CR

Ocotea baracoensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Ocotea baracoensis faces severe threats from deforestation and habitat conversion in its extremely limited range around Baracoa, Cuba. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its restricted distribution in montane forests that are under pressure from agricultural expansion and infrastructure development. Mining activities and selective logging for valuable timber further fragment the remaining forest patches where this endemic tree survives.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Cuban tree inhabits montane forests in the Baracoa region of eastern Cuba, typically growing in humid tropical forests at moderate elevations. The species is restricted to a very small geographic area within the unique ecosystems of the Nipe-Sagua-Baracoa mountains.

Conservation measures underway

Ex-situ conservation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Ocotea baracoensis classified as Critically Endangered?
Ocotea baracoensis 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. Ocotea baracoensis faces severe threats from deforestation and habitat conversion in its extremely limited range around Baracoa, Cuba. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its restricted distribution in montane forests that are under pressure from agricultural expansion and infrastructure development. Mining activities and selective logging for valuable timber further fragment the remaining forest patches where this endemic tree survives.
Where does Ocotea baracoensis live?
Ocotea baracoensis occurs in Cuba. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Ocotea baracoensis?
The main threats to Ocotea baracoensis 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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