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
Dracula vespertilio
Bat Orchid
(Reichenbach f.) Luer
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
An epiphytic orchid known for its unique flowers that resemble a bat in flight. It features tufted, slender leaves without pseudobulbs, and distinct, downfacing blossoms with long tail-like extensions on the sepals, a yellowish-white background, and dark maroon spotting.
Added by
Anonymous Curator
Reviewed by
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.Dracula
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.(Reichenbach f.) Luer
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
Native to the dense, wet cloud forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Central America. It thrives in high-altitude environments between 1000 and 2000 meters, preferring extreme humidity, cool temperatures, and deeply shaded conditions on lower tree trunks.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
Relies entirely on constant air movement and water dripping to absorb ambient elements through its delicate root systems, showing no tolerance to stagnant water or bone-dry substrates.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)
15.0 - 30.0 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
Lacks pseudobulbs entirely, meaning the plant has adapted to constant, unbroken cloud forest moisture to prevent dehydration through its thin leaves.
The lip (labellum) mimicking the gills of a fungus, structurally designed to visually and chemically attract specialized fungus gnats for pollination.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Highly sensitive to microclimate alterations; even minor logging or temperature rises lead to rapid drying and localized extinction.
Illegal poaching by specialized collectors due to its bizarre morphology and rarity in international botanical markets.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
The flower grows downward, frequently pushing through the loose moss under the plant mass, which is why it requires open slatted baskets rather than traditional pots in cultivation.