CONSERVATION - VARIOUS NATIONAL ACTS PROTECT SOUTH AFRICA FERNS DIRECTLY AND INDIRECTLY. ALL INDIGENOUS SPECIES OF TREE FERNS ARE CONSIDERED PROTECTED PLANTS. THE CYATHEA SPECIES ARE SPECIALLY PROTECTED BY SOUTH AFRICAN LAW AND BY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTIONS. THESE LAWS DISCOURAGE ANY FORM OF HABITAT DESTRUCTION OR ACTIVITIES THAT DISTURB FERNS IN THEIR NATURAL HABITAT.