CR

Majaguilla de costa

Helicteres trapezifolia

Unknown

Overview

Majaguilla de costa (Helicteres trapezifolia) is a rare shrub or small tree species belonging to the Malvaceae family, characterized by its distinctive trapezoid-shaped leaves and small, twisted seed capsules typical of the Helicteres genus. This endemic plant plays an important ecological role in coastal and lowland forest ecosystems, providing nectar for pollinators and serving as habitat for various invertebrates.

Helicteres trapezifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from coastal development and agricultural expansion along its limited range. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated.

Threat summary

Habitat

Helicteres trapezifolia inhabits coastal forests, dry scrublands, and forest edges in lowland areas, typically growing in well-drained soils near shorelines. The species is adapted to salt-tolerant conditions and is often found in transitional zones between coastal vegetation and inland dry forests.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Majaguilla de costa classified as Critically Endangered?
Majaguilla de costa 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. Helicteres trapezifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from coastal development and agricultural expansion along its limited range. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations fragmented and isolated.
Where does Majaguilla de costa live?
Majaguilla de costa 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 Majaguilla de costa?
The main threats to Majaguilla de costa 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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