Calanthe lancilabris

The nearby Baliem valley has one of the highest rural population densities in Papua (Gordon 2010) and the traditional farming system is based on the cultivation of sweet potato both in the valley floor and uplands (Mahalaya 2010). Satellite imagery shows patchy forest clearance for cultivation. Firewood is sold in the nearby markets of Wamena, which is a growing population centre, where roads and access are increasing. In nearby forests tree felling has increased and lower level forests started to recede (Gordon 2010). The process of logging, particularly clear felling, removes the shade that Calanthe species require and they are known to rapidly desiccate and die (Clayton and Cribb 2013). It is suspected that these threats may have an impact on the forests where this species was recorded, although further studies are needed to confirm the specific threats for this species.

This orchid is not known to be conserved within any protected area but has been recorded close to the Lorentz National Park, a 2.35 million ha protected area, which is the largest in South-East Asia and incorporates a continuous ecological transect from mountain peaks to the coast (UNESCO 2017) and it is possible that it may be found within it. It is not known to be conserved ex situ (BGCI 2017). Surveys are needed to provide information about the current distribution, population and habitat status. Further studies will be needed to understand its life history, ecology and any specific threats to determine if any targeted conservation measures or monitoring are required.