Global Diversity and Conservation Challenges of Cinnamomum Schaeff. (Lauraceae): A Synthesis of IUCN Red List Taxa

Abstract

The genus Cinnamomum (Lauraceae) comprises diverse evergreen trees and shrubs found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia and Oceania, where they are prized for their aromatic, culinary, and therapeutic properties. In this systematic review, 230 Cinnamomum taxa from the IUCN Red List have been assessed, where precise biogeographical metrics such as Extent of Occurrence (EOO), Area of Occupancy (AOO), and Species Distribution Modeling (SDM) have been used to estimate the population and distribution status of every taxon. These distribution boundaries are analyzed by the IUCN using standardized coordinate attributes and spatial software (GeoCat, MaxEnt, etc.). The findings reveal that 195 taxa urgently need conservation, highlighting advanced biotechnological strategies such as optimized seed germination protocols, somatic embryogenesis, and integrated in situ and ex situ preservation. Their specific threat statuses, ecological requirements, targeted breeding and conservation approaches remain entirely underexplored. This comprehensive synthesis has also addressed critical data gaps, providing a baseline for future exploration, taxonomic verification, and ecological modeling of these outlook taxa. Ultimately, protecting this evolutionarily unique genus requires scaled, science‐driven frameworks, tailored conservation strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration to ensure the long‐term survival of its diversity and the integrity of its native ecosystems.