EN

Platystele ovalifolia

Unknown

Overview

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

Platystele ovalifolia faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat conversion throughout its limited range in Central American cloud forests. The species' extremely small population size and restricted distribution make it particularly vulnerable to stochastic events and further habitat fragmentation. Agricultural expansion and infrastructure development continue to reduce the remaining patches of suitable montane forest habitat.

Threat summary

Habitat

This miniature orchid inhabits cool, humid cloud forests and montane rainforests at elevations between 1,200-2,400 meters. It grows as an epiphyte on moss-covered tree branches and trunks in areas with consistent moisture and filtered sunlight.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Platystele ovalifolia classified as Endangered?
Platystele ovalifolia is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. Platystele ovalifolia faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat conversion throughout its limited range in Central American cloud forests. The species' extremely small population size and restricted distribution make it particularly vulnerable to stochastic events and further habitat fragmentation. Agricultural expansion and infrastructure development continue to reduce the remaining patches of suitable montane forest habitat.
Where does Platystele ovalifolia live?
Platystele ovalifolia occurs in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, El Salvador, and French Guiana (plus 8 other countries). Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Platystele ovalifolia?
The main threats to Platystele ovalifolia 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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