Encephalartos equatorialis
CR

Encephalartos equatorialis

Declining

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encephalartos_equatorialis

Overview

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

Encephalartos equatorialis faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, where mature specimens command extremely high prices among cycad collectors. The species' extremely limited population size and restricted range in Uganda's montane forests make it particularly vulnerable to over-harvesting. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and charcoal production in the Rwenzori Mountains region further threatens the remaining wild populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This cycad species inhabits montane forest edges and grassland transitions in the Rwenzori Mountains of western Uganda, typically occurring at elevations between 1,200-2,000 meters. It grows in well-drained soils on rocky slopes and forest clearings where it receives partial sunlight.

Forest· majorForest - Subtropical/tropical moist lowland· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionLegislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Encephalartos equatorialis classified as Critically Endangered?
Encephalartos equatorialis is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Encephalartos equatorialis faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the horticultural trade, where mature specimens command extremely high prices among cycad collectors. The species' extremely limited population size and restricted range in Uganda's montane forests make it particularly vulnerable to over-harvesting. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and charcoal production in the Rwenzori Mountains region further threatens the remaining wild populations.
Where does Encephalartos equatorialis live?
Encephalartos equatorialis occurs in Uganda. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Encephalartos equatorialis?
The main threats to Encephalartos equatorialis are 2.1, 2.2, 7.1, and ai-1. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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