PRECIOUS ORCHIDS AND MEDICINAL PLANTS
– Paphiopedilum helenae Aver. – Critically Endangered (CR) in IUCN Redlist
Paphiopedilum helenae Aver. is one of the smallest slipper orchids among paphiopedilums. The combination of surprisingly miniature plants with large yellow flowers makes Paphiopedilum helenae being collected for ornamental purposes and commercial use.
Threats: Just like other paphiopedilums, this slipper orchid species has been seriously exploited in most of its natural range that leads to the significant decrease of population. The previous study estimated that the number of mature individuals has reduced 85-90% over the last decade. The decline is continuing and there is a projected decline of 80-90% of remaining individuals in the next 25 years.
What CCD is doing: Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) conducted a field survey to assess distribution and identify threats to the P. helenae population in Trung Khanh district of Cao Bang province. CCD is continuing to conduct further field surveys on population and especially collecting and trade status of paphiopedilums to gain comprehensive information to propose proper protection and recovery measures in their distribution areas. Research and conservation of endangered orchids is part of the Plant Conservation Programme, which CCD is implementing in many regions of the country.