VU

Alternanthera helleri

Unknown

Overview

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

Alternanthera helleri faces severe pressure from urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited range in the Galápagos Islands. The species is particularly vulnerable to habitat degradation from introduced grazing animals, especially goats and cattle, which trample and consume native vegetation. Competition from aggressive invasive plant species further threatens remaining populations by displacing this endemic herb from its preferred coastal and lowland habitats.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Galápagos herb inhabits coastal zones, dry lowland areas, and disturbed sites on several islands in the archipelago. It typically grows in sandy soils and rocky areas near the shore, often in association with other native coastal vegetation.

Other threatened species in AMARANTHACEAE

EN

Achyranthes mutica

Declining
EN

Seabeach Amaranth

Amaranthus pumilus

Declining
EN

Charpentiera elliptica

Declining
CR

Patellifolia webbiana

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Alternanthera helleri classified as Vulnerable?
Alternanthera helleri 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 helleri faces severe pressure from urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited range in the Galápagos Islands. The species is particularly vulnerable to habitat degradation from introduced grazing animals, especially goats and cattle, which trample and consume native vegetation. Competition from aggressive invasive plant species further threatens remaining populations by displacing this endemic herb from its preferred coastal and lowland habitats.
Where does Alternanthera helleri live?
Alternanthera helleri 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 helleri?
The main threats to Alternanthera helleri 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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