VU

Masdevallia mutica

Unknown

Overview

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

Masdevallia mutica faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as cloud forests across its Andean range are cleared for agriculture and cattle ranching. The species' extremely narrow altitudinal requirements make it particularly vulnerable to climate change, as warming temperatures force suitable habitat zones upslope beyond available terrain. Collection pressure for the horticultural trade compounds these threats, with wild populations targeted for their distinctive flowers.

Threat summary

Habitat

This epiphytic orchid inhabits cool, humid cloud forests and elfin woodlands at elevations between 2,000-3,200 meters in the Andes. It grows on moss-covered tree trunks and branches in areas with persistent fog and high humidity, requiring very specific microclimatic conditions.

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Benthamia nigrovaginata

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Epipactis atrorubens

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Huntleya apiculata

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Masdevallia mutica classified as Vulnerable?
Masdevallia mutica 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 mutica faces severe pressure from habitat destruction as cloud forests across its Andean range are cleared for agriculture and cattle ranching. The species' extremely narrow altitudinal requirements make it particularly vulnerable to climate change, as warming temperatures force suitable habitat zones upslope beyond available terrain. Collection pressure for the horticultural trade compounds these threats, with wild populations targeted for their distinctive flowers.
Where does Masdevallia mutica live?
Masdevallia mutica 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 mutica?
The main threats to Masdevallia mutica 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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