Deschampsia teretifolia
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Deschampsia teretifolia faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and livestock grazing across its limited range in the Andes. The species' specialized high-altitude grassland habitat is increasingly fragmented by cattle ranching and conversion to potato cultivation. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures force alpine species to migrate upslope, reducing available habitat area. Mining activities in some regions further degrade the páramo ecosystems where this grass persists.
Habitat
Deschampsia teretifolia inhabits high-altitude páramo grasslands and alpine meadows in the Andes, typically occurring between 3,000-4,500 meters elevation. The species grows in moist, well-drained soils of montane grasslands and bog margins, often associated with other specialized alpine flora in these harsh, cold environments.
Other threatened species in POACEAE
Frequently asked questions
Why is Deschampsia teretifolia classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Deschampsia teretifolia live?
What are the main threats to Deschampsia teretifolia?
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