Pilea tungurahuae
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Pilea tungurahuae faces severe pressure from ongoing deforestation and agricultural expansion within its limited Andean range in Ecuador. The species' restriction to cloud forest habitats makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, as rising temperatures push suitable conditions to higher elevations. Mining activities and infrastructure development in the Tungurahua region pose additional localized threats to remaining populations.
Habitat
This endemic nettle inhabits montane cloud forests and humid Andean slopes between 2,000-3,500 meters elevation in Ecuador's Tungurahua province. It typically grows in shaded understory environments with high humidity and consistent moisture from cloud cover.