Are Traditionally Used Resources within Conservation Areas a Function of Their Sizes?

Thokozani Simelane

doi:10.4236/nr.2011.22018

Abstract

A perception that there is a proportional relationship between the size of a conservation area and the occurrence or abundance of resources available was tested in this paper. This was done by evaluating the occurrence (from records of plant and animal species) of traditionally used biological resources from four national parks of South Africa that have different sizes. Results obtained show that contrary to a general belief that bigger conservation areas might have higher proportions and possibly abundance of traditionally used resources, this is not true. In addition, results reflected that the occurrence of traditionally used biological resources within the conservation areas is not a function (in terms of the size) of their sizes. Drawing this relationship has put forth a question of whether there is a direct relationship between the biodiversity of conservation estates and the resources available. While this study did not attempt to provide an absolute answer to this question, it has laid a foundation to tackle it further. Providing answers to questions like these will not only increase the ecological value of conservation areas among traditional societies but will also help to align con-servation estates with TRIPS (trade related aspects of intellectual property) and other international instruments like CBD (Convention on biodiversity). All which call for inclusive approach to the management of natural resources and biodiversity.

Highlights

A perception that there is a proportional relationship between the size of a conservation area and the occurrence or abundance of resources available was tested in this paper
Drawing this relationship has put forth a question of whether there is a direct relationship between the biodiversity of conservation estates and the resources available
In addition to their primary functions of conserving biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, conservation areas are known to promote the protection of different species of plants and animals that are used as traditional resources

Summary

Introduction

In addition to their primary functions of conserving biodiversity and fragile ecosystems, conservation areas are known to promote the protection of different species of plants and animals that are used as traditional resources (e.g. traditional medicines). These are referred to as traditionally use biological resources [1,2,3]. To date more than 3000 plant species are known to be used as traditional medicines. 20 000 tons of these plants species are harvested annually for trading as traditional medicines [5,6]. Trading with these plants provides income for some communities [5,7] and it is estimated that not less than $ 90 million is generated annually [7,8,9,10,11]

Methods

Results

Conclusion