VU

Cephalocroton socotranus

Unknown

Overview

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

Cephalocroton socotranus faces severe pressure from habitat degradation on Socotra Island, where overgrazing by introduced goats and cattle has dramatically altered the native vegetation communities. The species' limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to infrastructure development and tourism expansion across its restricted range. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the delicate moisture balance required by this endemic shrub.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic shrub inhabits the unique semi-arid landscapes of Socotra Island, typically found in rocky areas and coastal plains where it forms part of the island's distinctive succulent scrubland communities. It occurs at low to moderate elevations, often growing among limestone outcrops and in areas with well-drained soils.

Forest· majorShrubland· major

Other threatened species in EUPHORBIACEAE

CR

Paracroton sterrhopodus

Unknown
EN

Bernardia mollis

Declining
EN

Bernardia oblanceolata

Declining
VU

Mallotus macularis

Stable

Frequently asked questions

Why is Cephalocroton socotranus classified as Vulnerable?
Cephalocroton socotranus 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. Cephalocroton socotranus faces severe pressure from habitat degradation on Socotra Island, where overgrazing by introduced goats and cattle has dramatically altered the native vegetation communities. The species' limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to infrastructure development and tourism expansion across its restricted range. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the delicate moisture balance required by this endemic shrub.
Where does Cephalocroton socotranus live?
Cephalocroton socotranus 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 Cephalocroton socotranus?
The main threats to Cephalocroton socotranus 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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