CR

Mesanthemum cupricola

Unknown

Overview

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

Mesanthemum cupricola faces severe threats from copper mining activities in its restricted range in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it highly vulnerable to habitat destruction from expanding mining operations and associated infrastructure development. Water pollution from mining runoff poses additional risks to the wetland habitats where this aquatic plant occurs.

Threat summary

Habitat

Mesanthemum cupricola is endemic to copper-rich wetlands and seasonal pools in the Katanga region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This aquatic plant species is specifically adapted to the unique geochemical conditions of copper-bearing soils and water bodies in this mining region.

Conservation measures underway

Species recovery

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Mesanthemum cupricola classified as Critically Endangered?
Mesanthemum cupricola 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. Mesanthemum cupricola faces severe threats from copper mining activities in its restricted range in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it highly vulnerable to habitat destruction from expanding mining operations and associated infrastructure development. Water pollution from mining runoff poses additional risks to the wetland habitats where this aquatic plant occurs.
Where does Mesanthemum cupricola live?
Mesanthemum cupricola occurs in Congo - Brazzaville, and Congo - Kinshasa. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Mesanthemum cupricola?
The main threats to Mesanthemum cupricola are 3.2, ai-1, ai-2, and ai-3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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