Indicative distribution
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas.
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click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Bulbophyllum globuliforme
Profile last updated:
07 Aug 2024
Description
Hoop Pine Orchid is a tiny orchid that grows as an epiphyte on the bark of trees. It has a slender creeping root along which green, globular bulb-like stems grow close together, forming chains or mats. The plant is difficult to see, and can be mistaken for moss or lichen, since the stems are only 1 – 2 mm in diameter. The flowers are small, about 3 mm across, and are white or pale yellow, sometimes with faint purple or crimson colouring.
Distribution
Found almost exclusively in the McPherson Range between NSW and Queensland, at altitudes between 300 and 600 m. It also occurs at Maleny and Noosa in south-east Queensland.
Habitat and ecology
- Grows on Hoop Pines (Araucaria cunninghamii) in upland subtropical rainforest.
- It is usually found on the upper trunk and branches of the Hoop Pines which protrude from the general rainforest canopy.
- The climate in such situations is cool and wet.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Logging of Hoop Pine host-trees.
- Damage to host trees by roadworks.
- Collection or damage by orchid enthusiasts.
- Insufficient understanding of distribution and/or occurrence
- Insufficient understanding of threatening process including climate change associated reductions in cloud cover
Recovery strategies
A Saving Our Species conservation project is currently being developed for this species and will be available soon. For information on how you can contribute to this species' recovery, see the Activities to assist this species section below.
Activities to assist this species
- Appreciate native orchids by viewing and photographing but leave them in the wild.
- Protect areas of upland Hoop Pine rainforest from logging or roadworks.
- Notify the OEH of new records of Hoop Pine Orchid.
Information sources
- Bishop, T. (2000) Field Guide to the Orchids of New South Wales and Victoria. (New South Wales University Press, Sydney)
- Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW (2010) Border Ranges Rainforest Biodiversity Management Plan - NSW & Queensland. (DECCW NSW, Sydney)
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) Threatened Species of the Upper North Coast of NSW: Flora. (NSW NPWS, Coffs Harbour)
- Weston, P.H. and Hill, K.D. (1993) Bulbophyllum. Pp 233-6 in Harden, G.J. (ed.) Flora of New South Wales. Volume 4. (New South Wales University Press, Sydney)
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