VU

Espeletia uribei

Unknown

Overview

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

Espeletia uribei faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle grazing in Colombia's páramo ecosystems, where livestock trampling and soil compaction degrade the specialized high-altitude habitat this species requires. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures force páramo vegetation zones upward, potentially eliminating suitable habitat at the species' upper elevational limits. Mining activities and infrastructure development in the Cordillera Oriental further fragment the already restricted populations of this endemic frailejón.

Threat summary

Habitat

Espeletia uribei is endemic to the páramo ecosystems of Colombia's Cordillera Oriental, occurring at elevations between 3,200-4,000 meters in the high-altitude tropical alpine tundra. This specialized habitat is characterized by cool temperatures, high humidity, intense UV radiation, and unique soil conditions that support the distinctive frailejón vegetation communities.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Espeletia uribei classified as Vulnerable?
Espeletia uribei 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. Espeletia uribei faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle grazing in Colombia's páramo ecosystems, where livestock trampling and soil compaction degrade the specialized high-altitude habitat this species requires. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures force páramo vegetation zones upward, potentially eliminating suitable habitat at the species' upper elevational limits. Mining activities and infrastructure development in the Cordillera Oriental further fragment the already restricted populations of this endemic frailejón.
Where does Espeletia uribei live?
Espeletia uribei 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 Espeletia uribei?
The main threats to Espeletia uribei 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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