EN

Melicope cinerea

Unknown

Overview

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

Melicope cinerea faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its native Hawaiian range. The species is particularly vulnerable to invasive plant species that alter forest composition and compete for resources. Feral ungulates, especially pigs and goats, cause significant damage to understory vegetation where this endemic tree establishes, while introduced herbivores prevent natural regeneration of seedlings.

Threat summary

Habitat

Melicope cinerea inhabits native Hawaiian dry to mesic forests, typically found on volcanic slopes and ridges at elevations between 300-1,200 meters. The species grows in mixed native forest communities alongside other endemic Hawaiian plants, preferring well-drained soils in areas with moderate rainfall.

Forest - Subtropical/tropical moist lowland· major

Other threatened species in RUTACEAE

CR

Melicope quadrangularis

Declining
VU

Melicope wawraeana

Declining
VU

Vepris drummondii

Declining
VU

Zanthoxylum mildbraedii

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Melicope cinerea classified as Endangered?
Melicope cinerea 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. Melicope cinerea faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its native Hawaiian range. The species is particularly vulnerable to invasive plant species that alter forest composition and compete for resources. Feral ungulates, especially pigs and goats, cause significant damage to understory vegetation where this endemic tree establishes, while introduced herbivores prevent natural regeneration of seedlings.
Where does Melicope cinerea live?
Melicope cinerea 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 Melicope cinerea?
The main threats to Melicope cinerea 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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