Balanocarpus kitulgallensis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Balanocarpus kitulgallensis faces severe population decline primarily due to extensive logging and deforestation throughout its native range in Sri Lanka's wet zone forests. The species is particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation as it requires large, intact forest areas for successful reproduction and regeneration. Commercial timber extraction has targeted this valuable hardwood species directly, while agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce remaining forest patches to isolated fragments.
Habitat
This endemic Sri Lankan tree species inhabits lowland wet zone rainforests, typically occurring in primary and mature secondary forests at elevations below 1000 meters. It requires well-drained soils and high humidity conditions characteristic of the island's southwestern wet zone ecosystems.
