VU

Cercidospora epipolytropa

Unknown

Overview

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

Cercidospora epipolytropa faces significant threats from air pollution and acid rain, which alter the chemistry of its host lichens and bark substrates. Climate change poses additional risks through shifting precipitation patterns and temperature regimes that affect both the fungus and its obligate lichen hosts. Habitat fragmentation from deforestation and urban development reduces the availability of suitable old-growth forest environments where this specialized parasitic fungus can establish and persist.

Threat summary

Habitat

This parasitic fungus inhabits old-growth and mature forests where it grows exclusively on specific lichen species, particularly those in the genus Lepraria. It requires stable, humid forest environments with minimal air pollution and established lichen communities on tree bark and rock surfaces.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Frequently asked questions

Why is Cercidospora epipolytropa classified as Vulnerable?
Cercidospora epipolytropa 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. Cercidospora epipolytropa faces significant threats from air pollution and acid rain, which alter the chemistry of its host lichens and bark substrates. Climate change poses additional risks through shifting precipitation patterns and temperature regimes that affect both the fungus and its obligate lichen hosts. Habitat fragmentation from deforestation and urban development reduces the availability of suitable old-growth forest environments where this specialized parasitic fungus can establish and persist.
Where does Cercidospora epipolytropa live?
Cercidospora epipolytropa 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 Cercidospora epipolytropa?
The main threats to Cercidospora epipolytropa 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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