CR

Philodendron cruentospathum

Unknown

Overview

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

Philodendron cruentospathum faces severe threats from deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited range within Ecuador's cloud forests. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as even small-scale clearing can eliminate entire populations. Mining activities and infrastructure development in the Andean foothills pose additional pressures on the remaining forest patches where this endemic aroid persists.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Philodendron inhabits the understory of montane cloud forests in the Ecuadorian Andes, typically growing as an epiphyte or terrestrial herb in humid, shaded conditions between 1,500-2,500 meters elevation. The species requires the consistent moisture and stable temperatures characteristic of these fog-shrouded forests.

Forest· majorMarine coastal/supratidal· major

Other threatened species in ARACEAE

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Arum apulum

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CR

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Cryptocoryne loeiensis

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Philodendron cruentospathum classified as Critically Endangered?
Philodendron cruentospathum 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. Philodendron cruentospathum faces severe threats from deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited range within Ecuador's cloud forests. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as even small-scale clearing can eliminate entire populations. Mining activities and infrastructure development in the Andean foothills pose additional pressures on the remaining forest patches where this endemic aroid persists.
Where does Philodendron cruentospathum live?
Philodendron cruentospathum 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 Philodendron cruentospathum?
The main threats to Philodendron cruentospathum are 5.3, ai-1, ai-2, and ai-3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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