EN

Melicope sandwicensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Melicope sandwicensis faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from urban development and agricultural expansion across its native Hawaiian range. Invasive plant species, particularly aggressive non-native shrubs and grasses, outcompete this endemic tree for resources and alter forest composition. Feral ungulates including pigs and goats damage root systems and create soil erosion that prevents natural regeneration.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Hawaiian tree inhabits mesic and wet forests on volcanic slopes, typically at elevations between 300-1,200 meters. It grows in native mixed forests alongside other endemic species, preferring well-drained volcanic soils with consistent moisture from trade wind precipitation.

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 sandwicensis classified as Endangered?
Melicope sandwicensis 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 sandwicensis faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from urban development and agricultural expansion across its native Hawaiian range. Invasive plant species, particularly aggressive non-native shrubs and grasses, outcompete this endemic tree for resources and alter forest composition. Feral ungulates including pigs and goats damage root systems and create soil erosion that prevents natural regeneration.
Where does Melicope sandwicensis live?
Melicope sandwicensis 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 sandwicensis?
The main threats to Melicope sandwicensis 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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