VU

Gasteranthus imbaburensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Gasteranthus imbaburensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in Ecuador's Imbabura Province, which has fragmented its cloud forest habitat. Deforestation for crop cultivation and pastureland continues to reduce the species' already limited range. The plant's specialized epiphytic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to microclimate changes caused by forest fragmentation and edge effects.

Threat summary

Habitat

This epiphytic plant inhabits the humid cloud forests of Ecuador's Andean slopes, typically growing on tree trunks and branches in montane forest ecosystems. It requires the consistent moisture and stable microclimatic conditions found in undisturbed cloud forest environments at elevations between 1,500-2,500 meters.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Gasteranthus imbaburensis classified as Vulnerable?
Gasteranthus imbaburensis 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. Gasteranthus imbaburensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in Ecuador's Imbabura Province, which has fragmented its cloud forest habitat. Deforestation for crop cultivation and pastureland continues to reduce the species' already limited range. The plant's specialized epiphytic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to microclimate changes caused by forest fragmentation and edge effects.
Where does Gasteranthus imbaburensis live?
Gasteranthus imbaburensis occurs in Ecuador, and South America. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Gasteranthus imbaburensis?
The main threats to Gasteranthus imbaburensis 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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