Alstonia rupestris
Overview
Alstonia rupestris is a species of flowering plant in the family Apocynaceae. It is a shrub native to western Guangxi in southern China and to northern Thailand. It grows up to about four metres tall. It is native to open subalpine scrub on limestone rocks from 1,900 to 2,200 metres elevation. The Thai population is threatened by frequent fires. The IUCN Red List assesses the species as Critically Endangered.
Alstonia rupestris faces severe population decline primarily due to extensive deforestation and habitat conversion for agricultural expansion across its limited range in Southeast Asia. Mining activities and infrastructure development have further fragmented the remaining forest patches where this species occurs. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with small population sizes unable to withstand continued habitat pressures.
Habitat
This species inhabits tropical limestone karst formations and rocky outcrops in lowland and hill forests. It typically grows in crevices and on cliff faces in areas with well-drained, alkaline soils derived from limestone substrates.
Other threatened species in APOCYNACEAE
Threatened in China
Frequently asked questions
Why is Alstonia rupestris classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Alstonia rupestris live?
What are the main threats to Alstonia rupestris?
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