EN

Lyonothamnus floribundus

Unknown

Overview

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

Lyonothamnus floribundus faces severe threats from its extremely limited distribution on just four California Channel Islands, making it vulnerable to catastrophic events. Invasive plant species, particularly non-native grasses and shrubs, compete aggressively with seedlings and alter soil chemistry. Climate change poses increasing risks through altered precipitation patterns and rising temperatures that stress this cool, moist-adapted species. Human activities including recreational trampling and past grazing have degraded critical habitat areas.

Threat summary

Habitat

Catalina ironwood inhabits cool, moist canyon bottoms and north-facing slopes in chaparral and oak woodland communities on the California Channel Islands. It requires well-drained soils and benefits from the maritime influence that provides consistent moisture through fog and ocean breezes.

Forest· majorShrubland· majorRocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protectionEx-situ conservation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Lyonothamnus floribundus classified as Endangered?
Lyonothamnus floribundus is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Lyonothamnus floribundus faces severe threats from its extremely limited distribution on just four California Channel Islands, making it vulnerable to catastrophic events. Invasive plant species, particularly non-native grasses and shrubs, compete aggressively with seedlings and alter soil chemistry. Climate change poses increasing risks through altered precipitation patterns and rising temperatures that stress this cool, moist-adapted species. Human activities including recreational trampling and past grazing have degraded critical habitat areas.
Where does Lyonothamnus floribundus live?
Lyonothamnus floribundus occurs in United States. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Lyonothamnus floribundus?
The main threats to Lyonothamnus floribundus 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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