Pycnophyllopsis keraiopetala
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Pycnophyllopsis keraiopetala faces severe threats from mining activities and infrastructure development in its restricted high-altitude range. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat degradation from road construction and mineral extraction. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures may force this cold-adapted plant to retreat to even higher elevations where suitable habitat becomes increasingly scarce.
Habitat
This endemic species inhabits high-altitude rocky slopes and alpine cushion communities in the Andes, typically growing in crevices and on exposed mineral soils between 3,800-4,500 meters elevation. It requires well-drained, nutrient-poor substrates and is adapted to extreme temperature fluctuations and intense UV radiation characteristic of high-altitude environments.
Other threatened species in CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Threatened in Bolivia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Pycnophyllopsis keraiopetala classified as Endangered?
Where does Pycnophyllopsis keraiopetala live?
What are the main threats to Pycnophyllopsis keraiopetala?
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