Ulmus gaussenii
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ulmus_gaussenii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Ulmus gaussenii faces severe population decline due to extensive deforestation and agricultural conversion throughout its native range in southwestern China. The species is particularly vulnerable to Dutch elm disease, which has devastated elm populations globally, while habitat fragmentation isolates remaining populations and reduces genetic diversity. Urban development and infrastructure expansion continue to eliminate critical habitat areas where this rare elm once thrived.
Habitat
Ulmus gaussenii inhabits mixed deciduous forests and woodland margins in mountainous regions of southwestern China, typically growing at elevations between 1,000-2,500 meters. The species prefers well-drained soils in temperate forest ecosystems alongside other native broadleaf trees.