Mezilaurus microphylla
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Mezilaurus microphylla faces severe threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its restricted range in the Atlantic Forest of Brazil. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to local extinctions from agricultural expansion and urban development. Mining activities and infrastructure development further compound habitat loss pressures on the remaining forest fragments where this rare tree persists.
Habitat
This species is endemic to the Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica) of southeastern Brazil, occurring in humid montane forests at elevations between 800-1,200 meters. It grows in well-preserved primary forest remnants with high canopy cover and rich, organic soils typical of the region's biodiversity hotspot.