VU

Masdevallia hortensis

Unknown

Overview

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

Masdevallia hortensis faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as cloud forests in its native range are cleared for agriculture and urban development. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes entire populations vulnerable to localized disturbances, while climate change threatens to shift the cool, humid conditions essential for its survival. Overcollection by orchid enthusiasts has further reduced wild populations of this prized ornamental species.

Threat summary

Habitat

This epiphytic orchid inhabits cool, humid cloud forests and montane regions at elevations between 1,500-2,500 meters. It grows on moss-covered tree branches and rocks in areas with consistent moisture and filtered sunlight.

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 Masdevallia hortensis classified as Vulnerable?
Masdevallia hortensis 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. Masdevallia hortensis faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as cloud forests in its native range are cleared for agriculture and urban development. The species' extremely restricted distribution makes entire populations vulnerable to localized disturbances, while climate change threatens to shift the cool, humid conditions essential for its survival. Overcollection by orchid enthusiasts has further reduced wild populations of this prized ornamental species.
Where does Masdevallia hortensis live?
Masdevallia hortensis 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 Masdevallia hortensis?
The main threats to Masdevallia hortensis 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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