Trail-based distribution, abundance, and exploratory habitat suitability of Paphiopedilum ciliolare (Rchb. f.) Stein, and P. adductum Asher (Orchidaceae) in Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Philippines

A total of 577 visible specimens or clumps of two critically endangered Philippine lady's slipper orchids, Paphiopedilum ciliolare and P. adductum, were recorded along trails in Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary. The study found that montane forests supported the highest abundance of both species, with P. ciliolare occurring across all sampled sites while P. adductum showed a more restricted distribution. Exploratory habitat suitability models suggested that elevation and lower precipitation seasonality were key factors influencing their presence, though these models should be interpreted cautiously due to limited data. This research provides critical baseline information for long-term monitoring and conservation efforts for these threatened orchid species.

Ponce, A. G., Cabilar, J. L., Bation, L. B., Ambasan, R. M. B., & Cabrera, J. S. (2026). Trail-based distribution, abundance, and exploratory habitat suitability of Paphiopedilum ciliolare (Rchb. f.) Stein, and P. adductum Asher (Orchidaceae) in Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Philippines. Biodiversity Journal, 17(2), 201–216. https://doi.org/10.31396/biodiv.jour.2026.17.2.201.216