CR

Habenaria lewallei

Unknown

Overview

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

Habenaria lewallei faces severe threats from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion in its limited range within the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while ongoing political instability in the region hampers conservation efforts. Mining activities and slash-and-burn agriculture continue to fragment the remaining suitable habitat patches.

Threat summary

Habitat

This terrestrial orchid inhabits moist grasslands and woodland margins at elevations between 1,200-1,800 meters in the Katanga region of southeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. It typically grows in areas with well-drained soils and partial shade provided by scattered trees or forest edges.

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protection

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Habenaria lewallei classified as Critically Endangered?
Habenaria lewallei 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. Habenaria lewallei faces severe threats from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion in its limited range within the Democratic Republic of Congo. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while ongoing political instability in the region hampers conservation efforts. Mining activities and slash-and-burn agriculture continue to fragment the remaining suitable habitat patches.
Where does Habenaria lewallei live?
Habenaria lewallei occurs in Burundi. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Habenaria lewallei?
The main threats to Habenaria lewallei are 2.1, 2.3, 3.1, and 5.3. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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