Polycycnis villegasiana
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Polycycnis villegasiana faces severe threats from rapid deforestation and habitat conversion in its restricted Colombian range. Mining activities and agricultural expansion have fragmented the remaining cloud forest patches where this orchid grows. The species' extremely limited distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized habitat destruction, with entire populations potentially eliminated by single development projects.
Habitat
This epiphytic orchid inhabits humid cloud forests and montane forests in the Colombian Andes, typically growing on tree branches in areas with consistent moisture and filtered sunlight. It occurs at elevations between 1,500-2,500 meters in regions characterized by frequent fog and high humidity.
Other threatened species in ORCHIDACEAE
Threatened in Colombia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Polycycnis villegasiana classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Polycycnis villegasiana live?
What are the main threats to Polycycnis villegasiana?
Get weekly conservation intelligence
One short digest a week of the most striking species and country data we ship, plus breaking conservation news paired with our database where it matters.
Free, no spam. One-click unsubscribe in every email.