Cola gigas
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Cola gigas faces severe pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion across its West African range, particularly in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire where cocoa farming has fragmented its forest habitat. Logging operations targeting valuable timber species have further reduced the intact forest areas this tree requires for reproduction and survival. The species' limited distribution and slow growth rate make populations particularly vulnerable to habitat conversion.
Habitat
Cola gigas inhabits lowland tropical rainforests of West Africa, typically found in primary and mature secondary forest environments. The species requires well-drained soils and occurs in areas with high rainfall and consistent humidity levels characteristic of the Guinea-Congolian forest region.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in MALVACEAE
Threatened in Nigeria
Frequently asked questions
Why is Cola gigas classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Cola gigas live?
What are the main threats to Cola gigas?
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