Threats to survival

• Invasive alien plants are the biggest threat to fynbos and its species diversity
• Fires are essential for the survival of fynbos, as many seeds only germinate after exposure to smoke or fire, while others only flower after a fire
• Fire caused by human error at the wrong time or too frequently can wipe out fynbos species
• Natural fynbos areas are taken over by urbanisation or by clearing for agricultural purposes