CR

Hang's Paphiopedilum

Paphiopedilum hangianum

Declining

Overview

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

Paphiopedilum hangianum faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with its striking appearance making it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely restricted range in northern Vietnam makes entire populations vulnerable to overcollection. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and limestone quarrying in its karst limestone habitat further threatens the remaining wild populations.

Threat summary

Habitat

This terrestrial orchid grows exclusively in shaded areas of karst limestone formations in montane forests of northern Vietnam. It typically occurs on steep limestone slopes with rich humus deposits at elevations between 800-1200 meters.

Rocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

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

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CR

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VU

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Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Hang's Paphiopedilum classified as Critically Endangered?
Hang'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 hangianum faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with its striking appearance making it highly sought after by collectors. The species' extremely restricted range in northern Vietnam makes entire populations vulnerable to overcollection. Habitat degradation from agricultural expansion and limestone quarrying in its karst limestone habitat further threatens the remaining wild populations.
Where does Hang's Paphiopedilum live?
Hang'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 Hang's Paphiopedilum?
The main threats to Hang's Paphiopedilum are 1.1, 11.1, 11.2, and 3.2. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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