Aloe dorotheae
CR

Aloe dorotheae

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aloe_dorotheae

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Aloe dorotheae faces severe population decline due to illegal collection for the horticultural trade, driven by its striking red coloration and compact growth form that make it highly sought after by succulent collectors. Habitat degradation from overgrazing by livestock and agricultural expansion in its limited range further threatens remaining populations. The species' extremely restricted distribution in the Richtersveld region makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats and environmental changes.

Threat summary

Habitat

Aloe dorotheae inhabits rocky quartzite outcrops and steep slopes in the arid Richtersveld region of South Africa's Northern Cape Province. The species grows in extremely harsh desert conditions with minimal rainfall, typically found in crevices and on cliff faces where it receives protection from the most extreme temperatures.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Aloe dorotheae classified as Critically Endangered?
Aloe dorotheae is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Aloe dorotheae faces severe population decline due to illegal collection for the horticultural trade, driven by its striking red coloration and compact growth form that make it highly sought after by succulent collectors. Habitat degradation from overgrazing by livestock and agricultural expansion in its limited range further threatens remaining populations. The species' extremely restricted distribution in the Richtersveld region makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats and environmental changes.
Where does Aloe dorotheae live?
Aloe dorotheae occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Aloe dorotheae?
The main threats to Aloe dorotheae are 2.1, 5.4, ai-1, and ai-2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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