Helicia retusa
Overview
Helicia retusa is a species of plant in the family Proteaceae. It is endemic to Papua New Guinea.
Helicia retusa faces severe population decline primarily due to extensive deforestation and habitat conversion throughout its native range in Southeast Asian tropical forests. The species is particularly vulnerable to logging operations and agricultural expansion, as it requires intact forest canopy structure for survival. Mining activities and infrastructure development have further fragmented remaining populations, while climate change threatens to alter the specific temperature and moisture conditions this species depends upon.
Habitat
Helicia retusa inhabits primary and secondary tropical rainforests, typically found in the understory and mid-canopy layers of lowland and hill forests up to 1,200 meters elevation. The species requires well-drained soils and high humidity conditions characteristic of Southeast Asian dipterocarp forests.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PROTEACEAE
Threatened in Papua New Guinea
Frequently asked questions
Why is Helicia retusa classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Helicia retusa live?
What are the main threats to Helicia retusa?
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