Ascoglossum calopterum
Overview
Renanthera caloptera is a species in the family Orchidaceae. It was formerly the only species in the monotypic genus Ascoglossum, abbreviated Ascgm in the horticultural trade. It is endemic to Dinagat Island in the southern Philippines and is critically endangered by collection as an ornamental plant and habitat loss. Its flowers are a vivid purple.
Ascoglossum calopterum faces severe threats from deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its limited range in tropical montane forests. The species' specialized epiphytic lifestyle makes it particularly vulnerable to logging activities and forest conversion for agriculture. Climate change poses an additional threat through altered precipitation patterns and temperature shifts that affect the humid microenvironments essential for this orchid's survival.
Habitat
This epiphytic orchid inhabits humid montane forests, typically growing on tree trunks and branches in cloud forest environments at elevations between 1,000-2,500 meters. It requires consistent moisture and filtered light conditions found in the forest canopy of tropical mountain ecosystems.
Other threatened species in ORCHIDACEAE
Threatened in Philippines
Frequently asked questions
Why is Ascoglossum calopterum classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Ascoglossum calopterum live?
What are the main threats to Ascoglossum calopterum?
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