Attalea crassispatha

The largest cause of death to this species is lightning strikes and tropical cyclones which are uprooting older trees. Climate change has led to a reduction in rainfall and more severe hurricanes that may negatively impact the mature population. Equally the range of the species has been converted from natural forest to urban and agricultural land, and this practice is intensifying. A possible threat to this species is the Hispaniolan Woodpecker builds its nest inside the woody bract of the inflorescence which is likely to be affecting fruit production, however it is not known the severity of this threat.

The species is found in four ex situ collections: Fairchild Botanic Garden, Montgomery Botanic Garden and in the Dominican Republic and Haiti. As well as two ex situ collections in Haiti. In Haiti, it has been planted in cemeteries, on the grounds of hospitals and monasteries and in the gardens of urban residents in Port-au-Prince and Petionville. Seed has been collected and distributed to botanical gardens worldwide. Regeneration is low, and it is difficult to germinate ex situ. Germination is about 15% over a period of six months.

Some in situ conservation action is underway, including awareness of tree owners to protect trees from cutting and damage by the Hispaniolan Woodpecker (builds nests in the inflorescence) and encouraging the propagation of seeds to expand the population in its natural range.

There is a need for continued ex situ conservation. Awareness raising is needed. Reintroduction is also a possibility. Research into the reproduction and propagation is suggested.

This species was previously assessed as Critically Endangered (Johnson 1998).