Rarotonga Psychotria
Psychotria whistleri
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Psychotria whistleri faces severe threats from deforestation and habitat conversion in its limited range within the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to local disturbances, including agricultural expansion and infrastructure development. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and temperature shifts that could affect the specific microhabitat conditions this endemic coffee family species requires.
Habitat
This endemic species inhabits the moist evergreen forests of the Western Ghats in India, typically found in shaded understory environments with high humidity and consistent moisture levels. It occurs in primary forest areas at specific elevational ranges where the microclimate supports its specialized ecological requirements.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in RUBIACEAE
Threatened in Cook Islands
Frequently asked questions
Why is Rarotonga Psychotria classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Rarotonga Psychotria live?
What are the main threats to Rarotonga Psychotria?
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