Assessment Rationale:

Seddon (2008) assessed this species as Vulnerable D2 (version 3.1) due to the limited number of known localities (under 5) with a gradual decline in habitat quality close to roads and gardens. Like all species on Madeira, the species also has a restricted extent of occurrence. Given the restricted number of localities, the fact that most locations are closely localised in central Madeira and possible threats related to the decline of the habitat quality of this species, it is listed as Vulnerable (VU) D2.

The species was previously assessed as Conservation Dependant, as most sites lie in the central area, where the laurisilva forest is protected. This category was removed in version 3.1, so the revised assessment is Vulnerable based on the range data.

Geographic Range:

This species is endemic to Madeira,where it is mainly found in the laurisilva forest in the central mountains, although there is a single site on the north coast (Seddon 2008).

Population:

This species is found in a limited number of localities, suggesting it is relatively rare.

Habitat and Ecology

This species is found in damp shaded ravines, at the base of tall crags and on rocky ledges amongst leaf-litter, soil and mosses.

Major Threat(s):

This species is possibly affected by a gradual decline in habitat quality close to roads and along levadas (irrigation channels) where non-native plant species have become established.

Conservation Actions

No specific conservation measures for this species are known, however most sites lie in the central area, where the laurisilva forest is protected, and as such protection of the habitat should provide protection for this species.