VU

Espeletia arbelaezii

Declining

Overview

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

Espeletia arbelaezii faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle grazing in Colombia's páramo ecosystems. Mining activities and infrastructure development further fragment its high-altitude habitat, while climate change forces suitable conditions to shift upward beyond the species' elevational range. The slow growth rate characteristic of Espeletia species makes population recovery particularly challenging once disturbance occurs.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits high-altitude páramo ecosystems in the Colombian Andes, typically occurring between 3,000-4,200 meters elevation. It grows in open grasslands and shrublands characterized by cool temperatures, high humidity, and frequent fog cover.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Espeletia arbelaezii classified as Vulnerable?
Espeletia arbelaezii 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 arbelaezii faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle grazing in Colombia's páramo ecosystems. Mining activities and infrastructure development further fragment its high-altitude habitat, while climate change forces suitable conditions to shift upward beyond the species' elevational range. The slow growth rate characteristic of Espeletia species makes population recovery particularly challenging once disturbance occurs.
Where does Espeletia arbelaezii live?
Espeletia arbelaezii occurs in Colombia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Espeletia arbelaezii?
The main threats to Espeletia arbelaezii 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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