EN

Polystichum kenwoodii

Declining

Overview

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

Polystichum kenwoodii faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urban development and recreational activities in its limited range. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while invasive plant species compete for resources in its specialized habitat. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the moist conditions this fern requires.

Threat summary

Habitat

This rare fern inhabits moist, shaded rocky outcrops and cliff faces in forested areas of the Pacific Northwest. It typically grows in crevices and ledges where it can access consistent moisture while remaining protected from direct sunlight.

Other threatened species in DRYOPTERIDACEAE

VU

Madeira Holly Fern

Arachniodes webbiana

Stable
EN

Dryopteris amblyodonta

Unknown
EN

Elaphoglossum beddomei

Declining
VU

Dryopteris macropholis

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Polystichum kenwoodii classified as Endangered?
Polystichum kenwoodii is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Polystichum kenwoodii faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to urban development and recreational activities in its limited range. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while invasive plant species compete for resources in its specialized habitat. Climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the moist conditions this fern requires.
Where does Polystichum kenwoodii live?
Polystichum kenwoodii 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 Polystichum kenwoodii?
The main threats to Polystichum kenwoodii 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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