CONSERVATION STATUS OF WILD ORCHIDS (Orchidaceae)

Abstract

In countries with richness of orchid species, located between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, such as México, the different forms of exploitation in the wild have raised the alarm of extinction. México’s Mountain cloud forest represent 1 % of the national territory, they concentrate close to 60 % of the known species of orchids, and are the most threatened biome. The illegal traffic of orchids for their commerce is a worldwide crime; while legal trade founded in scientific knowledge, such as biotechnology, genetic improvement and horticulture, advances discreetly. In México, because of all
the problems of illegal extraction of orchids and deterioration of natural habitats, all forms of orchid conservation could be valid and necessary. Diffusion of science regarding orchids must be directed to the whole society, for empowerment through knowledge may constitute an effective way for their conservation.