EN

Ocotea itatiaiae

Declining

Overview

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

Ocotea itatiaiae faces severe pressure from habitat fragmentation and deforestation within Brazil's Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened biodiversity hotspots. The species' restricted range in montane cloud forests makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, including altered precipitation patterns and temperature shifts that affect the delicate moisture balance these ecosystems require. Agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce and isolate remaining forest patches, limiting gene flow between populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

Ocotea itatiaiae is endemic to montane cloud forests in Brazil's Atlantic Forest biome, typically occurring at elevations between 1,500-2,400 meters. These high-altitude forests are characterized by persistent cloud cover, high humidity, and cooler temperatures that support specialized plant communities adapted to these unique microclimatic conditions.

Other threatened species in LAURACEAE

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Cryptocarya subtrinervis

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EN

Steyermark Pleurothyrium

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Ocotea itatiaiae classified as Endangered?
Ocotea itatiaiae 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. Ocotea itatiaiae faces severe pressure from habitat fragmentation and deforestation within Brazil's Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened biodiversity hotspots. The species' restricted range in montane cloud forests makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, including altered precipitation patterns and temperature shifts that affect the delicate moisture balance these ecosystems require. Agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce and isolate remaining forest patches, limiting gene flow between populations.
Where does Ocotea itatiaiae live?
Ocotea itatiaiae 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 Ocotea itatiaiae?
The main threats to Ocotea itatiaiae 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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