Delanat's Paphiopedilum
CR

Delanat's Paphiopedilum

Paphiopedilum delenatii

Declining

Photo: Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

Overview

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

Paphiopedilum delenatii faces severe pressure from overcollection for the international orchid trade, where its distinctive pink and white flowers command high prices among collectors. The species' extremely limited range in northern Vietnam makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and limestone quarrying. Wild populations have declined dramatically due to unsustainable harvesting, with many historical sites now completely depleted.

Threat summary

Habitat

This terrestrial orchid grows exclusively in limestone karst formations in northern Vietnam, typically found in shaded areas under forest canopy on steep rocky slopes. It requires specific soil conditions with excellent drainage and high humidity levels characteristic of tropical montane environments.

Wetlands (inland) - Permanent rivers/streams· majorRocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Resource & habitat protectionSpecies recoverySpecies reintroductionEx-situ conservationAwareness & communicationsLegislationLinked enterprises & livelihood alternatives

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Delanat's Paphiopedilum classified as Critically Endangered?
Delanat's Paphiopedilum 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. Paphiopedilum delenatii faces severe pressure from overcollection for the international orchid trade, where its distinctive pink and white flowers command high prices among collectors. The species' extremely limited range in northern Vietnam makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and limestone quarrying. Wild populations have declined dramatically due to unsustainable harvesting, with many historical sites now completely depleted.
Where does Delanat's Paphiopedilum live?
Delanat's Paphiopedilum occurs in China, and Vietnam. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Delanat's Paphiopedilum?
The main threats to Delanat's Paphiopedilum are 1.1, 11.1, 11.2, and 4.1. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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