Pycnandra poindimiensis is known from a single locality (Koyaboa) situated at the top of a high hill in the eastern part of Grande Terre, in New Caledonia. It is found in low humid forest on volcano-sedimentary substrate at an altitudinal range 200-350 m asl. The main threats identified are uncontrolled bushfires and grazing by introduced rusa rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) (Cervus timorensis). According to experts these threats lead to decline in both quality of habitat and the number of mature individuals. Its extent of occurrence (EOO) and area of occupancy (AOO) are estimated to be of 4 km² while the species is known from a single location. Pycnandra poindimiensis is therefore assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) B1ab(iii,v)+2ab(iii,v).

Geographical area

Pycnandra poindimiensis is an endemic tree up to 10 m tall known from a single locality (Koyaboa) situated at the top of a high hill in the eastern part of Grande Terre.

Population

This species is known from a single population: Koyaboa.

Habitat

Pycnandra poindimiensis occurs in low humid forest on volcano-sedimentary substrate at an altitudinal range 200-350 m asl.

Threats

The main threats identified are uncontrolled bushfires, grazing by introduced rusa rusa deer (Rusa timorensis) (Cervus timorensis) and invasive plant species. In 2013, experts observed a decline in both quality of habitat and the number of mature individuals.

Conservation

Unprotected by legislation, Pycnandra poindimiensis does not occur in any protected area. Ex-situ and in-situ conservation efforts are urgently needed, in particular : ensuring the follow-up of the only known sub-population and preserving it on delimited perimeters. It is also recommended to prospect relic forests in the surroudings.

Bibliography

Endemia.nc 2016. Faune et Flore de Nouvelle-Calédonie.

Swenson U. and Muzinger J. 2016. Five new species and a systematic synopsis of Pycnandra (Sapotaceae), the largest endemic genus in New Caledonia. Australian Systematic Botany(29) , p.1-40.

Morat, P.; Jaffré, T.; Tronchet, F.; Munzinger, J.; Pillon, Y.; Veillon, J.-M. and Chalopin, M. 2012. Le référentiel taxonomique Florical et les caractéristiques de la flore vasculaire indigène de la Nouvelle-Calédonie [The taxonomic database « FLORICAL » and characteristics of the indigenous flora of New Caledonia]. Adansonia sér 3(34) , p.177-219.

Experts

Assessor(s): Amice, R., Dumontet, V., Fleurot, D., Vandrot, H., Veillon, J.

Reviewer(s): Gâteblé, G.

Contributor(s): Swenson, U., Munzinger, J.

Facilitator(s): Tanguy, V.