VU

Restrepia chameleon

Unknown

Overview

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

Restrepia chameleon faces mounting pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its limited Andean range. The species' dependence on specific cloud forest microclimates makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as even small clearings can alter the humidity and temperature conditions essential for its survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by shifting the altitudinal zones where suitable conditions exist, potentially forcing populations into increasingly restricted refugia.

Threat summary

Habitat

This epiphytic orchid inhabits cloud forests and humid montane forests between 1,500-2,800 meters elevation in the Colombian and Ecuadorian Andes. It grows on moss-covered tree branches and trunks in areas with consistent high humidity and cool temperatures.

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Restrepia chameleon classified as Vulnerable?
Restrepia chameleon 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. Restrepia chameleon faces mounting pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion throughout its limited Andean range. The species' dependence on specific cloud forest microclimates makes it particularly vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, as even small clearings can alter the humidity and temperature conditions essential for its survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by shifting the altitudinal zones where suitable conditions exist, potentially forcing populations into increasingly restricted refugia.
Where does Restrepia chameleon live?
Restrepia chameleon 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 Restrepia chameleon?
The main threats to Restrepia chameleon 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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