VU

Ruagea smithii

Declining

Overview

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

Ruagea smithii faces primary threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited Andean range. Agricultural expansion, particularly cattle ranching and crop cultivation, continues to reduce available cloud forest habitat. The species' restricted elevational range makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, as warming temperatures may force populations to higher elevations where suitable habitat becomes increasingly scarce.

Threat summary

Habitat

Ruagea smithii inhabits montane cloud forests and humid upper montane forests in the Andes, typically occurring at elevations between 1,800-3,000 meters. The species requires the persistent moisture and specific microclimate conditions found in these high-altitude forest ecosystems.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Ruagea smithii classified as Vulnerable?
Ruagea smithii is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Ruagea smithii faces primary threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited Andean range. Agricultural expansion, particularly cattle ranching and crop cultivation, continues to reduce available cloud forest habitat. The species' restricted elevational range makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, as warming temperatures may force populations to higher elevations where suitable habitat becomes increasingly scarce.
Where does Ruagea smithii live?
Ruagea smithii occurs in Colombia. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Ruagea smithii?
The main threats to Ruagea smithii 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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