Ostrya rehderiana

The rapid reduction in the population of this species was most probably due to deforestation and planting of bamboos. The continued habitat destruction and human disturbances are a major threat to this species. Visible damage to remaining individuals shows that human disturbance continues to threaten this species. Continued habitat destruction weakens regenerative ability and results in very few seedlings beneath the remaining individuals. Competition from other species is also a threat to this species, especially bamboo which is a fast growing species reaching full size within three to four months.  

This species has been reported to have a very limited natural recruitment as well as a high mortality rate. A recent study found low levels of genetic diversities in the five extant, naturally regenerating individuals. It is unlikely the species has experienced a long-term bottleneck as the previous population was quite common, however there is evidence of inbreeding depression having an effect on offspring survival.

Conservation of this species, both in situ and ex situ, is essential to ensure its survival. Mount Xitianmu (West Tianmu Mountain) has been declared as a nature reserve and great attention has been given to this species. Stone fences have been erected around the trees by the roadside where individuals are extremely threatened. To stimulate natural regeneration, the public needs to be educated not to destroy and trample the existing stands. Despite efforts, they do not appear to be regenerating well naturally. Although the Hangzhou Botanical Garden and the Zhejiang College of Forestry have the species in cultivation, it is still necessary to collect additional seeds for breeding to expand the cultivation program. The species is also subject to legal protection. It has been recommended that the cutting of bamboos and trees, that compete with this species for light, be considered especially in habitats that contain both mature individuals and seedlings. Ex situ conservation is also essential to ensure survival of this species.