Polylepis pilosissima
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Polylepis pilosissima faces severe pressure from agricultural expansion and livestock grazing in the high Andean regions where it occurs. The species' fragmented populations are particularly vulnerable to burning practices used to clear land for cultivation and pasture, which prevents natural regeneration. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures push suitable habitat to higher elevations, reducing the already limited area available for this high-altitude specialist.
Habitat
This species inhabits high-altitude Andean forests and woodlands, typically occurring between 3,500-4,200 meters elevation in cloud forest and páramo transition zones. It grows on steep slopes and rocky terrain where it forms part of the distinctive Polylepis woodland ecosystem characteristic of the tropical Andes.
