VU

Alternanthera galapagensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Alternanthera galapagensis faces severe pressure from invasive plant species that outcompete it for resources and alter soil chemistry in its native coastal habitats. Habitat degradation from human development and tourism infrastructure has reduced available growing areas on several islands. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and increased storm intensity, which can damage the fragile coastal ecosystems where this endemic species persists.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Galápagos species inhabits coastal areas, sandy beaches, and rocky shorelines across several islands in the archipelago. It typically grows in salt-tolerant plant communities along the littoral zone, where it has adapted to harsh conditions including salt spray, intense solar radiation, and periodic drought.

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Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Alternanthera galapagensis classified as Vulnerable?
Alternanthera galapagensis is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Alternanthera galapagensis faces severe pressure from invasive plant species that outcompete it for resources and alter soil chemistry in its native coastal habitats. Habitat degradation from human development and tourism infrastructure has reduced available growing areas on several islands. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and increased storm intensity, which can damage the fragile coastal ecosystems where this endemic species persists.
Where does Alternanthera galapagensis live?
Alternanthera galapagensis 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 Alternanthera galapagensis?
The main threats to Alternanthera galapagensis are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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