VU

Macleania mollis

Unknown

Overview

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

Macleania mollis faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in the Andean cloud forests where it occurs. Deforestation for coffee cultivation and pasture development has fragmented its montane habitat, while climate change threatens to shift the narrow altitudinal zones where this epiphytic shrub can survive. The species' restricted range and specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to ongoing habitat conversion.

Threat summary

Habitat

Macleania mollis inhabits Andean cloud forests and montane ecosystems, typically growing as an epiphytic shrub on trees in humid, mist-covered environments. The species occurs at elevations between 1,500-3,000 meters in the tropical montane forests of South America.

Artificial - Terrestrial· major

Conservation measures underway

Ex-situ conservation

Other threatened species in ERICACEAE

VU

Cavendishia macrocephala

Unknown
EN

Cavendishia sessiliflora

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Macleania crassa

Unknown
CR

Orthaea caudata

Unknown

Threatened in Ecuador

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Puya fastuosa

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Diospyros esmereg

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VU

Copper Shark

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Baird's Tapir

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Macleania mollis classified as Vulnerable?
Macleania mollis 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. Macleania mollis faces significant pressure from agricultural expansion and cattle ranching in the Andean cloud forests where it occurs. Deforestation for coffee cultivation and pasture development has fragmented its montane habitat, while climate change threatens to shift the narrow altitudinal zones where this epiphytic shrub can survive. The species' restricted range and specialized habitat requirements make it particularly vulnerable to ongoing habitat conversion.
Where does Macleania mollis live?
Macleania mollis occurs in Ecuador. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Macleania mollis?
The main threats to Macleania mollis 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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