VU

Meliosma itatiaiae

Declining

Overview

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

Meliosma itatiaiae faces severe pressure from habitat fragmentation and deforestation within Brazil's Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened biodiversity hotspots. The species' restricted range in montane forests makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, as warming temperatures force suitable habitat to higher elevations with limited available area. Agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce and isolate remaining forest patches, preventing genetic exchange between populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Brazilian tree species inhabits montane Atlantic Forest ecosystems, typically found in cloud forests and humid mountain slopes at elevations between 1,000-2,000 meters. It grows in well-drained soils within the canopy and subcanopy layers of these biodiverse but highly fragmented forest remnants.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Meliosma itatiaiae classified as Vulnerable?
Meliosma itatiaiae 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. Meliosma itatiaiae faces severe pressure from habitat fragmentation and deforestation within Brazil's Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened biodiversity hotspots. The species' restricted range in montane forests makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, as warming temperatures force suitable habitat to higher elevations with limited available area. Agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce and isolate remaining forest patches, preventing genetic exchange between populations.
Where does Meliosma itatiaiae live?
Meliosma itatiaiae 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 Meliosma itatiaiae?
The main threats to Meliosma itatiaiae 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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