Taxonomic identity and ecological status of two rare orchids from southern western ghats, india

Aravindhan V Aravindhan V,Rajendran A Rajendran A

doi:10.26524/krj.2021.15

Abstract

An assessment has been made to identify the rare, endemic and threatened species in the Velliangiri hills of Southern Western Ghats, India. During field explorations, two rare species of terrestrial saprophytic orchids were collected. On critical appraisal and authentication of herbarium specimens, they were identified as Aphyllorchis montana Rchb. f. and Epipogium roseum (D. Don) Lindl. The present paper deals with their correct taxonomic identity, distribution and ecological status.

Highlights

Orchidaceae is one of the most ecologically and morphologically diverse families of flowering plants
On critical appraisal and authentication of herbarium specimens, they were identified as Aphyllorchis montana Rchb. f. and Epipogium roseum
The Indian subcontinent has diverse climatic regimes, forest types and habitat conditions that provide a favourable environment for accommodating diverse life forms and species [2]

Summary

Introduction

Orchidaceae is one of the most ecologically and morphologically diverse families of flowering plants. Velliangiri hills of Southern Western Ghats, India. Two rare species of terrestrial saprophytic orchids were collected. On critical appraisal and authentication of herbarium specimens, they were identified as Aphyllorchis montana Rchb.

Results

Conclusion