VU

Herminium ophioglossoides

Unknown

Overview

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

Herminium ophioglossoides faces severe pressure from agricultural intensification and grassland conversion across its European range. The species' specialized mycorrhizal relationships make it particularly vulnerable to soil disturbance and chemical fertilizer application. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures may disrupt the delicate ecological balance required for this orchid's survival in montane and subalpine environments.

Threat summary

Habitat

This small terrestrial orchid inhabits nutrient-poor grasslands, alpine meadows, and montane pastures across Europe, typically growing in calcareous soils at elevations between 500-2000 meters. It requires specific mycorrhizal fungal partnerships and thrives in traditional extensive grazing systems that maintain open, species-rich grassland communities.

Other threatened species in ORCHIDACEAE

EN

Porpax angustifolia

Unknown
EN

Polystachya longiscapa

Unknown
CR

The Lost Spathoglottis

Spathoglottis arunachalensis

Declining
VU

Disperis galerita

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Herminium ophioglossoides classified as Vulnerable?
Herminium ophioglossoides 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. Herminium ophioglossoides faces severe pressure from agricultural intensification and grassland conversion across its European range. The species' specialized mycorrhizal relationships make it particularly vulnerable to soil disturbance and chemical fertilizer application. Climate change poses an additional threat as warming temperatures may disrupt the delicate ecological balance required for this orchid's survival in montane and subalpine environments.
Where does Herminium ophioglossoides live?
Herminium ophioglossoides 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 Herminium ophioglossoides?
The main threats to Herminium ophioglossoides 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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