Herminium ophioglossoides
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.
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.