Melicope orbicularis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Melicope orbicularis faces severe habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion across its limited range in the Hawaiian Islands. The species is particularly vulnerable to invasive plant species that alter native forest composition and compete for resources. Small population size and restricted distribution make it highly susceptible to stochastic events and genetic bottlenecks.
Habitat
This endemic Hawaiian tree species inhabits native montane wet forests and mesic forests, typically found at elevations between 300-1,200 meters. It grows in areas with high rainfall and rich volcanic soils, often associated with other native Hawaiian forest species in relatively undisturbed forest remnants.