CR

clownfibbla

Hieracium ludificans

Unknown

Overview

The clownfibbla (Hieracium ludificans) is a distinctive hawkweed species characterized by its vibrant orange and yellow striped flower heads that bloom in irregular, almost whimsical patterns. This perennial herb plays a crucial role as a specialized pollinator plant for several endemic alpine butterfly species and serves as a key indicator species for high-altitude meadow ecosystem health.

Hieracium ludificans faces severe population declines due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species is particularly vulnerable to invasive plant species that outcompete it for resources, while climate change is altering the specific montane conditions it requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

Montane grasslands, alpine meadows, and rocky slopes between 1,200-2,800m elevation, typically in areas with well-drained soils and moderate moisture. The species shows preference for disturbed ground along mountain trails and forest edges where competition from woody vegetation is reduced.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Other threatened species in Asteraceae

CR

armfibbla

Hieracium manocolum

Unknown
CR

Salmea umbratilis

Unknown
CR

spenatfibbla

Hieracium daniciforme

Unknown
CR

Mikania tristachya

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is clownfibbla classified as Critically Endangered?
clownfibbla 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. Hieracium ludificans faces severe population declines due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species is particularly vulnerable to invasive plant species that outcompete it for resources, while climate change is altering the specific montane conditions it requires for survival.
Where does clownfibbla live?
clownfibbla 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 clownfibbla?
The main threats to clownfibbla 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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