Orchid Conservation and Biology

Orchids are unique among plants for their specialization and survival strategies. Unlike generalists, orchids have adapted to specific habitats, relying on fungi for nutrients and deceiving pollinators for reproduction. They thrive in diverse environments, from barren rocks to tropical forests, resulting in over 25,000 species. Historically, orchids were highly sought after, leading to habitat destruction. Today, conservation efforts are crucial to protect these species from extinction, with global initiatives focusing on habitat preservation and restoration.

What is a key characteristic of orchids that allows them to thrive globally?

• They are generalists.

• They are specialists.

• They produce their own sugar.

• They grow in rich soil.

How do orchid seedlings obtain nutrients?

• By tricking fungi into feeding them.

• By photosynthesis from the start.

• By absorbing nutrients from the soil.

• By producing their own sugar.

What is a unique pollination strategy used by some orchids?

• Mimicking the appearance of other flowers.

• Offering nectar to pollinators.

• Producing a strong fragrance.

• Providing a habitat for insects.

Why do most orchids choose inhospitable locations to grow?

• To avoid competition for resources.

• To grow faster.

• To access more sunlight.

• To find more pollinators.

What was the Orchid Delirium?

• A craze for collecting rare orchids.

• A scientific study of orchid species.

• A time when orchids were used in medicine.

• A period of intense orchid conservation.

What is a current threat to orchid species?

• Excessive sunlight exposure.

• Deforestation and habitat loss.

• Overwatering by gardeners.

• Lack of pollinators.

How are conservationists in Ecuador helping to protect orchids?

• By planting them in urban areas.

• By selling them on the black market.

• By establishing rainforest reserves.

• By breeding them in labs.

What is a method used in the US to conserve rare orchid species?

• Using them in traditional medicine.

• Selling them to collectors.

• Breeding them in the wild.

• Breeding them in labs and replanting.

What role do Australian citizens play in orchid conservation?

• They build fences to protect orchids.

• They collect orchids for research.

• They sell orchids to fund conservation.

• They plant orchids in urban gardens.

What is the focus of the Orchid Specialist Group of the IUCN?

• To sell orchids globally.

• To study orchid diseases.

• To breed new orchid species.

• To protect and restore orchids and their habitats.