Drypetes travancorica
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Drypetes travancorica faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited range in the Western Ghats of India. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its restricted distribution and dependence on intact forest ecosystems. Agricultural expansion, urbanization, and infrastructure development continue to reduce and isolate remaining populations, while selective logging targets mature trees that provide critical habitat structure.
Habitat
This endemic tree species inhabits the evergreen and semi-evergreen forests of the Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, India. It typically occurs in montane forest ecosystems at elevations between 900-1800 meters, preferring areas with high humidity and consistent rainfall patterns.