Brachionidium diaphanum

A 2001 expedition to the Yungas region observed a set of threats to the area that include selective commercial logging, burning of the tree line to clear land for grazing and an influx of subsistence farmers searching for land that could be cleared for agriculture (Macleod et al. 2005). This area has favourable climate and soils, which is very desirable for immigrating cultivators (Vasquez et al. 2003). These colonists once settled, carry out slash and burn agricultural practices, which damage the original ecosystem, allowing soil erosion and rapid nutrient depletion to occur (Parks Watch 2005). Another potential threat that the Yungas region faces is from the various reserves of minerals and oil within the region that have the potential to be mined (Vasquez et al. 2003). Two oil concessions have been granted within the Isiboro Secure National Park close to where this species is recorded to occur. The presence of such mineral reserves leads to an ever present threat that areas will be destroyed in their extraction (Parks Watch 2005). Seventy-one percent of the Isiboro national park is reported to shows signs of human disturbance and faces a set of pressures and threats (Saavedra and Daza 2004). A Parks Watch (2005) report on the Isiboro Secure National Park listed the main pressures on this park to be illegal logging, agriculture and cattle grazing. The Carrasco National Park is reported to face similar threats (Parks watch 2004) The Altamaci Natural Area where this species may occur had its protected area status removed in 2005 due to social and political difficulties (WWF 2013). Most orchid species require intact humid forests to survive. Those that are epiphytic, such as this species, require tree branches of a certain age for colonization (Vasquez et al. 2003). Although different orchids have different levels of sensitivity some can survive better in disturbed forest than others. More research needs to be carried out to see how sensitive this species is to disturbance. But all these threats have the potential to disturb the intact forest that may be required for the survival of this species.

This species is listed on Appendix 2 of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). There are no known conservation actions currently being undertaken to protect this species. This species may  occur within a protected area in the collection locality, such as the Carrasco or Isiboro National Parks or the Altamachi Natural Area. However, the Altamachi protected status was removed in 2005 (WWF 2013) and the nearby Isiboro Secure National Park has been categorized as vulnerable by Parks Watch (2005). The production of coca leaves and eradication campaigns has led to tensions in the area (Parks Watch 2005). This may make it more difficult for the National Parks to be effectively managed. However, since 2012 there have been some policy changes which may help to reduce some of the tension in this area (TNI/WOLA 2013). Currently the Yungas forests are quite well preserved (Vasquez et al. 2003). The high altitude areas of collection for this species may also afford some protection, as they may be less easily accessed and less suitable for cultivation. Future conservation action within the area may include working with the local people of the national park area, increasing awareness, attempting to reduce any harmful practices and encouraging co-operative working with the national park authorities. It is recommended that, if possible, seeds are stored as part of ex-situ conservation measures.