PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN VUInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Vulnerable — at high risk of extinction if the current adverse conditions continue.ApprovedCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Quercus rapurahuensis
Rapurahu Oak
Pittier ex Trelease, 1924
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A majestic, slow-growing canopy tree capable of reaching massive proportions. It is characterized by its thick, deeply furrowed greyish bark and rigid, coriaceous, elliptical leaves with smooth or slightly wavy margins. It produces large, solitary or paired acorns nestled in a scaly, shallow cupule.
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Other Names (Global)Regional and multilingual names used for this species across different countries and languages.
Roble de alturaRapurahu OakRoble encinoOak tree
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Magnoliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Fagales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Fagaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Quercus
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Pittier ex Trelease, 1924
Record Completeness
93%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Decreasing
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Endemic to high-altitude montane cloud forests and oak-dominated highlands of Central America, predominantly in Costa Rica and Panama. It thrives in super-humid, misty environments between 1,800 and 3,000 meters above sea level, growing in deep, rich volcanic soils.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
A dominant apex tree of the cloud forest canopy. It shapes its local microclimate by capturing horizontal precipitation from clouds, which drips down to sustain the rich understory. It grows incredibly slowly, taking centuries to reach full maturity.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
1000.0 - 4000.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
The rugged, thick bark provides vital structural support against high mountain winds and serves as a heavy protective barrier against cold temperatures and epiphyte accumulation.
Rigid coriaceous leaves are highly resistant to water loss from persistent wind and assist the tree in shedding heavy, constant moisture to prevent fungal leaf infections.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Historically heavily logged for high-quality timber and charcoal production, leading to severe habitat reduction. Present-day expanding cattle ranching continues to encroach on its protected cloud forest habitats.
Low natural regeneration rates combined with climate change shifting the cloud-base altitude, which drastically impacts the moisture balance required for acorn germination.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
These giant oaks form the backbone of the ancient Talamancan montane forests, acting as massive biodiversity islands that host hundreds of species of mosses, bromeliads, and orchids on a single tree.