An autoecological study of Cephalantera rubra in Norway | An autoecological study of Cephalantera rubra in Norway

Red helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) is an endangered orchid in Norway. The Norwegian populations are part of the northernmost distribution of red helleborine and has been given a prioritized status in Norway, to ensure protection of the species. This status implies protection not only of the species, but also its ecological functional area. While the habitat of red helleborine is described in broad terms by many, a narrower description is needed. Seven known locations were investigated to more accurately describe habitat preferences of red helleborine in Norway, and investigate the main sources of variation in the lime-rich forests where red helleborine is found. Each location was mapped with the Norwegian EcoSyst implementation “Nature in Norway”, and vascular plant species, mosses and lichens recorded in 54 one square metre plots several environmental variables. GNMDS and DCA ordination was used in parallel to identify important gradients in red helleborines habitat.

Red helleborine (Cephalanthera rubra) is an endangered orchid in Norway. The Norwegian populations are part of the northernmost distribution of red helleborine and has been given a prioritized status in Norway, to ensure protection of the species. This status implies protection not only of the species, but also its ecological functional area. While the habitat of red helleborine is described in broad terms by many, a narrower description is needed. Seven known locations were investigated to more accurately describe habitat preferences of red helleborine in Norway, and investigate the main sources of variation in the lime-rich forests where red helleborine is found. Each location was mapped with the Norwegian EcoSyst implementation “Nature in Norway”, and vascular plant species, mosses and lichens recorded in 54 one square metre plots several environmental variables. GNMDS and DCA ordination was used in parallel to identify important gradients in red helleborines habitat.