CR

Myrocarpus leprosus

Declining

Overview

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

Myrocarpus leprosus faces severe population decline primarily due to extensive logging for its valuable timber, which is highly prized for construction and furniture making. The species has experienced dramatic habitat loss throughout its range in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, with remaining populations fragmented into small, isolated patches. Illegal harvesting continues to pressure the few surviving mature trees, while agricultural expansion and urban development further reduce available habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

Myrocarpus leprosus is endemic to the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica) of southeastern Brazil, occurring in both primary and secondary forest formations. The species typically grows in well-drained soils of montane and submontane forests, often found on slopes and ridges at elevations between 200-1,200 meters.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Myrocarpus leprosus classified as Critically Endangered?
Myrocarpus leprosus 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. Myrocarpus leprosus faces severe population decline primarily due to extensive logging for its valuable timber, which is highly prized for construction and furniture making. The species has experienced dramatic habitat loss throughout its range in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil, with remaining populations fragmented into small, isolated patches. Illegal harvesting continues to pressure the few surviving mature trees, while agricultural expansion and urban development further reduce available habitat.
Where does Myrocarpus leprosus live?
Myrocarpus leprosus 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 Myrocarpus leprosus?
The main threats to Myrocarpus leprosus 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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