VU

Polystichum marquesense

Unknown

Overview

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

Polystichum marquesense faces severe pressure from invasive plant species that outcompete native vegetation and alter soil chemistry in its montane forest habitat. Habitat degradation from introduced ungulates, particularly feral pigs and goats, damages the understory environment where this fern establishes. The species' extremely limited range on the Marquesas Islands makes it highly vulnerable to stochastic events and climate-driven changes in precipitation patterns.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic fern inhabits montane rainforests and cloud forests of the Marquesas Islands, typically growing in shaded understory environments with high humidity and well-drained volcanic soils. It occurs at elevations between 800-1200 meters where persistent cloud cover maintains the moist conditions essential for its survival.

Other threatened species in DRYOPTERIDACEAE

VU

Madeira Holly Fern

Arachniodes webbiana

Stable
EN

Dryopteris amblyodonta

Unknown
EN

Elaphoglossum beddomei

Declining
EN

Polystichum kenwoodii

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Polystichum marquesense classified as Vulnerable?
Polystichum marquesense 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. Polystichum marquesense faces severe pressure from invasive plant species that outcompete native vegetation and alter soil chemistry in its montane forest habitat. Habitat degradation from introduced ungulates, particularly feral pigs and goats, damages the understory environment where this fern establishes. The species' extremely limited range on the Marquesas Islands makes it highly vulnerable to stochastic events and climate-driven changes in precipitation patterns.
Where does Polystichum marquesense live?
Polystichum marquesense 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 marquesense?
The main threats to Polystichum marquesense 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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