The Fish and Wildlife Service proposed Endangered Species Act protections Wednesday for the ghost orchid, a swamp-dwelling plant put at risk by its own allure.
Urged on by a petition followed by a lawsuit, the federal agency announced its determination that the species warrants designation as endangered.
“Illegal collection or poaching is one of the primary, ongoing threats to ghost orchid populations throughout its range,” FWS stated, adding that “the ghost orchid is one of the most desirable species for collection due to its rarity, unusual growth form, and overall stunning appearance.”
The agency estimates the ghost orchid’s U.S. population has fallen to fewer than 1,000 plants, found in eight isolated locations in southwestern Florida. The orchid also inhabits one part of a Cuban national park.
