Perrierodendron quartzitorum

Perrierodendron quartzitorum is a plant in the family Sarcolaenaceae. It is endemic to Madagascar.

Perrierodendron quartzitorum
Conservation status
Critically Endangered  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Plantae
Clade:	Tracheophytes
Clade:	Angiosperms
Clade:	Eudicots
Clade:	Rosids
Order:	Malvales
Family:	Sarcolaenaceae
Genus:	Perrierodendron
Species:	P. quartzitorum
Binomial name
Perrierodendron quartzitorum J.-F.Leroy, Lowry, Haev., Labat & G.E.Schatz[2]

Description

Perrierodendron quartzitorum grows as a shrub or small tree up to 6 metres (20 ft) tall. Its chartaceous to subcoriaceous leaves are obovate to elliptical in shape. They are coloured dark green above, pale green below and measure up to 4 cm (2 in) long. The inflorescences bear one to three flowers, each with five sepals and five white petals. The orange fruits are conical and measure up to 2.5 cm (1 in) long.^[3]

Distribution and habitat

Perrierodendron quartzitorum is found only in a single location in the Itremo Massif in the central region of Amoron'i Mania. The estimated area of occupancy is 45 km² (17 sq mi). Its habitat is rocky areas and woodlands at about 1,000–2,000 m (3,300–6,600 ft) altitude.^[2]

Threats

Perrierodendron quartzitorum is threatened by nomadic animal grazing and seasonal uncontrolled wildfires. The species population is decreasing.^[1] Formerly, there were subpopulations in Isalo and Zombitse-Vohibasia National Parks,^[2] but, as of the IUCN species assessment in 2015, there are no longer any subpopulations in protected areas.^[1]