red list for species in malagasy endemic plant - Missouri Botanical ...

RED LIST FOR SPECIES IN MALAGASY ENDEMIC PLANT 

FAMILIES 

III: Leptolaena sensu stricto (SARCOLAENACEAE) 

Leptolaena masoalensis – photo Cynthia Hong-Wa 

By Chris Birkinshaw, Roger Edmond, Cynthia Hong-Wa, Charlotte Rajeriarison, George Schatz 

Missouri Botanical Garden 

Antananarivo University 

ANGAP 

March 2004

Introduction 

Nowhere in the World can rival Madagascar in terms of the diversity and uniqueness of its flora. 

Estimates of the total number of plant species in the country continue to climb and now it is thought 

that at least 13,000 species of higher plant grow in the country (pers. comm. P. Phillipson). This 

remarkable diversity is especially important given that nearly all these species (around 90% - Schatz 

1999) grow only in Madagascar. Sadly Madagascar’s exceptional flora is highly threatened and an 

alarming number of plant species are now on the very brink of extinction. We must now choose 

whether to make strenuous efforts to conserve the Malagasy flora or accept, within the next few 

decades, the loss of a large number of plant species. Now is the last chance to make this choice. 

An important part of effective conservation is prioritization: the relatively small amount of money 

available for conservation must be used where it will have most impact. To assist with the 

prioritization of conservation actions for the Malagasy flora a series of documents will be produced 

containing risk of extinction estimates for species in selected Malagasy plant families. 

The research presented here was conducted as a collaborative project between Missouri Botanical 

Garden (MBG), Antananarivo University and Madagascar’s National Association for the 

Management of Protected Areas (ANGAP). 

Methods for estimating risk of extinction 

The identification of the species with the highest priority for conservation action is based on 

estimates of their likelihood of becoming extinct in the next few decades. However before the risk 

of extinction of a species can be investigated it is necessary to ensure that it has been delimited 

using a taxonomic framework that closely reflects the real distribution of variation (that in turn 

reflects underlying evolutionary history) within the genus/family to which the species belongs. In 

an endeavor associated with our study the taxonomic framework of each of Madagascar’s endemic 

families was examined by scientists from Missouri Botanical Garden and the National Museum of 

Natural History in Paris .and those judged inadequate were revised. These revisions were published 

as a series of articles in the journal Adansonia and resulted in new species being delimited, 

previously recognized species being re-circumscribed, and others placed in synonymy. 

Information on the risk of extinction of each species was obtained from the analysis of its 

distribution and from observations made in the field. Most of this work was conducted by 

Malagasy students as part of their DEA (= Masters) studies. Species distribution was estimated 

using geo-referenced locality data obtained from herbarium specimens in the five herbaria (K, MO, 

P, TAN, TEF) with large holdings of Malagasy plants. Most recent herbarium specimens include 

precise longitude and latitude coordinates of the collection location obtained using a GPS, but many 

older specimens do not, necessitating post facto allocation of coordinates by locating the collection 

site on maps with the aid of MBG’s Madagascar gazetteer (available on line at 

(http://www.mobot.org/MOBOT/Research/madagascar/gazetteer). The collection sites were 

mapped and analyzed using ArcView Geographic Information System (GIS) software. The 

resultant species distribution was quantified in terms of extent of occurrence, area of occupancy, 

and number of subpopulations. The analysis of each species’ distribution in relation to various 

environmental base maps provided information on the habitat of the species in terms of geology, 

vegetation type, bioclimate and elevation. 

Information on the habitat, abundance, pollination, seed dispersal, regeneration, threats, uses and 

vernacular name for each species was obtained by locating and studying at least one population in

the wild. The best method of locating species proved to be with the assistance of local people living 

close to previous collection sites. Information on the vernacular name and uses of the species were 

also obtained from the labels of herbarium specimens. 

Further information on the methods used in the study are provided in Table 1. 

The information collected for each species is summarized in a Risk of Extinction Datasheet

Table 1. Methods for the collection of information presented in each of the data fields of the Species 

Conservation Priority Datasheet. 

Species name and author: name of species according to the most recent 

taxonomic revision and name of author(s) who defined the species 

Vernacular names: from information collected in the field and captured 

from herbarium specimens. 

Description: based on information in the literature and our own 

observations of herbarium specimens and living plants in the field. 

Habitat: 

• Vegetation type: defined by observations in the field and analysis of the 

distribution of the species related to the vegetation map of DuPuy & 

Moat (1996) 

• Bioclimate: defined by the analysis of the distribution of the species 

related to the bioclimate map of Cornet (1974) 

• Geology: defined by observations in the field and analysis of the 

distribution of the species related to the geology map of DuPuy & Moat 

(1996) 

• Altitude: based on field observations and information captured from the 

notes accompanying herbarium specimens 

Biology: 

• Pollination: probable pollinator identified from characteristics of flower 

and observations in the field 

• Seed dispersal: probable method of seed dispersal identified from 

characteristics of fruit and observations in the field 

Uses: based on information collected by interviewing local people in the 

field and captured from the literature and notes on herbarium specimens. 

Distribution: distribution of the species represented by the 

locations of the collection sites of the herbarium specimens 

attributed to the species in the five herbaria with large 

collections from Madagascar. Map created using Arcview 

3.2 software. 

Herbarium specimens examined: list of herbarium specimens examined for this study 

Risk of extinction: based on the application of criteria presented 

in IUCN (2001) 

Conservation recommendations: our recommendations for actions to reduce the 

risk of extinction of the species. 

Observations of study population(s) 

Location: study site with geo-reference 

• Regeneration observed: presence of regeneration assumed from the presence at the 

site of individuals representative of all size classes. 

• Tolerant to disturbance: presence of regenerating populations of the species in 

severely degraded vegetation ( >50% of original biomass lost). 

• Density: average number of mature individuals of the species per ha of appropriate 

habitat based on counts in replicated plots or along transects. 

• Abundance: estimated number of mature individuals at the study site based on the 

density of the species at the site and an estimate of the area of suitable habitat 

available (abundance classes based on thresholds used in IUCN (2001). 

Predicted future decline: 

• Due to habitat loss: estimate of decline of population based on observations of 

tolerance of species to habitat perturbation and estimates of rate of loss of primary 

vegetation from (FAO 1993, Green & Sussman 1990, Steininger et al. 2002). 

Classes of population decline (i.e. 0-30%, ≥30-50%, ≥50-80%, ≥80%) relate to 

thresholds used in the IUCN (2001). 

• Due to exploitation or poor regeneration: in addition to loss of habitat it is possible 

that populations may decline because of selective exploitation or poor regeneration 

resulting for example from the increasing rarity of pollinators or seed dispersers. 

Although we were unable to quantify these factors, their possible significance is 

noted. 

Distribution attributes for total population: 

(These analyses made using ArcVeiw 3.2) 

• Extent of occurrence: estimated as the area contained within the shortest 

continuous imaginary boundary drawn to encompass all the collection locations for 

the species. 

• Area of occupancy: estimated as the area of suitable habitat (defined in terms of 

vegetation type, bioclimate, altitude and geology) for the species within the extent 

of occurrence. 

• Number of subpopulations: estimated as the number of collection locations but 

combining locations that are separated by less than 5 km. 

Representation in protected areas: 

Protected areas are defined as National Parks (PN), Special Reserves (RS), Nature 

Reserves (RNI), Biosphere Reserves (RB). 

• Number of subpopulations: number of data points within protected areas but 

combining locations separated by less than 5 km. 

• Protected areas: list of protected areas where the species has been recorded.

Endemic family with 8 genera and ca. 44 species. 

Sarcolaenaceae Caruel 

(from Schatz 2001) 

Hermaphrodite shrubs to large trees, often with stellate pubescence. Leaves alternate, simple, 

entire, penninerved or rarely pseudo-triplinerved by virtue of induplicate vernation traces, with 

caducous stipules. Inflorescences umbelliform or paniculate cymes, for sometimes flowers solitary, 

flowers small to often large and showy, regular, 5-merous, subtended by an involucre of bracts 

wich are sometimes fused to form a cup; sepals 3 (-5), imbricate; petals 5 (-6), free, or slightly fused 

at their base, twisted in bud; nectary disc present or not; stamens 5-numerous, sometimes slightly 

fused at their base into 5 fascicles, filaments slender, anthers bilocular, longitudinally dehiscent; 

ovary superior, 1-5-locular, style terminal, stigma 3-5-lobed; ovules 2-many per locule. Fruit a 

dehiscent capsule or indehiscent and somewhat woody, often surrounded partially or completely by 

the involucral bracts or cup; endosperm present. 

Key to genera of Sarcolaenaceae 

1. Leaves with longitudinal lines (vernation traces) on either side of the midrib as a result of folding in bud, 

resembling veins and thus the venation superficially triplinerved to 3-palmatinerved, rarely the traces absent 

(S. isaloensis) ......................................................................................................................Sarcolaena 

1'. Leaves lacking vernation traces on either side of the midrib, never superficially triplinerved or palmatinerved. 

2. Leaves with mixture of stellate and lepidote indument, often dense; involucre very small at anthesis, very late 

accrescent in fruit or not at all. 

3. Fruit indehiscent, surrounded by accrescent, entire involucre; ovary 2-locular ................Perrierodendron 

3'. Fruit dehiscent, the involucre accrescent or not, lobed; ovary 3-5-locular. 

4. Sepals strongly unequal, the outer 2 much smaller; petals strongly contorted in bud; ovary 3-locular; 

ovules 2 per locule ..................................................................................................Eremolaena 

4'. Sepals more or less equal; petals slightly contorted in bud; ovary 5-locular; ovules 4-6 per locule 

................................................................................................................................Pentachlaena 

2'. Leaves glabrous or with simple indument; involucre well-developed at anthesis or not, accrescent in fruit. 

5. Flowers with involucre well-developed at anthesis, deeply cup- or urn-shaped, partially or completely 

enclosing the flower in bud. 

6. Involucre only partially enclosing the flower in bud; stamens arranged in 5 fascicles; ovules many per 

locule; involucre in fruit very large, bell-like, woody, narrowly ellipsoid, thick-walled, with a circular 

opening at the apex, the fruit at the base .................................................................Xyloolaena 

6'. Involucre completely enclosing the flower in bud; stamens not in fascicles; ovules 2 (-4) per locule; 

involucre only slightly accrescent in fruit, not thick walled and bell-like with the fruit at the base 

................................................................................................................................Leptolaena (and 

Sarcolaena isaloensis) 

5'. Flowers with involucre small at anthesis, not deeply cup- or urnshaped and partially or completely 

enclosing the flower. 

7. Sepals 5, the outer 2 smaller; flowers large, pendulous, the petals showy pink-violet forming a funnelshaped 

corolla; involucre late accrescent in fruit, fleshy but not viscous, lobed but never spiny 

................................................................................................................................Rhodolaena 

7'. Sepals 3; flowers small to large, petals white to cream-yellow, rarely pink, spreading, not forming a 

funnel-shaped corolla; involucre strongly accrescent in fruit, viscous and fleshy, entire or laciniate or 

with fleshy spines....................................................................................................Schizolaena

Leptolaena Thouars, Hist. Vég. Iles Austrl. Afriq.: 41. 1805. 

Shrubs to trees to 15 tall. Leaves often quite small, stipules fused or free, visible only on very 

young branches, covering the terminal bud. Inflorescences terminal cymes or panicles, flowers 

small; involucre well-developed, cup-like, completely enveloping the flower in bud, the rim 

toothed, becoming fleshy to woody in fruit; sepals 3, persistent; petals 5, white; disc annular with 

toothed to crenulate margin; stamens 10 (-15) to numerous; ovary 3-5-locular, style distinct, stigma 

3-5-lobed; ovules 2-3 per locule. Fruit tardily dehiscent 3-lobed capsule surrounded by fleshy to 

woody accrescent involucre, with 1-3 seeds per locule. 

Leptolaena is distributed in humid to subhumid evergreen forest including the Sambirano region, 

from sea level to 1,500 m elevation, as well as dry semi-deciduous forest from the Ambongo-Boina 

region northwards. It is very closely related to Sarcolaena, with which it could well be merged. In 

general, Leptolaena can be distinguished from Sarcolaena by smaller leaves that lack vernation 

traces, smaller flowers, and a drier, more woody involucre in fruit. 

Vernacular names: amaninombilahy, amaninombilahy mena, anivoravina, anjananjana, dilatra, 

fonto, fontona, foto, fotona, fotonalahy, fotondahy, haronganipanihy, hary, hazomasy, helana, 

kotika, laro, madiorano, marosirala, milaliambomadinika, sarifatra, taimbarika, vandroza, 

vandrozana, vatsikana, voalaro, vondrozo, zahana, zana, zanalahy 

Leptolaena sensu stricto. 

Currently, the taxonomic framework for the Leptolaena-Sarcolaena complex is confused and 

species currently classified within Leptolaena sensu lato (as defined by Cavaco 1952a, b) are 

probably polyphyletic. However, within this taxa a sub-group of 8 species, classified in Leptolaena 

sensu stricto, are almost certainly monophyletic and have been made the subject of a recent 

taxonomic revision (Schatz et al. 2001): it is these that are included in this Red List treatment. An 

estimation of the risk of extinction of the remaining species currently classified as Leptolaena s.l. 

will be made once their taxonomy has been clarified. 

Species within Leptolaena s.s. differ from other species of Leptolaena s.l. by their smaller flowers 

and smaller number of stamens.

Key to species of Leptolaena sensu stricto 

(from Schatz et al. 2001) 

1. Leaves small, the largest blades usually < 2 cm long (occasionally to 4.5 cm), broadly ovate to circular or rhombic; 

inflorescences composed of 1-5 flowers..............................................................................................L. pauciflora 

1’. Leaves larger, the largest blade > 3 cm long, lanceolate, obovate or narrowly to broadly ovate or elliptic; 

inflorescences composed of 7-50 flowers (2-8 L. masoalensis) ..........................................................2 

2. Leaf apex obtuse to rounded, sometimes emarginated ....................................................................3 

2’. Leaf apex acute to acuminate. ........................................................................................................4 

3. Involucre urceolate, 3 mm tall, covered with dense granular ferruginous indumentum ; sepals exerted 1-1.5 mm 

beyond involucre; leaves narrowly to broadly elliptic, secondary veins (8-)11-13 per side................L. delphinensis 

3’. Involucre ellipsoid to oblong, 7 mm tall, covered with sparse, short white indumentum ; sepals completely included 

within involucre; leaves elliptic to slightly obovate, secondary veins usually 8 per side....................L. masoalensis 

4. Leaves sparsely to moderately sericeous below, with both short appressed trichomes and longer slightly raised 

trichomes often exceeding 1 mm long (older leaves occasionally subglabrous), margins distinctly revolute 

.............................................................................................................................................................L. raymondii 

4’. Leaves glabrous below or with indumentum restricted to the midvein, margins weakly revolute to flat, sometimes 

minutely thickened ..............................................................................................................................5 

5. Leaf blades with evident indumentum on the midvein below .........................................................6 

5’. Leaf blades completely glabrous (rarely a few trichomes at the base of the midvein below) ........7 

6. Involucre usually < 3 mm tall, densely golden yellow granular farinose, rounded at the base with a distinct peduncle 1 

mm long; petals 7-9 x 1-1.5 mm; leaves lanceolate to ovate, apex distinctly cuspidate......................L. cuspidata 

6’. Involucre 3-3.5 mm tall, densely ferruginous granular farinose, usually also with slightly erect whitish trichomes 0.5 

mm long, especially in the lower portion, evenly tapering to a cuneate base, with an indistinct peduncle

Leptolaena cuspidata – photo by Cynthia Hong-Wa Leptolaena masoalensis – photo by Cynthia Hong-Wa 

Leptolaena multiflora – photo Cynthia Hong-Wa Leptolaena pauciflora – photo Cynthia Hong-Wa 

Leptolaena raymondii – photo Cynthia Hong-Wa Leptolaena cuspidata fruits – photo Cynthia Hong-Wa

RISK OF EXTINCTION DATASHEETS

Leptolaena abrahamii G.E. Schatz & Lowry Risk of extinction: east Least Concern (although this species 

has a high predicted population decline it has several large and 

apparently secure sub-populations within protected areas). 

Vernacular names : Anjananjana beravina Conservation Recommendations: good management of 

protected areas 

Description: 

Medium tree. Leaf small (medium), lanceolate, strongly 

falcate, curved, asymmetrical, base acute/obtuse, apex 

acuminate/cuspidate, papery, hairless when mature; petiole 

glabrous. Inflorescence with 6-23 flowers. Sepals equal to 

(or barely exceed) teeth of involucre. Petals pale yellow. 

Flower stalk 1-1.5 mm. Fruit ovoid/globose, 2 mm longer 

than fleshy involucre. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: mid-elevation evergreen forest 

• Bioclimate: humid, subhumid 

• Geology: basement rock 

• Altitude: 800-1,200 m 

Biology 

• Pollination: probably insects (bees seen visiting flowers at 

Sahamaloto)) 

• Seed dispersal: probably birds and lemurs (at Sahamaloto 

fruits reported to be eaten by various birds (Hypsipetes 

madagascariesnsis, Treron australis) and Varecia 

variegata). 

Uses 

Timber (posts and house frames), bark used for manufacture 

of toaka gasy (alcoholic drink) 

Observations of study population(s): 

• Location: Sahamaloto (19°03’11’’S, 48°12’34’’E) 

Distribution 

• Regeneration observed: yes 

• Tolerant to disturbance: no 

• Abundance: 2,500-10,000 mature individuals 


• due to habitat loss : 50-80% (cause of loss = tavy) 

• because of exploitation or poor regeneration: decline possible 

because of selective exploitation for timber and reduction in 

populations of possible seed dispersers and selective 

exploitation. 


• Extent of occurrence: 10,080 km² 

• Area of occupancy: 3,329 km² 

• Number of subpopulations: 14 



• Protected areas: Analamazaotra RS, Zahamena PN, 

Ranomafana PN 

Herbarium specimens examined: Fianarantsoa: Ranomafana PN, SF(Rahahova) 14241, Ampasinambo, SF 13718, Toamasina: Ampasimpotsy, 

SF(Ratovoarison) 3497, Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, Mamisoa N. Andrianjafy & Y.F. Razafindrakoto 28, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, James S. Miller, J. 

Bradford, F. Rakotonasolo & A. Randrianasolo 8746, Farizana, SF(Paina) 5070 Perinet-Analamazaotra RS, SF(Ratovoarison) 14959, Perinet-Analamazaotra 

RS, SF(Ramaroson,A.) 6242, Sandrangato, SF(Rabenaivo,G.R.) 25441, Perinet-Analamazaotra RS, SF(Sampana,J.P.) 7564, [Sandrangato, SF(Ranaivojaona,N.) 

21898, Sandrangato, SF(Abraham) 21955, Perinet-Analamazaotra RS, SF(Station forestière d'Analamazaotra) 21244 , Antsahapandrano, SF(Ratovoarison) 

21282, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, SF(Razafimandimby,M.) 10348, Ambatovy, Gordon McPherson 17523, Périnet-Analamazoatra, G.E. Schatz & J. 

Rabenantoandro 3991, Périnet-Analamazoatra, G.E. Schatz 3993, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, M. Louvel 33, Ambatovy, Ph. Morat 3218, Zahamena RNI, 

RN(Botoalina) 12684, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, RN(Goulbert Andrianavo) 15, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, SF 7509,Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, SF 3773, 

Nangarana, SF(9-R-FAO) 26927, Nangarana, SF(50-R-FAO) 26968, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, R. Viguier & H. Humbert 851, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, H. 

Perrier de la Bâthie 5336, Zahamena RNI, RN(Botoalina) 3169, Périnet-Anamalazaotra RS, Mabberley 813, Périnet-Analamazaotra RS, SF 17932, Zahamena 

RNI, SF 26096, Zahamena RNI, RN (Laibosaka) 10953, Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, SF(A. Fauchère) 12,, Bemainty, G. Cours 4230, Nonokambo, (G. Cours) 

1206, Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, E. Thouvenot (Ramanantoavolana) 12, Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, SF(Ratovoarison F. d'Assise) 124-B-R-172 

Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, SF(Ratovoarison F. d'Assise) 105-B-R-172, Zahamena, N.M. Andrianjafy et al. 255.

Leptolaena cuspidata Baker Risk of extinction: Least Concern (although this species is 

expected to decline it has several large and apparently secure 

sub-populations within protected areas it is also somewhat 

tolerant to degradation of its habitat). 

Vernacular names : Zahana Conservation Recommendations: good management of 


Description: 

Shrub or small tree. Leaf small, lanceolate/ovale with 

rounded base and long cuspidate apex, papery, hairless at 

maturity, mid-rib evident on lower surface and covered with 

small brown hairs, petiole hairy. Inflorescence with 14-27 

flowers. Flower stalk 1 mm. Involucre < 3 mm long, urnshaped, 

covered with yellowish powder. Sepals exceed 

involucre by 2 mm. Petals greenish white. Fruit ovoid and 

exceeding fleshy involucre by 1.5 mm. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: low-elevation evergreen forest, dry 

deciduous forest 

• Bioclimate: subhumid, dry 

• Geology: sandstone, lava, basement rocks, Mesozoic 

limestone, unconsolidated sands, alluvial and lake deposits 

• Altitude: 20-800 m 

Biology 

• Pollination: probably insects (bees, beetles and butterflies 

seen visiting the flowers at Analavory) 

• Seed dispersal: probably birds and lemurs (Hypsipetes 

madagascariensis, Treron australis and Eulemur macaco 

reported to eat fruit at Analavory) 

Uses 

Timber for construction, bark and leaves used for medicine 

Distribution 


• Location: Analavory (13°45’36’’S, 48°31’40’’E) 


• Tolerant to disturbance: yes 

• Abundance: >10,000 mature individuals 


• because of habitat loss: 30-50% (cause of habitat loss = tavy) 


because of increasing rarity of vertebrate dispersers and 

selective exploitation. 


• Extent of occurrence: 12.319 km² 

• Area of occupancy: 2.571 km² 




• Protected areas: Ankaranana RS, Manongarivo RS, 

Tsaratanana RNI 

Herbarium specimens examined: Antsiranana: Antsatsaka, Chris Birkinshaw 1, Beramanja, Pete Phillipson 2017, Beramanja, SF(R. Capuron) 3078, 

Andilamboay, SF(Gachet) 3142, Tsaratanana RNI, SF(Gachet) 3171, Anjakely, SF(Petit-Marie,J.) 8225, Ambilobe, SF(Marohavina) 10434, Manongarivo RS, 

SF(R. Capuron) 11486, Manongarivo RS, P. Derleth 89, Manongarivo RS, S. Totozafy Be 563, Ambato FC, H. Ravololonanahary et al. 37, Ampasindava, J. 

Bosser 20152, Ambilobe, SERVICE FORESTIER 36016, Ambanja, R. Randrianaivo et al. 261, Ambohipiraka, H. Humbert & G. Cours 32873, Anjakely, SF 

12987 Ambohipiraka, G. Cours & H. Humbert 5674, Ambilobe, H. Humbert & R. Capuron 25580, Ankarana RS, H. Humbert & G. Cours 32649, 

Ambohipiraka, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 5340, Maromandia, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 3023, Ambanja, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 3021, Ambilobé, R. Decary 14775, 

Ambilobé, R. Decary 14794, Manongarivo RS, Stiefel, S.-L. 68, Andilamboay, SF(Gachet) 3141, Mahajanga, between Ambandamanga-Manambaliha and 

Ambodigavo, D. Baum 333

Leptolaena delphinensis G.E. Schatz & Lowry Risk of extinction: Critically Endangered (A3c) 

Vernacular names : Fotona, Foto, Fotondahy Conservation Recommendations: a) inclusion in new 

protected area, b) use in restoration of land following QMM 

mining activities at Mandena 

Description: 

Medium tree. Leaf medium, elliptical/obovate with obtuse 

base and rounded/obtuse apex, edge slightly or strongly 

recurved, papery; petiole hairless. Inflorescence with 20-65 

flowers. Involucre urn-shaped, 3 mm long, densely covered 

with tiny brownish hairs. Sepals exceeding involucre by 1- 

1.5 mm. Petals white. Fruit globose and included within 

involucre. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: littoral forest 

• Bioclimate: Humid 

• Geology: unconsolidated sand, basement rock, alluvial and 

lake deposits 


Biology 

• Pollination: probably by insects (bees, beetles and 

butterflies seen visiting flowers at Mandena) 

• Seed dispersal: probably birds and lemurs (Cheirogaleus 

sp. reported to eat fruits at Mandena) 

Uses 

Timber for construction, bark used as a bittering agent in 

toaka gasy (a locally-made alcoholic drink), exploited as fire 

wood. 

Distribution 


• Location: Mandena (24°57’14’’S, 47°00’00’’E) 


• Tolerant to disturbance: yes (abundant on degraded land) 



• because of habitat loss : >80% (reason for loss = tavy, burning, 

mining) 





• Extent of occurrence: 221 km² 

• Area of occupancy: 14 km² 




• Protected areas: none 

Herbarium specimens examined: Toliara: Mandena SF, N. Dumetz 683, Mandena, G. McPherson & N. Dumetz 14665, Ste. Luce, G. McPherson, et 

al. 14835, Mandena, G. McPherson, et al. 14142, Ste. Luce, R. Rabevohitra 2053, Ste. Luce, G. McPherson, et al. 14222, Mandena, James L. Zarucchi et al. 

7504, Mandena SF, SF(Lamarque,P.) 8207, Mandena, SF(R. Capuron) 399, Mandena SF, SF(Ranjatson,E.) 14597, Mandena SF, W.G. Johnson WII 37, 

Mandena FC, Johny Rabenantoandro et al. 308, Manafiafy(=Sainte Luce), SF(R. Capuron) 28656, Mandena SF, R. Rabevohitra et al. 3701, Mandena, J. 

Rabenantoandro et al. 271, Mandena, J. Rabenantoandro et al. 272, Mandena SF, R. Rabevohitra et al. 3671, Mandena SF, R. Rabevohitra et al. 3683, 

Mandromodromotra, R. Rabevohitra et al. 3739, Sainte Luce, L. Faliniaina, J. Rabenantoandro & E. Ramisy 38, Mandena SF, H. Jacquemin 1149, Ambinanibe, 

, R. Decary 10064, Mandena, L. Faliniaina et al. 80, Mandena STF, Faly Randriantafika & E. Ramisy 261, Mandena STF, Faly Randriantafika, S.C. Hery & E. 

Ramisy 310

Leptolaena gautieri G.E. Schatz & Lowry Risk of extinction: Least Concern (although this species is 

expected to decline it has several large and apparently secure 

sub-populations within protected areas). 

Vernacular names : Anjananjana Conservation Recommendations: Good management of 


Description: 

Medium tree. Leaves medium, ovate with rounded base and 

acute/acuminate apex, papery, midvein hairy on lower 

surface of leaf; petiole hairy. Inflorescence with 8-29 

flowers. Involucre urn-shaped, 3-3.5 mm long, densely 

covered with tiny red-brown hairs. Sepals exceed involucre 

by 1.5 mm. Petals white. Fruit ovate/globose, entirely 

included within involucre. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: mid-elevation evergreen forest 

• Bioclimate: humid, subhumid 

• Geology: basement rocks, ultrabasic rock, sandstones 

• Altitude: 300-1,250 m 

Biology 

• Pollination: probably by insects (bees seen visiting flowers 

at Ambatovy) 

• Seed dispersal: probably by birds and lemurs (Treron 

australis and Varecia variegata reported to eat fruits at 

Ambatovy). 

Uses 

Timber used for construction 

Distribution 


• Location: Ambatovy (18°51’S, 48°18’E) 

• Regeneration observed: Yes 

• Tolerant to disturbance: No 



• because of habitat loss : 50-80% (tavy, mining) 










• Protected areas: Manongarivo RS, Marojejy RNI, Tsaratanana 

RNI, Analamazaotra RS 

Herbarium specimens examined: Antsiranana: Manongarivo RS, G.E. Schatz 3233, Marojejy RNI, A. Randrianasolo 307, Marojejy RN, A. 

Randrianasolo 325, Manongarivo RS, P.J. Rakotomalaza 48, Manongarivo RS, G. McPherson & H. van der Werff 16359, Manongarivo RS, G. McPherson & H. 

van der Werff 16396, Manongarivo RS, S. Malcomber & L. Rakotomalala 2608, Manongarivo RS, L. Gautier & S. T. Be 2920, Manongarivo RS, L. Gautier & 

C. Chatelain 2361, Manongarivo RS, L. Gautier, N. Messmer & F. Andriatsiferana 3510, Tsaratanana RNI, RN(Sajy) 2237, Tsaratanana RNI, Rakotozafy 336, 

Antongondriha, H. Humbert & R. Capuron 24147, Manongarivo RS, L. Gautier et C. Chatelain 2344 , Toamasina: Mantady PN, Michel Randriambololona et al. 

17, Ambatovy, P.J. Rakotomalaza et al. 1279, Ambatovy, P.J. Rakotomalaza et al. 1286, Ambatovy, P.J. Rakotomalaza et al. 1309, Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, 

Mamisoa N. Andrianjafy 31, Ambatovy, P.-J. Rakotomalaza et al. 1046, Ambatovy, Gordon McPherson 17467, Analamazaotra-Périnet RS, J.-N. Labat et al. 

3068, Analamazaotra-Perinet RS, Toliara: Vohimavo, H. Humbert 20704

Leptolaena masoalensis G.E. Schatz & Lowry Risk of extinction: Critically Endangered (D) 

Vernacular names : Non rapporté Conservation Recommendations: a) inclusion of Ambato 

Massif inside Masoala PN, b) search for new populations, c) 

conservation ex-situ 

Description: 

Shrub. Leaf small, elliptic/obovate with symmetrical 

rounded/cuneate base and rounded apex, upper surface dark 

green, lower surface white-green, margins very revolute, 

leathery, hairless; petiole hairless. Inflorescence with 2-12 

flowers. Involucre ellipsoid/oblong, 7 mm long, with sparse 

white hairs. Sepals completly included within involucre. 

Petals white. Fruit globose/ovoid, included within involucre. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: low elevation evergreen forest, thicket 

• Bioclimate: humid 

• Geology: basement rock 

• Altitude: 380 m 

Biology 

• Pollination: probably insects (no observations made but the 

floral characteristics and nature of visitors to the flowers of 

other species suggest insect pollination). 

• Seed dispersal: probably by lemurs and birds 

Uses 

None known 

Distribution 

Herbarium specimens examined: Antsiranana: Masoala PN, G. Rahajasoa, J. Rabe & R. Bernard 790 


• Location: Ambato-Masoala (15°16’18’’S, 50°20’35’’E) 



• Abundance:

Leptolaena multiflora Thouars Risk of extinction: Least Concern (although this species has a 

high predicted population decline it has several apparently 

secure sub-populations within protected areas). 

Vernacular names: Amaninaombilahy Conservation Recommendations: a) good management of 

protected areas, b) creation of new littoral forest protected areas 

Description: 

Medium (large) tree. Leaf blade medium (small), elliptic, 

somewhat falcate with acute apex, papery to leathery, 

hairless. Inflorescence with 9-47 flowers. Involucre urnshaped/cup-shaped. 

Sepals exceeding involucre by 1-1.8 

mm. Petals white. Fruit small, ovoid, entirely included 

within the involucre. 

Habitat: 

• Vegetation type: littoral forest, low elevation evergreen 

forest 


• Geology: unconsolidated sand, lavas, alluvial and lake 

deposits, basement rocks 

• Altitude: 0-1,400 m 

Biology; 

• Pollination: probably by insects (bees seen visiting flowers 

at Mahatsara). 

• Seed dispersal: probably birds and lemurs (Hypsipetes 

madagascariensis and Hapalemurs griseus reported to eat 

fruit at Mahatsara) 

Uses: timber for construction and bark for medicine 


Distribution 

• Location 1: Mahatsara STF (17˚38’21”S, 49˚29’02”E) 



• Abundance: 50-250 mature individuals 

• Location 2: Tampolo F.C. (49°24’, 17°16’) 



• Abundance: 1000-2,500 mature individuals 


• because of habitat loss: 50-80% (cause of loss = tavy and fire) 




Distribution attributes for total population 

• Extent of occurrence: 180 310 km² 

• Area of occupancy: 29 691 km² 




• Protected areas: Masoala PN, Mananara RB, Manombo RS, 

Zahamena RN 

Herbarium specimens examined: Antsiranana: [Masoala], SF(Roberson) 7494 .Masoala PN, G. Rahajasoa, R. Bernard & J. Rabe 424.Masoala PN, G. 

Rahajasoa, R. Bernard & J. Rabe 522.Masoala PN, Roger Bernard 372. Beankoraka, J. Rabe 157. Masoala RNI, RN(A.Tata) 2746. Masoala RNI, RN(Tsilizy) 

5514.Sahamalaza (Masoala), Service Forestier 34575. Masoala RNI, RN(P. Naivo) 9124 . Masoala RNI, RN (Ranjokiny) 9113 . Masoala RNI, RN (Ranjokiny) 

9310. Masoala RNI, RN(Zata) 3403 .Nosy-Be, Ch. d'Alleizette 268 . Andohan'Ifosa, R. Randrianaivo et al. 613, Ankarana, Lalao Jérémi Razafitsalama & R. 

Ludovic 28. Fianarantsoa : Manombo RS, SF(Girard) 15302 . Andrazaha, SF(Ratsirahonana) 15378 .Manombo SF, SF(Andriantsiferana,H.) 12929 

.Amporoforo, SF(Rakotomanana) 12401 Manombo SF, SF(Ratsimbazafy) 21493 . Amporofo, SF(Bora,Fl.) 13906 .Ifanirea, SF(Razanakolona) 14504 

Tohakandra, SF 3680 .Analavory, SF 15493 Evato, SF 16215 Ampangalana Atsimo, SF 19535 Ifanirea, SF 4813 Ampangalana Atsimo, SF 9501 Ambazato, SF 

16118 Misevo, Service Forestier 3809 Ifandana, R. Decary 5198 Mahabo, R. Rabevohitra & J. Rabenantoandro 3808 Manampano, SF(M. Jonarson) 89-R-303 

Vohitrakora, SF(A. Rakoto) 29-R-273 Mahabo, G. McPherson & J. Rabenantoandro 18317: Mahabo, Johny Rabenantoandro & G. McPherson 677. Toamasina: 

Soanierano Ivongo, SF(Rakoto,J.D.) 2414: [Mananara RB, C. Birkinshaw et al. 354 Ambila Lemaitso SF, SF(Lemanivo) 1616 Foulpointe, SF(Kiener,A.) 5677 

Vohibola, SF(R.Capuron) 18082 Tampolo SF, SF(Zavah,P.) 15215 Rantabe, SF(Ch. Randriamanga) 6252 Antetezana STF, SF(Todivelona) 7510 Tampolo SF, 

SF(Laisonoa) 10076 : Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF(Andre) 21217 Tampolo SF, A. Randrianasolo 458 Tampolo STF, L.C. Raholivelo & G.E. Schatz 37 . Rantabe, 

N. Mamisoa Andrianjafy, F.Y. Razafindrakoto & R. Jaovita 66 Tampolo SF, SF 10053 Tampolo SF, SF 16472Antetezana, SF 4679 Zahamena RN, RN(R. 

Laibosaka) 12429 Rantabe, SF(R.Capuron) 8901 Ambila-Lemaitso, SERVICE FORESTIER 29892 Mahatsara, SERVICE FORESTIER 32831 Tampolo SF, SF 

17820 Lakato, SERVICE FORESTIER 29717 Mahatsara, , SERVICE FORESTIER 34550 Mahatsara, SERVICE FORESTIER 35140 Tampolo SF, SERVICE 

FORESTIER 29860 Tampolo SF, SERVICE FORESTIER 19172 Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF(L. Bégué) 745-R-1 Antetezana SF, SF(A. Kiener) 4-R-7 Tampolo 

SF, SF 19173 (P). Tampina, SF(Dumazer) s.n. Tampina, E. Ursch 116 Foulpointe, L.-H. Boivin s.n. Mahanoro, H. Perrier de la Báthie 14186 Mahatsara STF, 

Johny Rabenantoandro et al. 563 Tampolo STF, S.G. Razafimandimbison 150 .Tampolo STF, Johny Rabenantoandro et al. 536 . Tampolo STF, Richard 

Razakamalala et al. 142 Mahatsara STF, Richard Razakamalala et al. 151 Tampolo STF, Reza Ludovic & L.J. Razafintsalama 78 Antetezana STF, Reza Ludovic 

et al. 124 Tampolo STF, F. Y. Razafindrakoto et al. 61

Leptolaena pauciflora Baker Risk of extinction: Least Concern (although this species has a 

high predicted population decline it has several apparently 

secure sub-populations within protected areas and is also 

somewhat tolerant of burning). 

Vernacular names : Fotona, Foto Conservation Recommendations: Good management of 


Description: 

Shrub. Leaves small, round/ovate with rounded base and 

obtuse apex, somewhat leathery, hairless at maturity; petiole 

with small hairs. Inflorescence with 10-30 flowers. 

Involucre with 1-5 flowers. Sepals exceeding involucre by 

1-1.5 mm. Petals green-white. Fruit ovoid, enclosed within 

involucre. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: littoral forest, low and mid elevation 

evergreen forest 

• Bioclimate: humid, subhumid, dry 

• Geology: basement rocks, unconsolidated sands, lake and 

alluvial deposits, cipolin, quartzites, sandstones, lava 


Biology 

• Pollination: probably insects (bees seen visiting flowers at 

Lakandava) 

• Seed dispersal: probably birds and lemurs (Foudia 

madagascariensis and Merops superciliosus reported or seen 

eating fruit at Lakandava – but neither of these species is 

normally considered to be a seed disperser) 

Uses 

Roots used for beauty mask, bark used in the manufacture of 

toaka gasy (a locally-made alcoholic drink), fruit eaten, fire 

wood. 

Distribution 


• Location: Lakandava (24°57’16’’S, 46°58’54’’E) 


• Tolerant to disturbance: somewhat tolerant of fire 



• because of habitat loss : 50-80% (cause of loss = tavy) 


because of increasing rarity of vertebrate dispersers 







• Protected areas: Ambohitantely RS, Andringitra RNI, 

Andohahela RNI, Analamazaotra RS, Manombo RS, Zahamena 

RNI

Herbarium specimens examined: Antananarivo: Anjozorobe, D.K. Harder, M.C. Merello & S.G. Razafimandimbison 1536 Anjozorobe, G.E. Schatz, 

et al. 2961: Anjozorobe, P. P. Lowry II & J. Randrianasolo 4375 Anjozorobe, P. P. Lowry II & J. Randrianasolo 4397 Anjozorobe, James L. Zarucchi et al. 7345 

Anjozorobe A. Rakotozafy, P. Phillipson, S. Malcomber & S. Razafimandimbison 2682 Ambohitantely RS, SF 34023 Anjozorobe, R.E. Gereau, P.-J. 

Rakotomalaza, T. Razafindrabeaza, G. Rafamatanatsoa & F. Andriatsiferana 5690 Anjozorobe, James S. Miller, J. Bradford, F. Rakotonasolo & A. 

Randrianasolo 8777 Manankazo-Ankazobe SF SF(Ecol.Forest.) 16806 Ankafobe, G.E. Schatz, F.Y. Razafindrakoto, N. M. Andrianjafy & J. Rabenantoandro 

3955 .Andranofeno-Sud, Mamisoa N. Andrianjafy et al. 11 Ambohitantely RS, Reserves Naturelles 6706: Sahatsio, H. Humbert 7111 Tampoketsa d'Ankazobe, 

J. Bosser 7944 Tampoketsa, J. Bosser 15978 Ambohitantely RS, G. Cremers 1624 Ambohitantely RS, G. Cremers 2020 Sahatsio, J. Bosser 9969 Col des Tapia, 

J. Bosser 18772 Ambohitantely RS, SERVICE FORESTIER 3-R-3 Ambohitantely RS, SERVICE FORESTIER 34202 Ambohitantely RS, Service Forestier 

19874: Ambohitantely RS, R. Randrianaivo et al. 75 Antsirabe, T.B. Croat 29218 Anjozorobe, A.J.M. Leeuwenberg & S.H.J.V. Rapanarivo 14648 

Ambohitantely RS, SF 9592 Ambohitantely RS, SF(R.Capuron) 8416: Tsitondroina, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 13180 Anjozorobe, SF 15156 Ambohitantely RS, H. 

Humbert 11090 Ambohitantely RS, RN(Jean de Dieu) 168 Ambohitantely RS, RN(Jean de Dieu) 202 Manankazo, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 5337 Ibity, H. Perrier 

dela Bâthie 5341 Ibity, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 13574 Ankazobe, R. Decary 7302 Manankazo SF, R. Decary 17214 Tampoketsa d'Ankazobe, R. Decary 14927 

Ambohitantely RS, R. Decary 7473 Fianarantsoa: Ivato, A. Randrianasolo 232 Ambohimanjaky, , C.H. Jongkind & Solo Rapanarivo 828 Ambohimanjaka, C.H. 

Jongkind & Solo Rapanarivo 932 Ambohimanjaka, L.J. Dorr, L.C. Barnett, M.R. Cheek, A. Rakotozafy & N. Razafimalala 3842: Mont Ibity, L. Barnett 502 

Ampandrambato, SF(L.Bégué) 2708: between Ivato and Itremo, , Leeuwenberg, A.J.M. & G.R. Rafamantanantsoa 14443 Marohita, SF(Razafy,G.) 5631: 

Vohipaho, , SF(Tovolahy,A.) 5625: Ambohimanana, SF(Ranaivo,E.) 19695 Mananjary, SF(Dinard,A.) 7035 Misevo, [, SF(Randrianasolo,G.) 7292 

Ampangalana Atsimo, SF(Jonarson,M.) 13701 Itremo, , J. Rabenantoandro et al. 62: Itremo, N. Messmer & F. Andriatsiferana 781 Ambatofinandrahana, M. 

Keraudren-Aymonin & G. Aymonin 25712 Itremo, G.E. Schatz, F.Y. Razafindrakoto, N.M. Andrianjafy & J. Rabenantoandro 3964 Ambohimanjaka, J.-N. 

Labat et al. 3010 Andringitra RN, RN(Rakoto J. de la C.) 6507 Ivato, Morat 3315: between Ivato and Ambatofinadrahana, G. Cremers 2052 Faliarivo, R. Decary 

14023 Mangatsiatra, SF 4829 Fiadanana, J. Peltier & M. Peltier 2159: Anjoma, J. Peltier & M. Peltier 2184: Anosivelo, SF 3811: Analalava, SF 14670 

Ankazondratana, SF 16113 Ankijana, SF 14763 Ankijana, SF 13472 Marohita, SF 9540 Antanambao, Service Forestier 14047 Nosy-Varika, SF 14661 

Androrangalava, SF 16119: Andringitra RNI, RN (Rakotovao) 7166 Andringitra RNI, RN (Rakotoson) 11691 Andringitra RNI, RN (Rakoto, J.C.) 706 Itremo, 

Croat, T.B. 29910 Mananjary, F. Geay 7707 Mananjary, F. Geay 8708: Mananjary, F. Geay 7926: Faliarivo, SF(R. Capuron) 11542 Ambatofinandrahana, R. 

Decary 13226 Ambatofinandrahana, H. Humbert & R. Capuron 28059 Itremo, H. Humbert 29938 Andringitra RNI, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 3004 Mananjary, F. 

Geay 7618 Mananjary, F. Geay 7507 Faliarivo, , H. Humbert 14477: Itremo, M. Keraudren-Aymonin & G.G. Aymonin 26009 Vatovavy, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 

4488 Ambila, H. Perrier de la Bâthie s.n. Ambatofinandrahana, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 3007 Matatana, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 3012 Ambositra, R. Decary 17403 

Ambositra, R. Decary 17311 Col des Tapia, H. Humbert & C.F. Swingle 4640: Faliarivo, R. Decary 14036 Ambatofinandrahana, R. Decary 13063: 

Ambatofinandrahana, R. Decary 17333 Itremo, SF 54-R-10 Mahabo, R. Rabevohitra & J. Rabenantoandro 3770 Mahabo, G. McPherson & J. Rabenantoandro 

18281 Mahajanga: Manandona, SF(R.Capuron) 232 Antsiasiaka, Ph. Morat 4512: Sahavoay, SF 15806: Beveromay, H. Perrier de la Bâthie 13213 Ilaka-Est, A. 

Randrianasolo 292 Toamasina: Ambila-Lemaitso, G. E. Schatz & P. P. Lowry 1320 Ambila-Lemaitso, Pete Phillipson 1850: Ambila-Lemaitso, James L. 

Zarucchi et al. 7411 Ambila-Lemaitso, A. Randrianasolo 224 Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF(Verdet) 3259 Mahanoro, SF(Tefamila) 3267 Ambila-Lemaitso, B. Lewis 

& S. Razafimandimbison 728 Ambila Lemaitso SF, SF(Ecol.Forest.) 1122 Ambila Lemaitso SF, SF(L.Bégué) 1569: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF(Verdet) 5737: 

Fierenana, SF(Abraham) 7598: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF(Andre) 7258 Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF(Rakotozafy,Pau.) 13180: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, G. Cours 2981 

Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF 4887 Marosiky, Ambila-Lemaitso SF, A.J.M. Leeuwenberg & R. Ranaivojaona 14589: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF 4157 Ambila- 

Lemaitso SF, SF 4711 Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF 4908 Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF 4707 Ampangalana Atsimo, SF 9506: Ambila-Lemaitso, SERVICE 

FORESTIER 32214: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, SF 9647 Iamboala, SF 19626 Didy, G. Cours 4646: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, R. Decary 6388: Ampasimpotsy SF, SF 

25366: Manohilahy, SF(R.Capuron) 18771: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, R. Decary 6502: Ambila-Lemaitso SF, RN(E. Rakoto) 1499 Zahamena RNI, RN(Rakotovao) 

11247:, Mahanoro, Perrier de la Bâthie 18120: Andranomandry, SF(J. P. Abraham) 25298: Brickaville, SF(J. P. Abraham) 30851: Antanambao (Tanambao), 

SF(R. Rabevohitra) 34662: Ambila - Lemaitso, SF(R. Rabevohitra) 29895: Ambila-Lemaitso, S.G. Razafimandimbison 179 . Zahamena PN, F. Ratovoson et al. 

524 Toliara: Andohahela RN, A. Randriamanantena & J. Durbin 119: Manantantely, A. Randrianasolo 283: Analalava, G. McPherson 14278: Evatra, R.E. 

Gereau, N. Dumetz, & R. Rabevohitra 3294 Ste. Luce, G. McPherson, et al. 14164: Andohahela RN, Beberonn Randriamampionona 331 Andohahela RN, 

Beberonn Randriamampionona 569: Andohahela RNI, Ph. Morat 4411 Mandena SF, SF(Lamarque,P.) 6077 Mandena SF, SF(Lamarque,P.) 7419: Mandena SF, 

SF(Rajaonarivelo,M.) 7820 Vatovary(=Vatovory), SF(Marlange) 12988 Mandromodromotra, SF(Rakotozafy,J.B.) 7771 Sainte Luce (Manafiafy), A. 

Randrianasolo 347: Ampasimena, H. Humbert 20623: Vohimavo, H. Humbert 20702: [Mandena], Edmondson, N.Z. et al. 95-57: Fort-Dauphin, R. Decary 4038: 

Pic St Louis, J. Bosser 14138: Andohahela RNI, SF(R.Capuron) 22456: Manantenina, , SF 9668: Andohahela RNI, RN(Randriamiera, H.) 13-RN-XI: 

Mahialambo, P. Boiteau 2568: Fort-Dauphin, M. Keraudren-Aymonin & G.G. Aymonin 24894: Pic Saint Louis, M. Keraudren 1062: Enivaha, H. Humbert 

5864: Mandena SF, W.G. Johnson WII 33: Fort Dauphin, G.F. Scott-Elliot 2369: Fort Dauphin, G.F. Scott-Elliot 2753: Fort Dauphin, G.F. Scott-Elliot 2554: 

Fort Dauphin, G.F. Scott-Elliot 2713bis: Fort Dauphin, M. Keraudren-Aymonin & G.G. Aymonin 24997 Mandromodromotra, H. Jacquemin 1158: 

Ambaravano, H. Jacquemin 934 Pic Saint Louis, R. Decary 10011: Pic St. Louis, H. Humbert 5899: Imonty, H. Humbert 14080: Andohahela RNI, H. Humbert 

13835: Mandena, Porter P. Lowry II, R. Rabevohitra & J. Rabenantoandro 5215 Mandena, Faly Randriantafika & G. Sehatrefy 247:

Leptolaena raymondii Schatz & Lowry Risk of extinction: Critically Endangered (A3, B1ab, B2ab, 

C2aii) 

Vernacular names: Amaninaombilahy Conservation Recommendations: a) good management of 

Mahatsara Forestry Station, in particular, protection of the site 

against fire; b) reinforcement of the population at Mahatsara and 

possible reintroduction to a neighbouring site c) conservation 

ex-situ. 

Description: 

Small (medium) tree. Leaves small, ovate with acuminate 

falcate apex, somewhat asymmetrical, long hairs on lower 

surface, margin strongly revolute, papery; petiole with 

tomentum. Inflorescence with, 6-25 flowers. Involucre urnshaped. 

Petals white/pale yellow. Fruit globose, exceeding 

the involucre. 

Habitat 

• Vegetation type: littoral forest 


• Geology: unconsolidated sand 


Biology 

• Pollination: probably by insects (bees, beetles, and hornets 

seen visiting flowers at Mahatsara) 

• Seed dispersal: probably by birds and lemurs (no 

observations available but fruit characteristics and 

observations of animals eating the fruits of other Leptolaena 

species suggests species animal dispersed) 

Uses 

Timber used for construction and leaves used medicinally. 

Distribution 


• Location: Mahatsara STF (17˚38’21”S, 49˚29’02”E) 





• because of habitat loss: > 80% (cause of habitat loss = fire) 


because of increasing rarity of large vertebrate dispersers and 


Distribution attributes for total population 

• Extent of occurrence: 0,17 km² (17 ha) 

• Area of occupancy: 0,17 km² (17 ha) 




• Protected areas: none 

Herbarium specimens examined: Toamasina: Mahatsara, SF 34104 Mahatsara STF, Armand Randrianasolo & R. Ranaivojaona 638). Mahatsara STF, 

SF(Comtet) 34407 Mahatsara SF, SERVICE FORESTIER 35141. Mahatsara SF, SERVICE FORESTIER 34554. Mahatsara STF, SERVICE FORESTIER 

32648 Mahatsara STF, Johny Rabenantoandro et al. 562

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Cavaco A. (1952b). Chlénacées. Flore de Madagascar 126: 1-37. 

Cornet A. (1974). Essai de Cartographie bioclimatique à Madagascar. ORSTOM, Paris. 

DuPuy D.J. & Moat J. (1996). A refined classification of the primary vegetation of Madagascar 

based on underlying geology: using GIS to map its distribution and to assess conservation stuatus. 

In Lourenco W.R. (Ed) Proceedings of the International Symposium on the biogeography of 

Madagascar: 205-218. ORSTOM, Paris. 

FAO (1993). Forest Resources assessment 1990. Tropical Countries. FAO Forestry Paper 112. 

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Hong-Wa C. (2003). Description, études écologiques, distribution, utilisation et risque d’extinction 

des espèces du genre Leptolaena Thouars sensu stricto (Sarcolaenaceae, Famille Endémique 

Malgache). Mémoire de DEA, University of Anananarivo, Madagascar. 

IUCN (2001). IUCN Red List Categories and Crtieria: Version 3.1. IUCN Species Survival 

Commission. IUCN, Gland Switerland. 

Schatz G.E. (2001). Generic Tree Flora of Madagascar. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri 

Botanical Garden. 

Schatz G.E., Lowry P.P., and Wolf A-E. (2001). Endemic families of Madagascar VII. A synoptic 

revision of Leptolaena Thouars sensu stricto (Sarcolaenceae). Adansonia sér 3. 23(2): 171-189. 

Steininger M., Harper G., Juhn D., and Hawkins F. (2002). Analyse de Changement de Couverture 

Forestière Nationale: 1990-2000. CI, CABS, NASA.

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