Aiphanes acaulis
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aiphanes_acaulis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Aiphanes acaulis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in Colombia's Andean foothills, where its cloud forest habitat is being rapidly converted. The species' extremely limited range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized deforestation, while its slow growth rate and specific microclimate requirements prevent rapid recovery. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the moisture and temperature conditions essential for this cloud forest palm's survival.
Habitat
This endemic Colombian palm inhabits cloud forests in the Andean foothills, typically growing in the understory of humid montane forests between 1,200-2,000 meters elevation. It requires the consistent moisture and filtered light conditions characteristic of these misty, high-altitude tropical forests.
Other threatened species in Arecaceae
Threatened in Colombia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Aiphanes acaulis classified as Endangered?
Where does Aiphanes acaulis live?
What are the main threats to Aiphanes acaulis?
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