SPECIES: Corybas sulcatus — Grooved Helmet-orchid
CLASSIFICATION: Critically endangered
On Macquarie Island, growing in wet grassy areas on the higher parts of the island, the grooved helmet-orchid is known to be found growing. It’s one of two ‘helmet’ orchids endemic to Macquarie Island, off the coast of Tasmania.
The grooved helmet-orchid is a small orchid, growing to just two or three cm in height and has a mostly dark-red flower. A restricted distribution and small population have led to a decline of this orchid, and ongoing habitat degradation caused by grazing and the activity of seals threaten the few plants still surviving on the Island.
Photo: Australian Antarctic Program (RTBG)