CR

Cynorkis muscicola

Declining

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Cynorkis muscicola faces severe threats from ongoing deforestation and habitat degradation in Madagascar's remaining forest fragments. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while its specialized moss-dependent ecology limits its ability to colonize new areas. Agricultural expansion and slash-and-burn practices continue to reduce the humid forest microhabitats essential for this orchid's survival.

Threat summary

Habitat

This terrestrial orchid inhabits humid montane forests of Madagascar, growing specifically on moss-covered rocks and tree bases in shaded understory conditions. It requires the specialized microclimate of intact forest ecosystems with consistent moisture levels and minimal disturbance.

Conservation measures underway

Legislation

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Cynorkis muscicola classified as Critically Endangered?
Cynorkis muscicola is classified as Critically Endangered — facing an extremely high risk of extinction in the wild — because population sizes are very small, declining sharply, or restricted to a tiny range. Cynorkis muscicola faces severe threats from ongoing deforestation and habitat degradation in Madagascar's remaining forest fragments. The species' extremely restricted range makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while its specialized moss-dependent ecology limits its ability to colonize new areas. Agricultural expansion and slash-and-burn practices continue to reduce the humid forest microhabitats essential for this orchid's survival.
Where does Cynorkis muscicola live?
Cynorkis muscicola occurs in Madagascar. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Cynorkis muscicola?
The main threats to Cynorkis muscicola are 5.3, 5.4, ai-1, and ai-2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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