Nepenthes micramphora
About
This species is notable for its tiny pitchers, a characteristic reflected in its specific epithet. It is a climbing plant found only on the highland slopes of Mount Hamiguitan, and is part of an informal group with *N. abgracilis* and *N. cid* that share specific morphological traits.
Field notes
Morphology
The plant is a climbing species growing up to 2.5 m high, with a circular stem up to 3.5 mm in diameter. Leaves are lanceolate-elliptic, reaching 8 cm by 1 cm. Lower pitchers are narrowly ovate to cylindrical, measuring up to 4.1 cm by 1.6 cm, and feature a peristome up to 0.8 mm wide. Upper pitchers are larger, reaching 6.7 cm by 2 cm, and are generally infundibular. The lid measures up to 2 cm by 1.8 cm.
Distribution & habitat
Highland slopes of Mount Hamiguitan, Davao Oriental, in the extreme southeast of Mindanao island, Philippines. Its altitudinal range is 1,100 m to 1,635 m.
History & etymology
Formally described in 2009 by Volker Heinrich, Stewart McPherson, Thomas Gronemeyer, and Victor Amoroso. The epithet micramphora is derived from Greek mikros (small) and Latin amphora (urn), referencing the species' tiny pitchers.
Conservation
Currently considered 'not threatened' due to extensive populations on Mount Hamiguitan and controlled visitor access.
Habitat
- Altitude
- 1,100–1,635 m
- Altitude class
- intermediate
- Native to
- Philippines, Mindanao
- IUCN status
- Critically Endangered
Taxonomy
- Described
- 2009
- Authority
- V.B.Heinrich, S.McPherson, Gronem. & V.B.Amoroso
Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate