PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN NEInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Not Evaluated — not yet assessed against the IUCN Red List criteria.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Masdevallia rolfeana
Rolfe's Masdevallia
Kraenzl.
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A small, tufted epiphytic orchid species without pseudobulbs, featuring erect, leathery leaves. It produces solitary, striking dark brownish-red to crimson flowers on short stalks, known for their fleshy texture, fused sepals forming a tube, and a distinct, honey-like fragrance.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Liliopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Asparagales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Orchidaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Masdevallia
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Kraenzl.
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Unknown
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Endemic to the wet cloud forests of Costa Rica and western Panama. It grows as an epiphyte on moss-laden branches in the cool, perpetually misty conditions of lower montane forests, primarily at elevations ranging from 1100 to 2100 meters.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
Grows anchored by a dense network of thin roots onto mossy branches. It remains stationary, absorbing water almost instantly from fog condensation and light rains passing through the canopy.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
10.0 - 20.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Thickened, leathery leaves designed to tolerate slight fluctuating water availability in the canopy, balancing the complete absence of water-storing pseudobulbs.
Produces an intense, sweet, honey-like scent to lure small drosophilid and sciarid flies inside the fused sepal tube for deceptive pollination.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Climate change and global warming, which raise the cloud line in montane zones, reducing the vital mist and ambient humidity required for its survival.
Habitat loss from localized conversion of cloud forests into pastures and agricultural developments, fracturing the continuous canopy.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
Despite its vivid red color which usually implies bird pollination, its primary pollinators are tiny flies attracted to the flower's specific olfactory compound and chemical mimicry.