Cactus and Succulent Conservation: Challenges of Poaching and Trafficking

According to the most recent IUCN Red List assessment, three plant groups – cycads (1^st), conifers (3^rd), and cactus (5^th) have the unfortunate distinction of being included in the top seven most threatened taxonomic groups in the world. One major threat affecting cycads and cacti is the illegal collection and trade of these plants. This practice also affects other groups such as orchids and succulents including lithops, euphorbia, aloes and members of the Crassulaceae. During this session, we will be discussing the current state of the illegal plant trade, how it affects rare plant conservation efforts, and what we, as plant conservationists, can do to combat this threat. We encourage those who work with these or other groups affected by illegal trade to attend this session to share their experience, opinions, and discuss possible solutions.