VU

Meriania amplexicaulis

Unknown

Overview

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

Meriania amplexicaulis faces severe pressure from ongoing deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its limited Andean range. The species' restricted distribution in cloud forest ecosystems makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as these specialized environments are increasingly converted for cattle ranching and crop cultivation. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the moisture regimes essential for cloud forest persistence, potentially forcing this endemic shrub into ever-shrinking suitable habitat zones.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic shrub inhabits montane cloud forests of the northern Andes, typically occurring at elevations between 1,800-3,000 meters where persistent fog and high humidity create ideal growing conditions. The species is adapted to the cool, moist microclimate of these specialized ecosystems, often growing in forest understory and edge habitats.

Other threatened species in MELASTOMATACEAE

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Brachyotum angustifolium

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VU

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VU

Blakea calycularis

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Meriania amplexicaulis classified as Vulnerable?
Meriania amplexicaulis 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. Meriania amplexicaulis faces severe pressure from ongoing deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its limited Andean range. The species' restricted distribution in cloud forest ecosystems makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as these specialized environments are increasingly converted for cattle ranching and crop cultivation. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the moisture regimes essential for cloud forest persistence, potentially forcing this endemic shrub into ever-shrinking suitable habitat zones.
Where does Meriania amplexicaulis live?
Meriania amplexicaulis 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 Meriania amplexicaulis?
The main threats to Meriania amplexicaulis 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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