Poles, Firewood Poles, Firewood Medicinal Ornamental Medicinal Fruits Fruits Medicinal Hedge Medicinal Vegetables Medicinal eaten Tuber Growth Form Tree Tree Tree Herb Herb Shrub Herb Herb Tree Tree Fern Orchid Herb Herb Tree Herb Herb Herb Tree Forb Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial papoleri perekisi Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names maipopo lekhisa mofifi seoelioetla, sehoete, sebalibetloa sereleli joang-ba-metsi-bo- boholo sephomolo bolila-ba-linku-ba-metsi tlhapi

Common names Eastern cottonwood Black poplar Grey poplar Common purslane Narrow-leaved pondweed Giant daisy bush Apricot tree tree Peach Bracken fern Narrowleaf firethorn Bog buttercup Common buttercup mustard Wild Glossyleaf Dogwood carpet bean Yellow declared legally protected in the country 3 Lesotho endemic; 2

(Franch.) (Franch.) Forsk. sens. lat. Forsk. (Aiton) Sm. L. Rolfe (L.) Sw. (L.) All. (Parkman & Schelpe) (Parkman (L.) Kuhn L. L’Hèrit Harv. L. Marshall Harv. (Thunb.) DC. Less. (L.) Batsch (Bolus) Leins L.

DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Populus deltoides Populus nigra Populus x canescens Populus oleracea Portulaca armeniaca Prunus persica Prunus Pyracantha angustifolia Rapistrum rugosum Printzia nutans Printzia Rhamnus prinoides Taxon * * * * pusillus Potomageton auriculata Printzia 1 pyrifolia Printzia * * Pteridium aquilinum Pterygodium alticola & Goldblatt J.C.Manning Pterygodium caffrum Pterygodium cooperi * C.K.Schneid. Ranunculus meyeri Ranunculus multifidus * 3 Rhynchosia totta exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 22 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common common Very Common common Very common Very Common common Very Common Common Common Not Common common Very Common Not common Common Common Not Common Common Common common Very IUCN Conservation Status Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Uses Poles, Firewood Vegetable Hedge, Cosmetics Medicinal Firewood Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Firewood Medicinal Medicinal Growth Form Tree Herb Shrub Herb Tree Tree Orchid Herb Herb Herb Herb Shrub Shrub Shrub Herb Herb Herb Herb Subshrub Herb Forb Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names moluoane mohlohloane kolitsane marama-a-baroetsana marama-a-baroetsana- a-masoeu lenyofane leoka papasane moroboi bolila-bo-boholo selomi kobo-ea-Marena sehoete-moru kolitsana marama-a-baroetsana marama-a-baroetsana Moferefere Common names Black locust cress Yellow rosehip Sweet-briar, Climbing rumex willow Weeping Basket willow Blushing bride satyrium scabious Wild Golden flat-flower Hilliard’s schizoglosum Grassveld currant leaves currant Rusty Common currant declared legally protected in the country 3

Sond. (DC.) Fenzl. (DC.) Fenzl. E.Mey. subsp. E.Mey. Lesotho endemic; 2 Kupicha L. Thell. L

Lindl.

Gilg Thunb. DC. Schinz Gilg Rolfe (Eckl. & Zeyh.) Moffett L. L. Gilg Killick (E.Mey. ex Sond.) (E.Mey. (Burch.) Moffett L. DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Robinia pseudoacacia Rorippa nudiuscula Rosa rubiginosa Rumex sagittatus Salix babylonica Salix fragilis Schizoglossum hilliardiae Searsia discolor Sebaea marlothii Sebaea thodeana Selago flanaganii Taxon * * * * * * Satyrium longicauda Scabiosa columbaria Schistostephium crataegifolium ex Harv. Schizoglossum atropurpureum atropurpureum 1 1 Searsia divaricata Searsia pyroides 1 Sebaea natalensis Sebaea sedoides 1 1 Selago trauseldii Senecio asperulus exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 23 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Not common common Very common Very common Very Common Common Common IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Uses Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Herbal tea Firewood Parasitic Dye Medicinal Firewood Thatching Grazed Vegetable Grazing Growth Form Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Dwarf shrub Herb Herb Herb Shrub Herb Forb Herb Shrub Grass Grass Grass Shrublet Forb Grass Aquatic Terrestrial Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial monkhane, Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names khotolia-ea-noka taraputsoe lechuchutha leqala, tsehlanyane seboku lehlomane-le-leholo lehlongoane-le-leholo lehlomane-le-leholo sebea-mollo lehlomane lelutla-la-pula limomonyane sehalahala lenyoka marakalle moetse-oa-pere Khakiweed Common names cabbage Dan’s Sobosobo berry Bankrupt bush Small witchweed Common dandelion camphor bush Wild Copper wire grass Drakensberg bamboo Red grass goat’s beard Yellow declared legally protected in the country 3 (Thunb.) Lesotho endemic; (Nees) 2 L. . (Nees) Ekman DC. sens. lat.

bilabiata DC. Harv. Weber sensu lato Weber

Dunal Scop. Wood&Evans C.Jeffrey A.W.Hill DC. DC. Forssk. DC. (Nees) N.P.Barker & (Nees) N.P.Barker L. (L.) Thunb subsp. Aiton disticha DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Tagetes minuta Tagetes officinale Taraxacum dubius Tragopogon Senecio seminiveus disticha Tenaxia Thamnocalamus tessellatus Taxon Senecio humidanus Senecio inornatus Senecio isatideus Senecio macrocephalus Senecio othonniflorus Senecio rhomboideus 1 Silene bellidioides Solanum retroflexum Stachys rugosa Stoebe plumosa Striga bilabiata O.Kuntze * * camphoratus Tarchonanthus 3 var. H.P.Linder 3 Sonderstrom & Ellis Themeda triandra Thesium costatum * grandiglumis Trichoneura exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 24 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Common Common common Very Common common Very Common Common Not Common Not Common Common Not Common Not common Not common Common Common Common Common common Very IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Not evaluated Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Not evaluated Uses Medicinal Grazing Grazing Medicinal Hat Vegetables Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Ropes Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Medicinal Whistles Growth Form Forb Forb Grass Herb Forb Herb Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Fern Herb Herb Herb Herb Herb Forb Herb Herb Herb Forb Aquatic Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Habitat Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Aquatic Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names motsitla bobatsi seliba/Motetele moroko moelela moopetsane moferangope lefiroane leoto-la-khoho theleli lebohlollo, mohalalitoe mohalalitoe pilopilo Common names clover Wild Hairy trident grass garlic Wild Cape valerian verbena, purple top Tall bell-flowers Fairy Ashwagandha lily Small black-stick Scented xysmalobium Octopus cartwheel Mountain uzura Short-tubed drumsticks White arum lily Arrow-leaved arum Redstar zinnia declared legally protected in the country 3

krebsii Scott Elliot Lesotho endemic; (E. Mey.) Decne. (E. Mey.) 2 (Hook.) Baill. L. (O.Kuntze) (O.Kuntze) Harv. ex Scott Harv. (Spreng.)Hieron. (L.) Spreng. Ser. Killick L. Cham. subsp. Trin. ex Nees Trin. (L.) Dunal Harv. Thunb. Baker B.Nord. (L.) L. L. (Rohrb.) N.E.Br. L. DMC (EMR) endemic; Plant species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) 1 Trifolium repens Trifolium Urtica urens bonariensis Verbena Zinnia peruviana Valeriana capensis Valeriana montevidensis Woodsia burttii Wurmbea Xysmalobium involucratum Xysmalobium stockenstromense Taxon burchellianum Trifolium * leucothrix Tristachya acutiloba Tulbaghia capensis Typha * 1 * anagallis-aquatica Veronica krebsii Wahlenbergia Withania somnifera 1 1 Xerophyta viscosa 3 Xysmalobium parviflorum Elliot 3 Zaluzianskya microsiphon K.Schum. Zaluzianskya pulvinata Zantedeschia aethiopica Zantedeschia albomaculata * exotic; Table 1. Table *

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 25 of 34 | Original research rosehip (Rosa rubiginosa L.). Even though some of the birds, fish, reptiles and amphibians), and these are dis- exotic species are invasive, such as yellowcress (Rorippa cussed in more detail in the sections that follow. nudiuscula Thell.) and khakiweed (Tagetes minuta L.), some of these exotic species are of commercial impor- Mammals: A total of 16 mammal species were recorded tance. For example, rosehip is consumed for its edible in the proposed BR, including rodents, jackal, antelope, fruits and is also used for medicinal purposes. In fact, dassies, rabbits and baboons (Table 2). Seven of the 16 re- Lesotho is currently exporting rosehip fruits to Germany corded species are declared legally protected, and these for making tea and jam, as well as for the production of include African clawless otter (Aonyx capensis Schinz, essential oils used in the cosmetics industry. The residue 1821), Cape porcupine (Hystrix africaeaustralis Peters, from the plant is reported to induce fertility in animals 1852), chacma baboon (Papio ursinus ursinus (Kerr, (Kobisi et al. 2019). Sixty of the 380 recorded species 1792)), grey rhebok (Pelea capreolus (Forster, 1790)) are endemic to the DMC. Two of the recorded species and common eland (Tragelaphus oryx (Pallas, 1766)). are endemic to Lesotho namely Glumicalyx lesuticus The common eland seems to have been previously Hillard & Burtt and spiral aloe (Aloe polyphylla Schönl. widespread in the country, as evidenced by the many ex Pillans, Figure 3C), whereas Othonna burttii B.Nord. occurrences of rockart (Figures 3H, I). However, the spe- and Lesotho lily (Gladiolus saundersii Hook.f., Figure 3D) cies was locally extirpated mainly due to hunting prior are near endemic. Spiral aloe is the national flower of to being reintroduced into TNP following declaration of Lesotho and is under threat due to illegal trade. Some the area as a PA. In comparison, LHDA (1998a, 1998b) natural populations are now extinct from certain areas in reported 11 mammals in BNR and 12 in TNP, based on the country where the plant used to be abundant (pers. reports from field staff in the area. Even though a limited obs.). However, it is surprising that spiral aloe is listed number of mammals have been recorded in the current as Vulnerable, whereas G. lesuticus and O. burttii have study, archaeological records indicate that several spe- an IUCN conservation status of Least Concern, despite cies of mammals were historically (during the Holocene) their limited distribution and population in the country. widespread in the country (Grab & Nash 2020). These On the other hand, G. lesuticus and O. burttii have not include aardwolf (Proteles cristata Sparrman, 1783), Af- previously been recorded by authors who documented rican wild cat (Felis lybica Forster, 1780), black-backed the flora of Lesotho (e.g. Phillips 1917; Jacot Guillarmod jackal (Canis mesomelas Schreber, 1775), black wilde- 1971; Schmitz 1982; Kobisi 2005), even though these beest (Connochaetes gnou (Zimmermann, 1780)), bles- plants have been listed as Lesotho endemics (NES 2000) bok (Damaliscus pygargus phillipsi Harper, 1939), Cape and are Red Listed (Talukdar 2002). fox (Vulpes chama (A.Smith, 1833)), common genet (Ge- netta genetta (Linnaeus, 1758)), scrub hare (Lepus sax- A notably conspicuous but locally uncommon fern, atilis F.Cuvier, 1823), klipspringer (Oreotragus oreotragus known as bracken (Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn, Fig- (Zimmermann, 1783)), mountain reedbuck (Redunca ure 3F), which has a narrow distribution in Lesotho, fulvorufula (Afzelius, 1815)), red hartebeest (Alcelaphus was also recorded in TNP. Cooper-Driver et al. (2008) buselaphus (Pallas, 1766)), rock hyrax (Procavia capensis stated that even though bracken is a common weedy (Pallas, 1766)), slender mongoose (Galerella sanguinea plant worldwide, it is surprisingly rare in Lesotho. (Rüppell, 1835)), springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis (Zim- Bracken was found forming a colony within a thicket of mermann, 1780)), Cape porcupine (H. africaeaustralis), oldwood in TNP at an elevation of 2 037 masl, at GPS steenbok (Raphicerus campestris (Thunberg, 1811)) and coordinates of S 28°55’ 28.5”, E 028°26’ 44.8”. The common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus (Gmelin, only other records of this plant in the country are Ha 1788)) (Grab & Nash 2020). Given the drastic extinction Ntsi, on the way to Mohale Dam, and Ha Mamokoaqo rate of fauna species in Lesotho, the recording of six of in the Leribe District, collected by Dieterlen in 1903 these species in the current study, namely African wild (Cooper-Driver et al. 2008). The fern is unique in that cat, black-backed jackal, common genet, scrub hare, it is very large compared to other common fern species rock hyrax and Cape porcupine, adds to the biodiversity occurring in the country, growing to a height of 1.5 m. value of the proposed BR. However, absence of some of these species currently reveals a major loss of fauna in Lesotho over the past 200 years as discussed by Grab Fauna and Nash (2020).

Even though a majority of wild species of fauna has been Birds: Fifty-three bird species were recorded in the hunted down close to extinction in different parts of the proposed BR, 13 of which are declared legally protect- country, a number of species still exist in the proposed ed in the country (Table 3). It is important to note that BR, particularly birds and mammals. As a result, many two of the 13 protected species, namely Cape Vulture of these species are declared legally protected in the (Gyps coprotheres (Forster, 1798)) and Bearded Vulture country, and these include antelope, baboons, monkeys, (Gypaetus barbatus (Linnaeus, 1758)), have a limited bearded vultures, other birds of prey, cranes, storks and distribution and are globally listed as Endangered and herons. A number of species have been recorded in the Near Threatened respectively (Hockey et al. 2006). current study for the five classes of vertebrates (mammals, Indeed LHDA (1998a, 1998b) reported a total of ten

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Table 2. Mammals species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho

Taxon Common names Vernacular IUCN Habitat Abundance (Sesotho) names Conservation Status 3Aonyx capensis Schinz African clawless otter qibi Near Aquatic Not Common Threatened Canis mesomelas Schreber Black-backed jackal Phokojoe Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common 3Caracal caracal Schreber Caracal Thoalere Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common Cryptomys hottentotus Common african Mokunyane Least Concern Terrestrial Common Lesson mole-rat Felis lybica Schreber African wild cat Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common 3Galerella pulverulenta Small grey mongoose Mochalla Least Concern Terrestrial Common Wagner Genetta genetta L. Small-spotted genet Qoako Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common 3Hystrix africaeaustralis Peters Cape porcupine Noko Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common Ictonyx striatus Perry Striped polecat Nakeli Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common Leptailurus serval Schreber Serval Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common Lepus saxatilis F. Cuvier Scrub hare Mutlanyana Least Concern Terrestrial Common Mystromys albicaudatus White-tailed rat Vulnerable Terrestrial Not Common Smith Otomys sloggetti Thomas Sloggett’s ice rat Leboli-leqhoa Least Concern Terrestrial Very Common 3Papio cynocephalus ursinus Chacma baboon Tsoene Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common Kerr 3Pelea capreolus Forster Grey rhebok Letsa Near Terrestrial Common Threatened Procavia capensis Pallas Rock dassie Pela Least Concern Terrestrial Very Common Pronolagus rupestris A.Smith Red rock rabbit Thlolo Least Concern Terrestrial Common 3Tragelaphus oryx Pallas Common eland Phoofu Least Concern Terrestrial Not Common

3Declared legally protected in the country

Red-listed bird species, including the Cape Vulture and of the species has declined drastically, mainly due to Bearded Vulture in both BNR and TNP. Even though hunting of adults and robbery of eggs and chicks, as their common breeding sites are the high elevation well as fire, decline in food supply, gin traps and col- cliffs in Lesotho, the two bird species occassionally mi- lection of the birds for skins and plumage. In addition, grate to neighbouring countries such as South Africa, since the Bearded Vulture is a specialised species in Botswana, northern Namibia and southern Zimbabwe terms of its habitat requirements and food choice, Co- (Hockey et al. 2006). Lesotho has also legally protect- lahan (2004) suggested establishment of partnerships ed the two bird species (under Legal Notice No. 36 of between conservation organisations for management 1969, as amended by Legal Notice No. 93 of 2004 and and conservation of the population. Several efforts are No. 38 of 2006), as well as listing them under the Con- currently being undertaken by the Department of En- vention on International Trade in Endangered Species vironment in Lesotho (of the Ministry of Tourism, Envi- of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). ronment and Culture) together with South Africa, un- der a bilateral programme targeted towards enhanced Lesotho is reported to be the main breeding ground breeding of the species. A Bearded Vulture Manage- to the rare Bearded Vulture in southern Africa (NES ment Plan has also been developed for conservation 2000). A study by Donázar et al. (1993) revealed that of the species. elevation and ruggedness of the topography probably influence the existence of adequate breeding places The decline of Bearded Vulture populations has also for the Bearded Vulture, as is the case in the proposed been observed in other parts of the world. For ex- BR, however, human disturbance negatively affects the ample, the decline is reported to have started in the breeding success of the bird. In fact, the population mid-nineteenth century in Europe and North America,

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 27 of 34 | Original research Abundance Not Common Common Not Common Common Not Common Common Common Common Common Not Common Common Common Common Common Common Not Common Common Not Common Not Common Common Not Common Not Common Common Common Habitat Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Near Threatened Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Near Threatened Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Near Threatened Endangered Least Concern Least Concern Form aquatic insect eater, Fish Insects-eater Birds of Prey Birds of Prey Insects and frogs eater Medium-sized mammals and birds Birds of Prey Rock Jumper Seeds-eater Birds of Prey Insects-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Birds of Prey Birds of Prey Insects-eater Birds of Prey Bird of Prey Insects-eater Insects-eater Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names letata tšaase-ea-loti moja-lipela kokolofitoe lengangane khajoane mamolisa-lipela leeba-la-thaba lekhoaba sethoena-moru khoale maborokoane maborokoane maborokoane phakoe seotsanyana mokhotlo ntsu-kobokobo lenong, letlaaka lekabelane lehaqasi Common names African Black Duck Mountain Pipit Black Eagle Grey Heron Hadeda Ibis Cape Eagle-owl Jackal Buzzard Drakensberg Rockjumper Speckled Rock Pigeon White-necked Raven Cape Robin-chat Common Quail Cape Bunting Golden-breasted Bunting Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Swee Waxbill Red-collared Widowbird Lanner Falcon Rock Kestrel Southern Bald Ibis Bearded Vulture Cape Vulture White-throated Swallow Greater Striped Swallow

Latham Stephens L. Layard Strickland Boddaert Forster L. Smith Temminck Forster Lesson Boddaert L. L. Boddaert Latham Temminck L. Stresemann Dupont Smith Eyton Bird species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho Aquila verreauxii Ardea cinerea Bostrychia hagedash Buteo rufofuscus Columba guinea biarmicus Falco rupicolis Falco Geronticus calvus Gypaetus barbatus Gyps coprotheres Taxon Anas sparsa Anthus hoeschi 3 3 3 Bubo capensis 3 Chaetops aurantius 3 Corvus albicollis Cossypha caffra Coturnix coturnix Emberiza capensis Emberiza flaviventris Emberiza tahapisi Estrilda melanotis Euplectes ardens 3 3 3 3 3 Hirundo albigularis Hirundo cucullata Declared legally protected in the country Table 3. Table 3

http://abcjournal.org | | Open access Page 28 of 34 | Original research Abundance Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Not Common Common Not Common Common Common Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Aquatic Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Near Threatened Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Vulnerable Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Form Insects-eater Bird of Prey Birds of Prey Insects-eater Insects-eater Insects-eater and nectar Seeds-eater Insects-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Fish-eater Seeds-eater Insects-eater Seeds-eater Insects-eater Insects-eater Birds of Prey Seeds-eater crabs Frogs, Seeds-eater Insects-eater Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names leholi tšemeli tšemeli mohetle motjoli taletale khaka letsomila seroebele seroebele seroebele seinuli letholoptjoe motinyane khoale lekabelane hlakahlothoana, mamolangone tlhatsinyane mamasianoke tsoere nkhonoa-litali Common names Starling African Pied Common Fiscal Flycatcher Fiscal Sentinel Rock Thrush Cape Wagtail Malachite Sunbird Female Helmeted Guinea Fowl Starling Red-Winged House Sparrow Cape Sparrow Bush Yellow-throated Sparrow White-breasted Cormorant Cape Weaver Karoo Prinia Spurfowl Swainson’s Rock Martin African Red-eyed Bulbul Secretarybird African Stonechat Hamerkop Cape Canary Cape Grassbird

J. F. F. J. L. ) Vieillot Vieillot Gmelin Blyth (= Smith Shaw L. L. L. L. . Gmelin Gmelin L. Statius Müller Swainson L Boddaert L. Bird species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) Sagittarius serpentarius Scopus umbretta Taxon Lamprotornis bicolor Lanius collaris Melaenornis silens Monticola explorator Motacilla capensis Nectarinia famosa Numida meleagris Onychognathus morio domesticus Passer melanurus Passer superciliaris Petronia Gymnoris superciliaris Phalacrocorax lucidus Lichtenstein Ploceus capensis maculosa Prinia Pternistis swainsonii Ptyonoprogne fuligula Lichtenstein Pycnonotus nigricans 3 Miller Saxicola torquata 3 Serinus canicollis Sphenoeacus afer Declared legally protected in the country Table 3. Table 3

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causing the populations to approach extinction (Oga- da et al. 2012). A similar observation has also been made in the Middle East, as well as Central and South America (Ogada et al. 2012). According to Di Vittorio et al. (2018), vulture populations in West Africa are Abundance Common Common Common Common Not Common Common Common Common also undergoing dramatic decline, particularly due to factors such as environmental changes, poisoning and bioaccumulation of toxic substances from agricultural products, pesticides, and veterinary drugs used in cattle livestock. In addition, the vultures are subject to direct Habitat Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial Terrestrial persecution for the trade of products used in traditional medicine (Di Vittorio et al. 2018). The proposed BR would assist in creating a platform for enhanced breed- ing of the species to increase the population size. In addition, raising awareness of the biodiversity wealth of the area amongst all residents and role-players could potentially result in reduced utilisation of natural re- sources specifically within the core areas. Interestingly, Birdlife International categorises the Lesotho Highlands

IUCN Conservation Status Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern Least Concern (under which the proposed BR falls) as an Endemic Bird Area of high priority and lists the Drakensberg Rock- jumper (Chaetops aurantius Layard, 1867), Mountain Pipit (Anthus hoeschi Stresemann, 1938) and Drakens- berg Siskin (Crithagra symonsi (Roberts, 1916)) to be of particular global interest (LHDA 1998a, 1998b). There- fore the proposed BR has potential to become a popu- lar spot for birders who are interested in high elevation species, and thus enhance tourism in the area.

Form Seeds-eater Seeds-eater Insects-eater Bird of Prey Seeds-eater Fish: Only two fish species were recorded in the current study namely Maloti minnow or Maloti redfin (Pseudo- barbus quathlambae (Barnard, 1938)), (Figure 3G) and rainbow trout (Oncorhyncus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792)), as summarized in Table 4. It is reported that Maloti min- now was first discovered in the headwaters of the uMk- homazana River in Kwazulu-Natal, South Africa (Barnard 1938), but was subsequently feared extinct (Jubb 1971). Vernacular (Sesotho) Vernacular names molala-motso mofubetsoana ptjemptjete sephooko molepe tjobolo mahloanalitsepe The fish was rediscovered at Sehlaba-thebe in Lesotho in 1970 (Jubb 1971). However, although the South African population was feared to be certainly extinct, the species was recently rediscovered in the Mzimkhulu River sys- tem in KwaZulu-Natal (Kubheka et al. 2017) and there- fore considered near endemic in Lesotho. The recording of Maloti minnow in the Bokong River during this survey adds tremendous clout to the biodiversity rationale of the proposed BR, particularly because the species is Le- sotho’s only known endemic vertebrate. However, rain-

Common names Dove Cape Turtle Laughing Dove Bokmakierie Thrush Kurrichane African Grass-Owl Whydah Pin-tailed Whydah Long-tailed Paradise Cape White-Eye bow trout have been introduced in the country. Indeed, LHDA (1998b) indicated that there was circumstantial evidence that rainbow trout were previously introduced L. into the Tšehlanyane River, and that a residual popula- Sundevall

L. tion existed downstream of TNP. Therefore, the occur- L. Smith rence of the two fish species in two separate rivers, min- Sundevall Pallas

Smith imises the possibility of one species being a threat to the other (feeding on the other).

Bird species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho (continued) Reptiles: A total of seven reptiles were recorded in the proposed BR, comprising four snakes and three lizards Tyto capensis Tyto Taxon Streptopelia capicola Streptopelia senegalensis zeylonus Telophorus libonyana Turdus 3 Vidua macroura Vidua paradisaea Zosterops virens Declared legally protected in the country Table 3. Table 3 (Table 5). Some of the snakes are venomous, namely

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Table 4. Fish species recorded in the first proposed Biosphere Reserve of Lesotho

Taxon Common names Vernacular IUCN Conservation Abandance (Sesotho) names Status *Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum Rainbow trout trautu Not Evaluated common 2Pseudobarbus quathlambae Barnard Maloti minnow thoboshana Endangered common

*Introduced species; 2 Lesotho endemic berg adder (Bitis atropos (Linnaeus, 1758)), puff adder Amphibians are reported to be one of the most sensi- (Bitis arietans (Merrem, 1820)) and rinkhals (Hemacha- tive group of animals in the world which react rapidly tus haemachatus (Bonnaterre, 1790)). Berg adder is to substantial changes in their environments (Saber et known from high elevations in the Maloti–Drakens- al. 2017). As a result, they are useful indicators of pol- berg, but also occurs at lower elevations in the Cape lution and climate change. Fold Mountains of the Western Cape of South Africa (Barlow et al. 2019). On the other hand, LHDA (1998a, 1998b) previously reported six lizards and four snakes Other biophysical aspects (wetlands) in both BNR and TNP, including the Essex’s moun- Three major wetlands were observed in the core area of tain lizard (Tropidosaura essexi Hewitt, 1927), which is known only from the summit slopes of the KwaZu- the proposed BR, and four others in the transition zone. lu-Natal Drakensberg, the adjacent Free State province These wetlands do not only provide habitats for certain and the Lesotho Highlands. flora and fauna species, but also provide water for many river basins in the country as well as transboundary Amphibians: Three amphibian species were record- rivers. As a result, these wetlands play a major role in ed, two of which are aquatic, namely Drakensberg the ecology and hydrology of downstream systems in- frog (Amietia delalandii (Duméril & Bibron, 1841) and cluding the provision of water to the Katse Dam, which Maloti River Frog (Amietia vertebralis (Hewitt, 1927)), supplies water to Gauteng province in South Africa. as well as one terrestrial Bufonid, called Gariep toad In addition, the wetlands provide water for livestock or mountain toad (Vandijkophrynus gariepensis (Smith, drinking and domestic use to surrounding communi- 1848)), summarised in Table 6. Ametia delalandii and ties. However, it was observed that wetlands in the tran- A. vertebralis are reported as near endemic in the sition zone lack effective management systems and are country (NES 2000). A study by LHDA (1998a, 1998b) vulnerable to degradation and consequent reduction of reported seven amphibian species in both BNR and ecosystem services. Some sections within the wetlands TNP. These are African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis are intact while other patches are degrading due to Daudin, 1802), Gray’s stream frog (Strongylopus grayii erosion, thus threatening the intact portions. The long- (Smith, 1849)), Natal ghost frog (Heleophryne natal- term productivity of these ecosystems is threatened by ensis (Hewitt, 1913)) and ranger’s toad (Amietophry- encroachment through ploughing in surrounding fields nus rangeri Hewitt, 1935), as well as the three spe- and poor road construction practices. In addition, a cies recorded in the current study. Generally, Lesotho majority of wetlands in the transition zone are under is reported to have a total of 19 amphibian species, threat due to cropfield encroachment, roads/paths that with only two near-endemic species (NES 2000). go through them, as well as grazing. Similarly, a study

Table 5. A list of recorded reptiles

Taxon Common names Vernacular IUCN Conservation Form (Sesotho) Names Status Agama atra Peters Southern rock agama mankhoshepe Least Concern Agama Bitis arietans Merrem Puff adder marabe Not Evaluated Adder Bitis atropos L. Berg adder qooane Least Concern Adder Duberria lutrix lutrix Linnaeus Common slug-eater Least Concern Snake Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals masumo Least Concern Cobra-like Bonnaterre Snake Pseudocordylus melanotus Drakensberg crag lizard checheiki Least Concern Lizard A. Smith Trachylepis punctatissima Smith Montane speckled skink mokholutsoane Least Concern Skink Tropidosaura essexi Hewitt Essex’s mountain lizard Least Concern Lizard

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Table 6. A list of recorded amphibian species

Taxon Common names Vernacular Form Habitat IUCN Conservation (Sesotho) names Status Amietia delalandii Duméril and Drakensberg frog seqaqana Frog Aquatic Least Concern Bibron (= A. dracomontana Channing) Amietia vertebralis Hewitt Maluti river frog letlametlu Frog Aquatic Least Concern Vandijkophrynus gariepensis Gariep toad marokolo Toad Terrestrial Least Concern A. Smith Mountain toad by Chatanga et al. (2020) indicated that wetlands in Bokong Nature Reserve and Tšehlanyane National the Maloti–Drakensberg region are generally intensive- Park. The survey recorded a total of 380 plant species, ly utilised and degraded, with very high anthropogenic 60 of which are endemic to the Drakensberg Moun- pressures, particularly in the highlands of Lesotho. The tain Centre (formerly known as Drakensberg Alpine wetlands are also a habitat for Sloggett’s ice rat, which Centre), whereas 30 are declared legally protected in is endemic to southern Africa, being confined to South the country. Two plants endemic to Lesotho have been Africa and Lesotho. However, the species causes dam- documented in the area namely spiral aloe and Glu- age to the wetlands by digging holes that destroy the micalyx lesuticus. The former is the national flower of vegetation (Figures 3J, K). A study by Mokotjomela et al. Lesotho, which is under immense pressure in the wild (2009) revealed that the damage caused by Sloggett’s due to illegal trade. The near-endemic (confined to ice rat through soil erosion and loss exceeds effects of South Africa and Lesotho) Drakensberg bamboo was domestic livestock. This mammal species is also found found widespread in Tšehlanyane National Park, and in rocky habitats and alpine grassland, both wet and it is reported to provide a habitat for the Red-listed En- dry, at elevations of more than 2 000 m (6 600 ft). It is dangered butterfly species known as Metisella syrinx. reported in the Drakensberg Mountains of the Eastern However, the search for this butterfly during the survey Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa, as was not successful. well as Lesotho (Monadjem et al. 2015). In the case of fauna, 16 mammalian species were re- Notable plant species recorded in the wetlands include: corded, seven of which are declared legally protected copper wire grass (Merxmuellera macowanii (Stapf) in the country. These include Sloggett’s ice rat, which Conert), which is used for making crafts (brooms, bas- is endemic to southern Africa, being confined to South kets, traditional Basotho hats) and thatching, as well as Africa and Lesotho. This species is however, causing mild rhubarb (Gunnera perpensa L.), water mint (Mentha damage to the wetlands, which provide ecosystem ser- aquatica L.), and wild clover (Trifolium L. spp), used for vices such as water and livestock grazing. These wet- medicinal purposes. In addition, Lesotho red-hot poker lands supply water to the Katse Dam of the Lesotho (Kniphofia caulescens Baker) adds beautiful scenery to Highlands Water Project, which in turn provides water high elevation valleys of the Maloti–Drakensberg, partic- to parts of Gauteng in South Africa. A total of 53 bird ularly in summer (Figure 3E). This plant is endemic to the species were documented, 13 of which are declared le- Maloti–Drakensberg region, even though it is reported to gally protected. Among these are the Cape Vulture and be relatively rare on the South African side (being found Bearded Vulture, which are IUCN listed as Endangered in Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal). A study by Chatan- and Near Threatened respectively, and have limited ga et al. (2019) reported a total of 16 wetland types as- distribution being endemic to southern Africa. Lesotho sociated with the Maloti–Drakensberg region, and these is currently the main breeding ground for the Bearded include M. macowanii wetland, G. perpensa wetland, Vulture in southern Africa. Two fish species were re- K. caulescens wetland and Mentha longifolia–Juncus in- corded namely Maloti minnow and rainbow trout, with flexus wetland. The study also discussed the classifica- the former being Lesotho’s only known true endemic tion, description and environmental factors of montane vertebrate species. A total of seven reptiles were re- wetland vegetation of the Maloti–Drakensberg region. corded, three of which are venomous snakes namely puff adder, berg adder and rinkhals. In addition, three amphibian species were recorded, two of which are re- ported as near endemic in the country, namely Amietia Conclusion delalandii and A. vertebralis.

The current study provides findings of a rapid biodi- The survey has filled some gaps by providing valuable in- versity survey undertaken in Lesotho’s first proposed formation on the biodiversity (particularly regarding the Biosphere Reserve, the core area of which comprises flora and avifauna) of the proposed Biosphere Reserve.

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The presence of important species, i.e. some being en- Competing interests demic to Lesotho, endemic to the Maloti–Drakensberg area, Red Data-listed, or declared legally protected in The authors declare that they have no competing inte- the country, contribute tremendously to the biodiversity rests. value of the proposed BR. Therefore, the findings of the current study will contribute towards justification of the area to be nominated as Lesotho’s first Biosphere Re- Authors’contributions serve under the UNESCO MAB Programme. However, management plans of the proposed Biosphere Reserve LSK drafted the manuscript, KK and KM collected the should be developed, to address, amongst others, the data, and RPS edited the manuscript and added valu- challenges of managing invasive species and fire that able information. may negatively affect the biodiversity of the area. Funding Acknowledgements The study was financed by UNESCO viz; the UNESCO MAB Programme in Paris, the German Commission for The authors are grateful to UNESCO and the Lesotho UNESCO and the Lesotho National Commission for Government for financial support to undertake the UNESCO, as well as the Lesotho Government through study. We thank the two anonymous reviewers for their the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Culture useful suggestions to improve the manuscript. (MTEC).

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