An unexpected new record of the Mediterranean orchid, Ophrys bertolonii (Orchidaceae) in Central Europe

Abstract

One flowering specimen of Ophrys bertolonii (s. str.) — a plant with a Circum-Adriatic distribution and hitherto unknown in other regions — was found on 7th May 2010 in the vicinity of Kunadacs (Central Hungary; N 47°00′ E 19°17′). The nearest known populations of this Mediterranean plant inhabit the Adriatic coast (ca. 450 km away) in Croatia, therefore this new occurrence represents a significant long distance dispersal event. The circumstances of the occurrence argue against introduction, but we can not decide now whether this new appearance is temporary or permanent. The permanent establishment of this strictly entomophilous plant requires the presence of its specific pollinator in the close neighbourhood of the habitat. However, no pollination was observed on the three flowers of the plant until 9th May, and one day later the stem had disappeared most likely due to grazing. Whatever the long-term fate of the plant is, this discovery represents a significant long distance (jump) dispersal event, and testifies to the dispersal ability of Ophrys species. Additionally, the appearance of a mature Adriatic plant in Central Europe fits well into the currently observed, climate change driven northward expansion of European orchids, therefore this finding most likely reflects a growing Mediterranean-like climatic influence in the region.