VU

False Bird of Paradise

Heliconia platystachys

Unknown

Overview

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

The False Bird of Paradise faces severe pressure from rapid deforestation across its limited Central American range, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama where agricultural expansion and urban development fragment its lowland forest habitat. Climate change compounds these threats by altering precipitation patterns essential for this moisture-dependent species, while its specialized pollination requirements make it vulnerable to ecosystem disruption. The species' restricted distribution and specific habitat needs leave little room for adaptation as suitable forest areas continue to shrink.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits humid lowland tropical forests and forest edges from sea level to 800 meters elevation, preferring areas with consistent moisture and partial shade. It thrives in secondary growth forests and can tolerate some habitat disturbance, often found along streams and in forest clearings where light penetration supports its growth requirements.

Other threatened species in Heliconiaceae

VU

Heliconia episcopalis

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is False Bird of Paradise classified as Vulnerable?
False Bird of Paradise is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The False Bird of Paradise faces severe pressure from rapid deforestation across its limited Central American range, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama where agricultural expansion and urban development fragment its lowland forest habitat. Climate change compounds these threats by altering precipitation patterns essential for this moisture-dependent species, while its specialized pollination requirements make it vulnerable to ecosystem disruption. The species' restricted distribution and specific habitat needs leave little room for adaptation as suitable forest areas continue to shrink.
Where does False Bird of Paradise live?
False Bird of Paradise occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to False Bird of Paradise?
The main threats to False Bird of Paradise are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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