Rhododendron subansiriense
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Rhododendron subansiriense faces severe pressure from habitat destruction due to expanding agriculture and infrastructure development in its limited range within Arunachal Pradesh, India. The species is particularly vulnerable to collection pressure for horticultural trade, as rhododendrons are highly prized ornamental plants. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the specific temperature and moisture conditions required by this high-altitude specialist.
Habitat
This rhododendron species inhabits montane forests and alpine shrublands at elevations between 2,800-4,000 meters in the Eastern Himalayas of Arunachal Pradesh. It typically grows in rocky, well-drained soils on steep slopes with high humidity and cool temperatures year-round.