CR

Brahea salvadorensis

Declining

Overview

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

Brahea salvadorensis faces severe population decline due to extensive habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in El Salvador. The species is further threatened by overcollection for ornamental use, as these palms are highly valued in landscaping. Climate change poses an additional risk through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the specific microhabitat conditions this endemic palm requires for survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic palm inhabits dry tropical forests and woodland areas in the mountainous regions of El Salvador, typically growing on rocky slopes and in areas with well-drained soils. The species is adapted to seasonal rainfall patterns and occurs at elevations where it can access sufficient moisture during dry periods.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Brahea salvadorensis classified as Critically Endangered?
Brahea salvadorensis is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Brahea salvadorensis faces severe population decline due to extensive habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in El Salvador. The species is further threatened by overcollection for ornamental use, as these palms are highly valued in landscaping. Climate change poses an additional risk through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the specific microhabitat conditions this endemic palm requires for survival.
Where does Brahea salvadorensis live?
Brahea salvadorensis occurs in El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Brahea salvadorensis?
The main threats to Brahea salvadorensis are 11.1, ai-1, ai-2, and ai-3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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