Hymenophyllum contractile
Overview
Hymenophyllum contractile is a species of fern in the family Hymenophyllaceae. It is endemic to Ecuador. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Hymenophyllum contractile faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to deforestation and agricultural expansion in its limited range. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized disturbances, while climate change poses additional risks through altered precipitation patterns that could affect the humid microenvironments essential for this delicate fern's survival.
Habitat
This critically endangered fern inhabits humid, shaded environments in tropical montane forests, typically growing as an epiphyte on tree trunks and rocks in areas with consistent moisture and filtered light. It requires very specific microclimate conditions with high humidity and stable temperatures found in undisturbed forest ecosystems.
Other threatened species in HYMENOPHYLLACEAE
Threatened in Ecuador
Frequently asked questions
Why is Hymenophyllum contractile classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Hymenophyllum contractile live?
What are the main threats to Hymenophyllum contractile?
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