Kouzi keli
CR

Kouzi keli

Angraecum calceolus

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angraecum_calceolus

Overview

Kouzi keli (Angraecum calceolus) is a rare epiphytic orchid endemic to Madagascar, characterized by its distinctive white, waxy flowers with an elongated spur and thick, leathery leaves. This species plays a crucial ecological role as a specialized pollinator partner with hawkmoths, contributing to the intricate web of Madagascar's unique forest ecosystems.

Angraecum calceolus faces severe threats primarily from habitat destruction due to deforestation and agricultural expansion in its native Madagascar. The species' extremely limited range and small population size make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities. Climate change and collection pressure for the horticultural trade further compound these threats.

Threat summary

Habitat

This orchid grows exclusively as an epiphyte on the trunks and branches of large trees in Madagascar's humid montane rainforests, typically at elevations between 800-1,500 meters. It requires the consistent moisture and filtered light conditions found in the forest canopy, often establishing in moss-covered bark crevices where organic matter accumulates.

TERRESTRIAL· major

Other threatened species in Orchidaceae

CR

Huntleya apiculata

Unknown
Masdevallia niesseniaeCR

Masdevallia niesseniae

Unknown
Encyclia nematocaulonCR

Encyclia nematocaulon

Unknown
Lepanthes diaziaeCR

Lepanthes diaziae

Unknown

Frequently asked questions

Why is Kouzi keli classified as Critically Endangered?
Kouzi keli 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. Angraecum calceolus faces severe threats primarily from habitat destruction due to deforestation and agricultural expansion in its native Madagascar. The species' extremely limited range and small population size make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities. Climate change and collection pressure for the horticultural trade further compound these threats.
Where does Kouzi keli live?
Kouzi keli 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 Kouzi keli?
The main threats to Kouzi keli 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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