Nepenthes erucoides
About
This ultramaficolous species, *Nepenthes erucoides*, is notable for its unique adaptation to extreme ultramafic substrates, growing on lateritic nickel ore and chromite rubble. Its epithet, meaning 'resembling caterpillar,' refers to its densely hairy developing leaves and tendrils.
Field notes
Morphology
The species exhibits reduced leaf morphologies, sclerophyllous characteristics, hirsuteness, and a small stature. The epithet refers to the densely hairy developing leaves and tendrils, which are said to resemble caterpillars.
Distribution & habitat
Endemic to Mount Redondo, the highest peak on the Philippine island of Dinagat, occurring from approximately 800 meters up to the summit at 929 meters.
History & etymology
The specific epithet erucoides is formed from the Latin eruca (caterpillar) and Greek -oides (resembling), referring to the densely hairy developing leaves and tendrils, which resemble certain erebid macromoths.
Conservation
Informally assessed as Critically Endangered under IUCN Red List criteria B1ab (ii, iii) + 2ab (i, ii, iii), due to its occurrence within a reduced area and threat from declining habitat integrity.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 800–929 m
- Altitude class
- intermediate
- Native to
- Mindanao, Palawan
- IUCN status
- Critically Endangered
Taxonomy
- Described
- 2019
- Authority
- A.S. Rob. & S.G. Zamudio
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate