Rare plants in arid areas at risk of extinction due to livestock grazing.
Rare plant species in arid areas with grazing livestock do not seek refuge far from water sources to avoid grazing. Only one out of 45 rare plant species was found to be associated with lower grazing near water points. This species is rarely eaten by livestock, indicating it is not affected by grazing. Short-lived plants in drylands can withstand grazing pressure due to low herbivore densities during rainy periods. However, long-lived, tasty plants may face extinction in grazed areas if grazing limits their reproduction.