VU

Polycarpaea paulayana

Unknown

Overview

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

Polycarpaea paulayana faces severe pressure from habitat degradation and loss across its limited range in the Canary Islands. The species is particularly vulnerable to urban development, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure projects that fragment its specialized coastal and semi-arid habitats. Invasive plant species compete directly with this endemic flora, while climate change threatens to alter the delicate moisture and temperature conditions it requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Canarian plant inhabits coastal areas, rocky slopes, and semi-arid scrublands at low to moderate elevations. It typically grows in well-drained soils among native shrub communities and rocky outcrops where it can access adequate moisture while tolerating salt spray and wind exposure.

Shrubland· major

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Polycarpaea paulayana classified as Vulnerable?
Polycarpaea paulayana is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Polycarpaea paulayana faces severe pressure from habitat degradation and loss across its limited range in the Canary Islands. The species is particularly vulnerable to urban development, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure projects that fragment its specialized coastal and semi-arid habitats. Invasive plant species compete directly with this endemic flora, while climate change threatens to alter the delicate moisture and temperature conditions it requires for survival.
Where does Polycarpaea paulayana live?
Polycarpaea paulayana occurs in Global, Samha Isl.; Soqotra, and Socotra. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Polycarpaea paulayana?
The main threats to Polycarpaea paulayana 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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