Egg-Leaf Amazonvine
Stigmaphyllon bannisterioides
Photo: Photo: (c) Robin Heymans, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Robin Heymans
Overview
The Egg-Leaf Amazonvine is a distinctive climbing vine in the Malpighiaceae family, characterized by its oval, egg-shaped leaves and small yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. This neotropical liana plays an important ecological role as a pollinator resource for various insects and provides structural habitat complexity in forest canopies. The vine's twining growth habit allows it to reach the forest canopy where it contributes to the intricate web of epiphytic and climbing plant communities.
The Egg-Leaf Amazonvine faces severe threats primarily from habitat destruction and fragmentation due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development in its limited range. As a critically endangered species with a highly restricted distribution, any loss of its specialized habitat significantly impacts the remaining populations.
Habitat
This species inhabits humid lowland and montane rainforests of the Amazon basin, typically growing along forest edges, riverbanks, and in secondary growth areas with high canopy cover. It requires well-drained soils with consistent moisture and thrives in the dappled light conditions found beneath the forest canopy.
Other threatened species in Malpighiaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Egg-Leaf Amazonvine classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Egg-Leaf Amazonvine live?
What are the main threats to Egg-Leaf Amazonvine?
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