CR

canelinha

Nectandra debilis

Unknown

Overview

Nectandra debilis, commonly known as canelinha, is a medium-sized tree species belonging to the laurel family (Lauraceae) endemic to Brazil's Atlantic Forest. This evergreen tree typically reaches 8-15 meters in height and produces small, inconspicuous flowers followed by dark berries that serve as an important food source for forest birds and mammals. As a member of the diverse Nectandra genus, canelinha plays a crucial role in forest succession and seed dispersal networks within its native ecosystem.

Nectandra debilis (canelinha) is critically endangered primarily due to severe habitat loss and fragmentation of Atlantic Forest ecosystems in Brazil. The species' extremely limited range and small population size make it highly vulnerable to ongoing deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development pressures.

Threat summary

Habitat

Canelinha occurs in the understory and canopy of primary and secondary Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica) remnants, typically in humid montane forests at elevations between 400-1,200 meters. The species shows preference for well-drained soils on slopes and ridges within the coastal mountain ranges of southeastern Brazil.

Other threatened species in Lauraceae

CR

Beilschmiedia vermoeseni

Unknown
VU

Wright's laurel canelon

Ocotea wrightii

Unknown
rosewoodtreeCR

rosewoodtree

Aniba rosaeodora

Unknown
CR

Longotra

Aspidostemon inconspicuum

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is canelinha classified as Critically Endangered?
canelinha 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. Nectandra debilis (canelinha) is critically endangered primarily due to severe habitat loss and fragmentation of Atlantic Forest ecosystems in Brazil. The species' extremely limited range and small population size make it highly vulnerable to ongoing deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development pressures.
Where does canelinha live?
canelinha 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 canelinha?
The main threats to canelinha 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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