EN

Pteris marquesensis

Declining

Overview

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

Pteris marquesensis faces severe threats from invasive plant species that outcompete native vegetation and alter forest understory conditions essential for fern survival. Habitat degradation from introduced ungulates, particularly feral pigs and goats, damages the forest floor and root systems. The species' extremely limited range on the Marquesas Islands makes it highly vulnerable to stochastic events and climate-related changes in precipitation patterns.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic fern inhabits the understory of native montane forests in the Marquesas Islands, typically growing in shaded, humid conditions on volcanic soils. It occurs in remnant forest patches at elevations where moisture levels remain relatively stable throughout the year.

Other threatened species in PTERIDACEAE

VU

Vittaria reekmansii

Unknown
EN

Pteris kivuensis

Unknown
CR

Pteris lidgatei

Declining
EN

Actiniopteris kornasii

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Pteris marquesensis classified as Endangered?
Pteris marquesensis 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. Pteris marquesensis faces severe threats from invasive plant species that outcompete native vegetation and alter forest understory conditions essential for fern survival. Habitat degradation from introduced ungulates, particularly feral pigs and goats, damages the forest floor and root systems. The species' extremely limited range on the Marquesas Islands makes it highly vulnerable to stochastic events and climate-related changes in precipitation patterns.
Where does Pteris marquesensis live?
Pteris marquesensis 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 Pteris marquesensis?
The main threats to Pteris marquesensis 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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