Stanhopea reichenbachiana
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Stanhopea reichenbachiana faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat conversion throughout its Central American range, particularly in Costa Rica and Panama where cloud forest ecosystems are being cleared for agriculture and development. The species' specialized epiphytic lifestyle makes it extremely vulnerable to forest fragmentation, as it requires mature trees with specific microclimatic conditions for survival. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the moisture and temperature regimes of montane cloud forests, potentially shifting suitable habitat to higher elevations where less forest remains.
Habitat
This epiphytic orchid inhabits montane cloud forests between 1,200-2,400 meters elevation, growing on moss-covered branches of mature trees in areas with persistent fog and high humidity. It requires the specific microclimatic conditions found in undisturbed cloud forest canopies, particularly the consistent moisture and filtered light provided by the forest's complex vertical structure.
Other threatened species in Orchidaceae
Threatened in Colombia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Stanhopea reichenbachiana classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Stanhopea reichenbachiana live?
What are the main threats to Stanhopea reichenbachiana?
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