VU

Dypsis serpentina

Stable

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Dypsis serpentina faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and slash-and-burn farming practices that destroy its native rainforest habitat in Madagascar. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its limited distribution range and slow growth rate, making population recovery difficult once stands are cleared. Illegal collection for the international palm trade has also contributed to population declines, as mature specimens are highly valued by collectors.

Threat summary

Habitat

This palm species is endemic to the humid lowland rainforests of eastern Madagascar, typically growing in understory conditions with high humidity and filtered sunlight. It occurs at elevations between 200-800 meters in areas with consistent rainfall and rich, well-draining soils.

Forest· major

Conservation measures underway

Species recovery

Other threatened species in ARECACEAE

CR

Pelagodoxa mesocarpa

Declining
VU

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Raphia australis

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Pinanga batanensisCR

Pinanga batanensis

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CR

Pinanga glaucifolia

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Dypsis serpentina classified as Vulnerable?
Dypsis serpentina is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Dypsis serpentina faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and slash-and-burn farming practices that destroy its native rainforest habitat in Madagascar. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its limited distribution range and slow growth rate, making population recovery difficult once stands are cleared. Illegal collection for the international palm trade has also contributed to population declines, as mature specimens are highly valued by collectors.
Where does Dypsis serpentina live?
Dypsis serpentina 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 Dypsis serpentina?
The main threats to Dypsis serpentina 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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