Scleria longispiculata

Habitat loss through agricultural practices has been observed within the Central Province, Zambia region this species occurs. Stocking (1983) characterised the main agricultural staple in the district being maize, sweet potato and cotton. The growth of these crops required increased fertiliser use and extensive plowing, reducing the soil quality of the area (Kabwe and Donovan 2003). There has also been an observed increase of pesticides required for cotton farming, further reducing soil quality (Stocking 1983). These excessive agricultural techniques has led to an increase occurrence of droughts in the central province, which can have a further threats on S. longipiculata, however the effects of increased drought on S. longispiculata has not been observed (Mhambi-Musimwa 2007). Although the agricultural spread is not as extensive, there has also been a documented increase of agriculture in the Songea district, Tanzania, which could possibly effect the habitat of locations observed within this district (Ponte 1998).

Due to the increase in agriculture, the area, extent and quality of the habitat required for the species may be declining (Mhambi-Musimwa 2007). Therefore, further surveys must be carried out to identify the potential spread of agriculture in other identified locations (Mhambi-Musimwa 2007). The location found within the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kundelungu National Park) and one location within Namibia (Khaudum National Park) are found within the boundaries of national parks, providing some protection to these populations (Wanke 2007, Protected Planet 2020).