VU

Semecarpus obovatus

Unknown

Overview

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

Semecarpus obovatus faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat conversion for agricultural expansion across its limited range in the Western Ghats. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its restricted distribution and slow growth rate, making population recovery difficult once local populations are eliminated. Overexploitation for traditional medicinal uses and timber extraction further compounds the decline of remaining populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests of the Western Ghats, typically occurring in moist deciduous forest margins and secondary growth areas. It grows in well-drained soils at elevations ranging from lowland areas to mid-elevation slopes, often associated with other endemic flora of the region.

Other threatened species in ANACARDIACEAE

VU

Semecarpus pubescens

Unknown
EN

Semecarpus subracemosus

Unknown
VU

Semecarpus calcicola

Stable
VU

Amphipterygium adstringens

Declining

Threatened in Sri Lanka

Indian Star TortoiseVU

Indian Star Tortoise

Geochelone elegans

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EN

Ceylonosticta nietneri

Declining
EN

Lipstick Goby

Sicyopus jonklaasi

Declining
EN

Martenstyni's Barb

Systomus martenstyni

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Semecarpus obovatus classified as Vulnerable?
Semecarpus obovatus 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. Semecarpus obovatus faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat conversion for agricultural expansion across its limited range in the Western Ghats. The species is particularly vulnerable due to its restricted distribution and slow growth rate, making population recovery difficult once local populations are eliminated. Overexploitation for traditional medicinal uses and timber extraction further compounds the decline of remaining populations.
Where does Semecarpus obovatus live?
Semecarpus obovatus occurs in Sri Lanka. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Semecarpus obovatus?
The main threats to Semecarpus obovatus 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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