Cuban palm
Copernicia gigas
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Copernicia gigas faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching across its native range in the Venezuelan Llanos. The species is particularly vulnerable to habitat conversion as its palm-dominated savannas are increasingly cleared for livestock grazing and crop cultivation. Fire management practices associated with ranching activities further degrade remaining populations, while the slow growth rate of this large palm species limits its ability to recover from disturbance.
Habitat
This large palm species inhabits the seasonally flooded savannas and palm groves of the Venezuelan Llanos, particularly in areas with sandy soils and distinct wet-dry seasonal cycles. It typically occurs in open grasslands interspersed with palm stands, forming characteristic palm savanna ecosystems.
Other threatened species in Arecaceae
Threatened in Cuba
Frequently asked questions
Why is Cuban palm classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Cuban palm live?
What are the main threats to Cuban palm?
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