VU

Cucurbita ecuadorensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Cucurbita ecuadorensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion throughout its native range in Ecuador's coastal and Andean regions. The species is particularly vulnerable to genetic erosion through hybridization with cultivated squash varieties, which threatens the integrity of wild populations. Deforestation for cattle ranching and urban development has fragmented remaining populations, while climate change is altering precipitation patterns critical for this drought-sensitive species.

Threat summary

Habitat

This wild squash species inhabits dry forests, scrublands, and forest edges in Ecuador's coastal lowlands and Andean foothills, typically at elevations between 200-1,500 meters. It thrives in well-drained soils along forest margins and disturbed areas with partial shade to full sun exposure.

Other threatened species in CUCURBITACEAE

CR

Sicyos lanceoloideus

Declining
EN

Trichosanthes reineckeana

Unknown
CR

Momordica obtusisepala

Unknown
EN

Telfairia batesii

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Cucurbita ecuadorensis classified as Vulnerable?
Cucurbita ecuadorensis 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. Cucurbita ecuadorensis faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion throughout its native range in Ecuador's coastal and Andean regions. The species is particularly vulnerable to genetic erosion through hybridization with cultivated squash varieties, which threatens the integrity of wild populations. Deforestation for cattle ranching and urban development has fragmented remaining populations, while climate change is altering precipitation patterns critical for this drought-sensitive species.
Where does Cucurbita ecuadorensis live?
Cucurbita ecuadorensis 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 Cucurbita ecuadorensis?
The main threats to Cucurbita ecuadorensis 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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