Swartz's Pigeonplum
Coccoloba swartzii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Swartz's Pigeonplum faces severe pressure from coastal development and tourism infrastructure expansion across its Caribbean range, particularly in Jamaica and the Bahamas where beachfront construction directly destroys its native habitat. Hurricane damage and increased storm intensity associated with climate change pose additional threats to remaining populations, as this species depends on stable coastal forest ecosystems. Agricultural conversion and invasive plant species further fragment the already limited suitable habitat for this endemic Caribbean tree.
Habitat
Swartz's Pigeonplum inhabits coastal forests, woodland edges, and scrublands throughout the Caribbean islands, particularly favoring well-drained soils near shorelines. The species thrives in both primary and secondary forest habitats from sea level to moderate elevations, often growing in association with other native Caribbean coastal vegetation.
Other threatened species in Polygonaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Swartz's Pigeonplum classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Swartz's Pigeonplum live?
What are the main threats to Swartz's Pigeonplum?
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