Design of an orchid conservation trail in Ixtaczoquitlán, Veracruz, Mexico

Abstract

Objective: To raise awareness about the ecological importance of orchids and to promote the species commercialized by a company focused on their production through the design of a trail.

Design/Methodology/Approach: A diagnosis of the plot was carried out to identify its characteristics and points of interest. A trail was designed to connect the most outstanding points. Native trees, which are the habitat of orchids, were subsequently planted to establish the outdoor collections.

Results: The appeal of the place and the established phorophytes were taken into consideration to design the trail. Likewise, recommendations were made on what species of orchids should be planted in each station along the trail.

Study Limitations/Implications: Evaluating visitor experience is pending. The trail lacks infrastructure for people with disabilities. The trail is located in an area subjected to anthropization and it will take several years before orchids can be established on the trees planted in July 2023.

Findings/Conclusions: Trails are a useful tool to promote the conservation of native orchids; however, under anthropization conditions, it should be subjected to a systematized implementation to provide the climate and phorophyte conditions necessary for the survival of orchids.