Mohamed bin Zayed Species project number 242535863

Conservation and restoration of a critically endangered species in the Maputaland Endemic Centre

Memecylon incisilobum is an endemic species of the Maputaland coastal plain and is currently known from a single location in Bilene, Macia District, southern Mozambique, Africa.

The species is classified as Critically Endangered (CR) under the IUCN Red List criteria due to its extremely restricted distribution and small population size. It is confined to a single forest patch, with both its extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) being less than 4 km². This patch is part of a tall coastal forest ecosystem.

The only known population is located within a sacred forest that was historically protected due to its cultural and spiritual significance to the local community. However, surveys conducted in 2015 and 2016 recorded only a few individuals within this patch, suggesting that the total population consists of fewer than 250 individuals. This highlights the species’ precarious status and the urgent need for conservation measures.

The overarching objectives for the protection of Memecylon incisilobum aim to ensure its long-term survival, promote population recovery, and preserve its ecological role. These objectives will be achieved by:

• Quantifying and mapping its current distribution to better understand its status and habitat requirements.
• Protecting and restoring its natural habitat to support survival and regeneration.
• Increasing population size through both natural regeneration and ex-situ conservation measures.
• Reducing direct and indirect human pressures, including illegal harvesting, logging, and habitat encroachment.
• Engaging local communities in conservation efforts through education, awareness, and active participation in restoration and protection initiatives.

The project outcomes will provide updated distribution data, identify threats, develop propagation methods, establish ex situ conservation, engage local communities, and implement long-term monitoring to ensure the survival of Memecylon incisilobum.