Nectandra cerifolia
Overview
Nectandra cerifolia is a species of flowering plant in the family Lauraceae. It is a tree endemic to Ecuador. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Nectandra cerifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to extensive deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited range in Costa Rica's montane forests. Agricultural expansion, particularly cattle ranching and coffee cultivation, has eliminated much of its original cloud forest habitat. The species' restricted distribution makes it extremely vulnerable to localized threats, with remaining populations isolated in small forest fragments that lack genetic connectivity.
Habitat
Nectandra cerifolia is endemic to Costa Rica's montane cloud forests, typically occurring at elevations between 1,200-2,000 meters in the Cordillera de Tilarán and surrounding mountain ranges. The species requires the specific microclimate conditions of cloud forests, including persistent fog, high humidity, and stable temperatures that characterize these threatened ecosystems.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in LAURACEAE
Threatened in Ecuador
Frequently asked questions
Why is Nectandra cerifolia classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Nectandra cerifolia live?
What are the main threats to Nectandra cerifolia?
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