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Encephalartos whitelockii.
The Cycad of Mpanga are prehistoric plants that leaved at the time of the Dinosaurs. (several million years back). The plants have a habitat in Mpanga gorge in Kamwenge district western Uganda (the only pace in the word where you can find this specie) and are categorized as some of the most endangered species of the world. However by the time of my visit the government of Uganda has started construction of a dam that was to destroy up to 70% of their habitat.
Mpanga Gorge, Kamwenge District
Spotted on Jan 10, 2009
Submitted on Apr 14, 2011
2 Comments
It is very sad that nearly 90% of its habitat was cleared during construction of the power dam in Mpaga Gorge the remaining 10% is under private land and the owners have been burning them to pave way for cultivation. If nothing is done, the natural habitat for this plant will be gone by the end of next year!
It is wonderful it is to see these growing wild. I'm saddened and horrified by the news that they will be almost wiped out by the dam's construction. Thanks for sharing this. Do you know if there are any plans to relocate the Encephalartos and any other threatened flora?
Very much looking forward to seeing more spottings from Uganda.