Lychnophora rupestris
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Lychnophora rupestris faces severe pressure from mining activities and quarrying operations that directly destroy its rocky outcrop habitat in the Espinhaço Range. Urban expansion and agricultural conversion of surrounding areas fragment remaining populations, while unregulated collection for ornamental and medicinal purposes further reduces wild numbers. Climate change poses an additional long-term threat by altering the specific microclimate conditions this endemic species requires on exposed rock faces.
Habitat
This endemic Brazilian species inhabits rocky outcrops, quartzite formations, and exposed granite surfaces in the Espinhaço Range of Minas Gerais. It grows specifically on well-drained, nutrient-poor soils in crevices and ledges of high-altitude rock faces, typically between 900-1,400 meters elevation.