CR

Buxus moana

Unknown

Overview

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

Buxus moana faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Puerto Rico. The species is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and extreme weather events, which can devastate the small remaining populations. Invasive plant species compete for resources and alter the native forest structure where this boxwood naturally occurs.

Threat summary

Habitat

Buxus moana inhabits moist limestone forests and coastal woodlands in Puerto Rico, typically growing in shaded understory areas with well-drained calcareous soils. The species is adapted to the humid tropical conditions of the Caribbean, requiring consistent moisture and protection from direct sunlight.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Buxus moana classified as Critically Endangered?
Buxus moana is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Buxus moana faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in Puerto Rico. The species is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and extreme weather events, which can devastate the small remaining populations. Invasive plant species compete for resources and alter the native forest structure where this boxwood naturally occurs.
Where does Buxus moana live?
Buxus moana 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 Buxus moana?
The main threats to Buxus moana 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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