Puya brachystachya
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Puya brachystachya faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and livestock grazing in its restricted Andean range. Mining activities and infrastructure development have further fragmented the remaining populations of this endemic bromeliad. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the specific temperature and precipitation patterns required for this high-altitude specialist.
Habitat
This terrestrial bromeliad inhabits high-altitude Andean grasslands and rocky slopes, typically found in páramo and puna ecosystems between 3,000-4,500 meters elevation. It grows in well-drained soils among native grasses and cushion plants in areas with distinct wet and dry seasons.
Other threatened species in Bromeliaceae
Threatened in Colombia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Puya brachystachya classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Puya brachystachya live?
What are the main threats to Puya brachystachya?
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