Nilgiri Tree Fern
Alsophila nilgirensis
Photo: Photo: (c) KRtreefern, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by KRtreefern
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Alsophila nilgirensis faces severe population decline due to extensive deforestation and habitat fragmentation across the Western Ghats. Commercial logging, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development have eliminated much of its native montane forest habitat. The species' slow growth rate and specific microclimate requirements make recovery particularly challenging, while remaining populations are increasingly isolated in small forest fragments vulnerable to edge effects and further degradation.
Habitat
This tree fern inhabits the montane evergreen forests of the Western Ghats, typically occurring at elevations between 1,200-2,000 meters in areas with high humidity and consistent moisture. It requires the specific microclimate conditions found in undisturbed forest understories, including filtered sunlight and protection from strong winds.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in CYATHEACEAE
Threatened in India
Frequently asked questions
Why is Nilgiri Tree Fern classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Nilgiri Tree Fern live?
What are the main threats to Nilgiri Tree Fern?
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