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Symplocos itatiaiae

Declining

Overview

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

Symplocos itatiaiae faces severe pressure from habitat fragmentation and degradation within Brazil's Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened biodiversity hotspots. The species' restricted range in montane cloud forests makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, including altered precipitation patterns and temperature shifts that affect the delicate moisture balance these ecosystems require. Agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce and isolate remaining forest patches, limiting gene flow between populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This endemic Brazilian species inhabits montane cloud forests and high-altitude Atlantic Forest remnants, typically occurring in areas with persistent moisture and cool temperatures. It is associated with the unique microclimate conditions found in the Serra da Mantiqueira mountain range, particularly around Itatiaia National Park.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Symplocos itatiaiae classified as Endangered?
Symplocos itatiaiae is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Symplocos itatiaiae faces severe pressure from habitat fragmentation and degradation within Brazil's Atlantic Forest, one of the world's most threatened biodiversity hotspots. The species' restricted range in montane cloud forests makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change impacts, including altered precipitation patterns and temperature shifts that affect the delicate moisture balance these ecosystems require. Agricultural expansion and urban development continue to reduce and isolate remaining forest patches, limiting gene flow between populations.
Where does Symplocos itatiaiae live?
Symplocos itatiaiae occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Symplocos itatiaiae?
The main threats to Symplocos itatiaiae 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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