As for Cantharellus ibityensis, C. paucifurcatus has only been recorded from Ibity in the Central Highlands of Madagascar. The type description gave no indication of the relative abundance of C. paucifurcatus, and so it is not currently possible to estimate the population size. It is also difficult to get a clear idea of population trends of the species. Being currently known to be restricted to one site means that if there is any indication of declines happening in the near future, which could be driven by threats such as logging or land conversion for agriculture, then it could quickly warrant a listing as Critically Endangered. Therefore, C. paucifurcatus is assessed here as Vulnerable under criterion D2; although further surveys are encouraged to see if this species may be more widespread than currently known.

Chanterelle project

This species has only been recorded from Ibity, in the central highlands of Madagascar, near Antsirabe (Buyck et al. 2015).

The type description of Cantharellys paucifurcatus does not give any indication of the potential abundance of the species, although given the potential limited range of the species, it is suspected to have a small overall population size.

This species has been collected in primary Uapaca bojeri woodland, at ca 1,500 m alt. on bare soil (Buyck et al. 2015).

Logging and land conversion for agriculture are major threats to forests in Madagascar. The degree to which these are having an impact on this species, however, are uncertain.

This species is known from one area only, so ensuring protection for this site would be beneficial for this species. If this is not feasible, then raising awareness of the species, and encouraging suitable habitat management amongst local stakeholders will be important.

Research to confirm whether this species is restricted to this one site should be conducted, and the known site should be monitored in order to ascertain the population trend.