Showy Tonguefern
Elaphoglossum decoratum
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Showy Tonguefern faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat conversion in its limited montane cloud forest range. Agricultural expansion and logging activities have fragmented its specialized epiphytic habitat, while climate change threatens to alter the moisture-dependent conditions essential for this fern's survival. Its restricted distribution makes the species particularly vulnerable to localized habitat destruction.
Habitat
The Showy Tonguefern inhabits montane cloud forests, growing as an epiphyte on tree trunks and branches in humid, mist-shrouded environments. It requires consistent moisture and filtered light conditions typical of undisturbed tropical mountain forests at elevations between 1,000-2,500 meters.
Other threatened species in Dryopteridaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Showy Tonguefern classified as Endangered?
Where does Showy Tonguefern live?
What are the main threats to Showy Tonguefern?
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