Paphiopedilum sukhakulii
Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paphiopedilum_sukhakulii
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Paphiopedilum sukhakulii faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the international orchid trade, with wild populations heavily exploited by commercial collectors. Habitat destruction through limestone quarrying and agricultural expansion has eliminated many historical sites across its limited range in northeastern Thailand. The species' extremely slow growth rate and specialized pollination requirements make recovery from population declines exceptionally difficult.
Habitat
This terrestrial orchid grows exclusively in limestone crevices and rocky outcrops in deciduous forests of northeastern Thailand, typically at elevations between 200-800 meters. It requires the specific microclimate conditions provided by limestone karst formations, including consistent moisture levels and filtered sunlight through the forest canopy.
