VU

Gynoxys compressissima

Declining

Overview

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

Gynoxys compressissima faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in Ecuador's high-altitude regions, which directly destroys its specialized páramo habitat. Climate change poses an additional threat by shifting temperature and precipitation patterns in these sensitive montane ecosystems, potentially forcing the species to migrate to higher elevations where suitable habitat becomes increasingly limited. Mining activities and infrastructure development further fragment the remaining populations of this endemic shrub.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Ecuadorian shrub inhabits high-altitude páramo ecosystems between 3,200-4,200 meters elevation in the Andes. It grows in specialized montane grasslands and shrublands characterized by cool temperatures, high humidity, and volcanic soils.

TERRESTRIAL· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Gynoxys compressissima classified as Vulnerable?
Gynoxys compressissima 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. Gynoxys compressissima faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in Ecuador's high-altitude regions, which directly destroys its specialized páramo habitat. Climate change poses an additional threat by shifting temperature and precipitation patterns in these sensitive montane ecosystems, potentially forcing the species to migrate to higher elevations where suitable habitat becomes increasingly limited. Mining activities and infrastructure development further fragment the remaining populations of this endemic shrub.
Where does Gynoxys compressissima live?
Gynoxys compressissima occurs in Bolivia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Gynoxys compressissima?
The main threats to Gynoxys compressissima 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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