Science is Fun Fridays!
There are over 25,000 species of orchids, which is more than mammals, birds, and reptiles combined.
Half of those are threatened with extinction, and all are protected under international law.
Threats include habitat destruction and climate change, but also unsustainable harvest for horticulture, food, or medicine. The Chinese continue to use dried dendrobium to help treat cancer, strengthen the immune system, and improve eyesight.
The bee orchid is an example of sexually deceptive pollination, attracting male bees through female impersonation, not only in appearance, but in scent as well. The flower emits allomones which mimic those of the female.
The warty hammer orchid also plays this game.
Because orchids are the most evolved of all flowering plants, they are very site-specific and require optimum conditions to thrive in a given area. Their presence is a good indicator of a healthy, functioning ecosystem.
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