A qualitative method for the determination of the conservation status of bulnesia sarmientoi (zygophyllaceae) in Paraguay for exportation purposes

Abstract

A qualitative analysis of the reasons why the species Bulnesia sarmientoi is included in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has been performed using the methodology proposed by the IUCN. This analysis was supplemented with information related to derivative products commercialization and data concerning growth, phenology, ecology and deforestation in the area occupied by the species. Analyses showed several information gaps, especially quantitative data, to establish the species conservation status. Results indicate that Bulnesia sarmientoi populations are under severe threat such as accelerated habitat loss and unsustainable timber harvesting and derivate products. The study concludes that quantitative population studies should be conducted to determine export quotas, without which it will not be possible to ensure the continuity of the populations of this species.