VU

Aristolochia thwaitesii

Unknown

Overview

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

Aristolochia thwaitesii faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as Sri Lanka's montane forests are cleared for agriculture and development. The species' restricted range in the island's central highlands makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, while collection for traditional medicine and ornamental purposes has further reduced wild populations. Climate change poses an additional threat as shifting temperature and rainfall patterns alter the delicate montane ecosystem conditions this endemic vine requires.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Sri Lankan vine inhabits montane forests and forest edges in the central highlands, typically growing at elevations between 1,000-2,000 meters. It thrives in the cool, humid conditions of cloud forests and secondary forest margins where it climbs on trees and shrubs.

Other threatened species in ARISTOLOCHIACEAE

Asarum guskCR

Asarum gusk

Declining
VU

Asarum simile

Unknown
CR

Pararistolochia preussii

Unknown
CR

Asarum tabatanum

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Aristolochia thwaitesii classified as Vulnerable?
Aristolochia thwaitesii 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. Aristolochia thwaitesii faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as Sri Lanka's montane forests are cleared for agriculture and development. The species' restricted range in the island's central highlands makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, while collection for traditional medicine and ornamental purposes has further reduced wild populations. Climate change poses an additional threat as shifting temperature and rainfall patterns alter the delicate montane ecosystem conditions this endemic vine requires.
Where does Aristolochia thwaitesii live?
Aristolochia thwaitesii 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 Aristolochia thwaitesii?
The main threats to Aristolochia thwaitesii 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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