Gnetum luofuense


Gnetum luofuense, also known as , is a species of gymnosperm in the family Gnetaceae. It is native to southeastern China and is considered a near threatened species.

Distribution and habitat

Gnetum luofuense is native to southeastern China and can be found in Fujian, Guangdong, southern Jiangxi, and Hong Kong, with the type locality being Luófú Shān in Guangdong province. It grows in dense, moist forests at elevations of to.

Description

Gnetum luofuense is a dioecious vine with purplish-brown bark. The oblong or oblong-ovate leaves may be papery or leathery in texture and measure by.

Ecology

Pollination occurs from May to July, with seeds reaching maturity from August to October. Nocturnal moths appear to be the predominant pollinator of this species, but other insects often visit the strobili without pollinating. Asian honey bees have been found to steal pollen from male strobili.

Conservation status

Gnetum luofuense is listed as near threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List. It is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, with much of its native forest habitat having been cleared for agricultural use.