CR

Phyllanthus cristalensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Phyllanthus cristalensis faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to mining activities and urban development in its restricted Cuban range. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while invasive plant species compete for resources in its specialized limestone habitat. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns affecting the delicate moisture balance required for this endemic shrub's survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Cuban species inhabits specialized limestone karst formations and rocky outcrops in dry coastal areas. It typically grows in crevices and shallow soils of limestone substrates where few other plants can establish, requiring specific drainage and mineral conditions.

Other threatened species in Phyllanthaceae

CR

Hieronima crassistipula

Unknown
CR

Phyllanthus chryseus

Unknown
CR

Phyllanthus comosus

Unknown
VU

Cleistanthus bracteosus

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Phyllanthus cristalensis classified as Critically Endangered?
Phyllanthus cristalensis 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. Phyllanthus cristalensis faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to mining activities and urban development in its restricted Cuban range. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while invasive plant species compete for resources in its specialized limestone habitat. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns affecting the delicate moisture balance required for this endemic shrub's survival.
Where does Phyllanthus cristalensis live?
Phyllanthus cristalensis 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 Phyllanthus cristalensis?
The main threats to Phyllanthus cristalensis 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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