CR

Hyptis argutifolia

Unknown

Overview

Mesosphaerum argutifolium is a species of flowering plant in the family Lamiaceae, formerly known as Hyptis argutifolia. It is found only in Ecuador. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.

Hyptis argutifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated. Invasive plant species compete directly with this native herb, further reducing available habitat and resources.

Threat summary

Habitat

Hyptis argutifolia typically inhabits dry tropical forests, woodland edges, and disturbed areas with well-drained soils. The species shows preference for partially shaded environments and areas with moderate disturbance regimes.

Other threatened species in LAMIACEAE

VU

Hyptidendron claussenii

Declining
EN

Isodon atroruber

Unknown
EN

Vitex bracteata

Increasing
EN

Vitex grandidiana

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Hyptis argutifolia classified as Critically Endangered?
Hyptis argutifolia is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Hyptis argutifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated. Invasive plant species compete directly with this native herb, further reducing available habitat and resources.
Where does Hyptis argutifolia live?
Hyptis argutifolia 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 Hyptis argutifolia?
The main threats to Hyptis argutifolia 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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