Search

Orchidaceae are one of the two largest families of flowering plants, new orchid genera are being described at a rate of about 13 per year. Bletilla sinensis is one of five species in the Bletilla. It has high medicinal value and can promote blood circulation and anti-inflammation. However, its phylogenetic status is controversial. In this study, the chloroplast genes of B. sinensis were sequenced and assembled, and download 73 complete chloroplast genes of orchid plants from NCBI to construct a molecular evolutionary tree, which provided new clues for the classification of B. sinensis. The results showed that the length of chloroplast genes was 156,941 bp, the GC content was 37.12%, and it contained 139 genes. The results of the molecular evolutionary tree show that the genus Bletilla is a single branch and has an independent evolutionary status. However, our sample is not in the same branch as the Bletilla, indicating that this sample may have an independent and effective taxonomic status. Based on the chloroplast genome structure and composition of this species, it also supports its independent taxonomic status from the Bletilla. Judging from the genetic distance between genera of Orchidaceae, the genetic distance between this sample and any other genera is greater than 0.02, which is greater than the genetic distance between the other two identified genera. In addition, the integration of morphological data from the Flora of China found that there are certain differences in morphology from other species of the genus Bletilla. Therefore, the above results suggest that this group should be a new genus of Orchidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among flowering plants, self‐incompatibility is considered the most efficient system for avoiding self‐fertilization. However, many self‐incompatible plants have also evolved floral mechanisms to reduce sexual conflict. In China, some studies of Bulbophyllum have been reported to be self‐incompatible and no fruit sets. However, we have observed relatively high fruit sets in Bulbophyllum funingense. Therefore, we speculated that if B. funingense is also self‐incompatible, and it might present a floral mechanism to avoid sexual conflict. Natural fruit sets, pollinia removal and deposition rates were determined and breeding system was tested in a hand‐pollination experiment. The pollination process and visiting frequency of pollinators and their behavior after escape from access were observed and recorded. Floral traits associated with pollination and pollinator size were measured. B. funingense was completely self‐incompatible, the fruit sets of cross‐pollination in 2 years were all more than 70%, and the natural fruit sets for 2 years were 1.70 ± 4.31% and 6.63 ± 5.29%, respectively. B. funingense did not produce strong odor or nectar, but produced a kind of secretions from its labellum that attracted flies. Calliphora vicina (Calliphoridae) was its only effective pollinator. When C. vicina licked the secretions, they were stuck in the access for a long time. Thus, when they escaped from access, they almost always flew quickly away from the inflorescence removing pollinia most of the times. In B. funingense, a floral mechanism improves pollinia transfer efficiency, reduces pollinia waste, promotes pollination success, reduces the incidence of self‐pollination, and avoids sexual conflict to a certain extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on field surveys in China conducted from 2021 to 2023, three new records of Bulbophyllum are reported: B. cornu-cervi, B. nodosum, and B. piluliferum. Descriptions and illustrations for diagnostic characters are provided for those species, along with information on their types. In addition, four names, e.g., B. sinhoënse, B. contortum, B. huangshanense and B. tengchongense, are reduced to the synonymy based on critical examinations of literature surveys, living plants in the field, and herbarium specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Uncifera motuoensis (Orchidaceae: Epidedroideae: Aeridinae) from Xizang Autonomous Region, China is described and illustrated with detailed photos and scientific illustration. Detailed morphological comparisons indicate that U. motouensis is similar to U. obtusifolia, but differs in having entire mid-lobe of lip, narrower leaf blade and wider pollinarium stipe. For the identification, a key to the known seven species of Uncifera is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuwiedia singapureana is a rare and endangered plant of the Apostasioideae subfamily. The Apostasioideae subfamily has a unique evolutionary status, as it is considered to be the most primitive group forming the base of the Orchidaceae evolutionary tree. Therefore, N. singapureana has high scientific research and conservation value. The endophytic fungal communities associated with orchids are rich and diverse, but few studies have investigated the endophytic fungi of Neuwiedia orchid plants. In the present study, the aim was to examine the endophytic fungal community structures associated with wild N. singapureana rhizomes and normal roots in the ground and with bare prop roots in the air at two sampling sites in China. High-throughput sequencing of nuclear ribosomal DNA fragments of the internal transcribed spacer regions was conducted, and cultivable methods were adopted. A total of 2161 endophytic fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained at a 97% sequence similarity threshold. The endophytic fungal diversity differed among the samples but not significantly. There were many more non-mycorrhizal endophytic fungal than orchid mycorrhizal (OM) fungal species detected in the N. singapureana orchid, about 98.33% OTUs of non-mycorrhizal fungi contrasting with 1.67% OTUs of potential orchid mycorrhizal fungi, among which Ceratobasidiaceae, Russulaceae, and Thelephoraceae were the dominant orchid mycorrhizal fungi. One culturable OM fungal Epulorhiza sp. isolated from the rhizome was capable of significantly promoting the seed germination and seedling growth of Dendrobium officinale and Epidendrum secundum orchids, respectively, with different efficiencies. These endophytic fungal strains with growth-promoting functions will provide materials for orchid conservation and for the study of the mechanisms underlying orchid symbiotic associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrochilus sinensis is a beautiful epiphytic orchid with high ornamental value. In this study, the first complete chloroplast genome sequence of G. sinensis was determined using next-generation sequencing (NGS). The de novo assembled chloroplast genome was 148,020 bp in length, including a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs; 25,987 bp), a small single-copy region (SSC; 11,045 bp), and a large single-copy region (LSC; 85,001 bp). The chloroplast genome encodes 109 unique genes, including 75 protein-coding genes (PCGs), 30 tRNA genes, and four rRNA genes. The total GC content of the chloroplast genome was 36.8%. The phylogenetic analysis showed a close relationship between G. sinensis and G. formosanus species. The complete chloroplast genome provides fundamental information for genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships in Gastrochilus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orchid family has 200,000 species and 700 genera, and it is found worldwide in the tropics and subtropics. In China, there are 1247 species and subspecies of orchids belonging to the Orchidaceae family. Orchidaceae is one of the most diverse plant families in the world, known for their lush look, remarkable ecological tolerance, and capability for reproduction. It has significant decorative and therapeutic value. In terms of evolution, the orchid family is one of the more complicated groups, but up until now, little has been known about its affinities. This study examined the properties of 19 chloroplast (cp) genomes, of which 11 had previously been published and nine had only recently been revealed. Following that, topics such as analysis of selection pressure, codon usage, amino acid frequencies, repeated sequences, and reverse repeat contraction and expansion are covered. The Orchidaceae share similar cp chromosomal characteristics, and we have conducted a preliminary analysis of their evolutionary connections. The cp genome of this family has a typical tepartite structure and a high degree of consistency across species. Platanthera urceolata with more tandem repeats of the cp genome. Similar cp chromosomal traits can be seen in the orchidaceae. Galearis roborowskyi, Neottianthe cucullata, Neottianthe monophylla, Platanthera urceolata and Ponerorchis compacta are the closest cousins, according to phylogenetic study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Cylindrolobus (Orchidaceae), C. gaoligongensis from the Gaoligong Mountain, northwestern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to C. arunachalensis and C. gloensis, but can be distinguished from them by having orange to pink and triangular‐ovate lip mid‐lobe with mucronate apex, front margin of lateral lobes yellow to white and with short glandular hairs gradually transitioning to dense long hairs, two central calli connected to a keel toward mid‐lobe in the disk, and three rows of white long hairs at the base of the disk. Additionally, an improved description and illustration of the closely related species C. arunachalensis, is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollinators mediate interspecific and intraspecific plant–plant indirect interactions (competition vs. facilitation) via density-dependent processes, potentially shaping the dynamics of plant communities. However, it is still unclear which ecological drivers regulate density-dependent patterns, including scale, pollination niches (i.e., the main pollinator functional group) and floral attractiveness to pollinators. In this study, we conducted three-year field observations in Hengduan Mountains of southwest China. By gathering data for more than 100 animal-pollinated plant species, we quantified the effect (positive vs. negative) of conspecific and heterospecific flower density on pollination at two scales: plot-level (4 m2) and site-level (100–5000 m2). Then, we investigated how pollination niches and floral attractiveness to pollinators (estimated here as average per-flower visitation rates) modulated density-dependent pollination interactions. Pollinator visitation depended on conspecific and heterospecific flower density, with rare plants subjected to interspecific competition at the plot-level and interspecific facilitation at the site-level. Such interspecific competition at the plot-level was stronger for plants pollinated by diverse insects, while interspecific facilitation at the site-level was stronger for bee-pollinated plants. Moreover, we also found stronger positive conspecific density-dependence for plants with lower floral attractiveness at the site-level, meaning that they become more frequently visited when abundant. Our study indicates that the role of pollination in maintaining rare plants and plant diversity depends on the balance of density-dependent processes in species-rich communities. We show here that such balance is modulated by scale, pollination niches and floral attractiveness to pollinators, indicating the context-dependency of diversity maintenance mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Five new orchid species from southwestern China's Yunnan Province and the Tibetan Autonomous Region, Neottia lihengiae, Neottia chawalongensis, Papilionanthe motuoensis, Gastrochilus lihengiae, and Gastrochilus bernhardtianus, are described and illustrated. To confirm their identities, and to resolve phylogenetic relationships, we sequenced the complete plastomes of these taxa with their congeneric species, adding new plastomes of three Neottia species, two Papilionanthe species and nine Gastrochilus species. Combined with published plastid sequences, our well-resolved phylogeny supported the alliance of N. lihengiae with the the N. grandiflora + N. pinetorum clade. Neottia chawalongensis is now sister to N. alternifolia, while P. motuoensis is closely related to P. subulata + P. teres. Conversely, phylogenetic analyses based on complete plastomes and plastid sequences showed inconsistent relationships among taxa in the genus Gastrochilus, but the two new species, G. lihengiae and G. bernhardtianus were supported by all datasets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thrixspermum taeniophyllum is described as a new orchid species from Wenchuan County, Sichuan Province of southwest China. It is morphologically similar to T. japonicum, but it differs from the latter in having branched stems, slightly fleshy strapshaped leaves, longer inflorescences with 3–6 flowers and a capitate gynandrium with a lip-shaped mouth opening. Its species status is also supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses, based on nuclear ribosome internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and three chloroplast DNA fragments (matK, psbA-trnH and trnL-F), which showed distinct systematic boundaries from the most morphologically similar T. japonicum and their morphological relatives T. saruwatarii and T. pygmaeum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Genetic diversity, genetic structure, and gene flow in plant populations and their influencing factors are important in conservation biology. Cypripedium macranthos is one of the few wild orchids with high ornamental value in northern China. However, over the past decade, excessive collection, trading, tourism development, habitat fragmentation, deceptive pollination, and seed germination difficulties have all caused a sharp decline in the number of C. macranthos individuals and its population. In order to propose a scientific and effective conservation strategy, the genetic diversity, genetic structure and gene flow of the current CM population are urgent scientific issues to be clarified. Results: Here, 99 individuals of C. macranthos from north and northeast China were analyzed to evaluate the genetic diversity, gene flow among populations, and genetic structure by genotyping-by-sequencing. More than 68.44 Gb high-quality clean reads and 41,154 SNPs were obtained. Our data based on bioinformatics methods revealed that C. macranthos has lower genetic diversity, high levels of historical gene flow, and moderate-to-high genetic differentiation between populations. The gene migration model revealed that the direction of gene flow was mainly from northeast populations to north populations in China. The results of genetic structure analysis showed that 11 C. macranthos populations can be considered as two groups, and further divided into four subgroups. Moreover, the Mantel test detected no significant "Isolation by Distance" between populations. Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that the present genetic diversity and genetic structure of C. macranthos populations were mainly caused by biological characteristics, human interference, habitat fragmentation, and restricted gene flow. Finally, constructive measures, which can provide a basis for the proposal of conservation strategies, have been suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blepharoglossum is a rare orchid genus of the Malaxidinae primarily distributed in tropical Pacific islands, with several species occurring in the Taiwan and Hainan Islands of China. Currently, the monophyletic status of Blepharoglossum has been challenged, and the phylogenetic relationships among its allied groups have remained unresolved with traditional DNA markers. In this study, we initially sequenced and annotated the chloroplast (cp) genomes of two Blepharoglossum species, Blepharoglossum elegans (Lindl.) L. Li and Blepharoglossum grossum (Rchb.f.) L. Li. These cp genomes of Blepharoglossum share the typical quadripartite and circular structure. Each of the genomes encodes a total of 133 functional genes, including 87 protein-coding genes (CDS), 38 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. By comparing the sequence differences between these two cp genomes, it was found that they are relatively conserved in terms of overall gene content and gene arrangement. However, a total of 684 SNPs and 2664 indels were still identified, with ycf1, clpP, and trnK-UUU protein-coding genes having the highest number of SNPs and indels. In further comparative analyses among the six cp genomes in Malaxidinae, significant sequence divergences were identified in the intergenic regions, namely rps16–trnQ-UUG, trnS-GCU–trnG-GCC, rpoB–trnC-GCA, trnE-UUC–trnT-GGU, trnF-GAA–trnV-UAC, atpB–rbcL, petA–psbJ, psbE–petL, psbB–psbT, trnN-GUU–rpl32, trnV-GAC–rps7, and rps7–trnL-CAA, and five coding regions, including matK, and rpoC2, ycf1, and two ycf2 genes. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Blepharoglossum and Oberonia form a highly supported sister group relationship. Our results are consistent with previous studies and present increased resolution among major clades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To explore the fungal community diversity in the roots of Nervilia fordii as well as in the root-associated soil, we collected the terrestrial orchids grown in Daxin(DX)County and Longzhou(LZ)County of the karst areas in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China as well as the root-associated soil, respectively. We analyzed the composition of fungal communities in the roots and the root-associated soil by taking the Illumina MiSeq high-throughput sequencing technology. The results were as follows:(1)The fungal diversity in the roots and root-associated soil of DX and LZ were very rich. In addition, the diversity of fungi in root-associated soil was higher than that in roots, and the fungal diversity in the taproot was higher than that in walking stem.(2)A total of 118 040 valid sequences and 207 operational taxonomic unites(OTUs)were obtained. The BLAST results showed that these OUTs involved 8 phyla, 19 classes, 42 orders, 86 families and 123 genera.(3)The dominant fungal communities in roots of two areas(DX and LZ)both were Basidiomycota including Tulasnellaceae, Trimorphomycetaceae, Ceratobasidiaceae and Malasseziaceae as well as Marasmiaceae. Among them, Tulasnellaceae(75%)and Epulorhiza(Sexual type: Tulasnella)(56%)were the dominant family and genus, respectively. However, Fusarium was the dominant fungal genus in the root-associated soil. In conclusion, there is a significant difference in fungal communities between roots and root-associated soil, but there is some common OTUs. More importantly, our results also suggest that these fungi species belonging to Epulorhiza may play an important effect on the seed germination and seedling growth of Nervilia fordii grown in the karst area of Guangxi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry is an economically important crop for sericulture in China. Mulberry plantations are shifting inland, where they face high salinity. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) reportedly enhance mulberry's tolerance to salinity. Here, we assessed if additional adaptive advantages against salinity are provided by sex differences beyond those provided by mycorrhizal symbiosis. In a pot experiment, male and monoecious plants were exposed to three salinity regimes (0, 50, and 200 mM NaCl) and two mycorrhiza-suppressed conditions (with or without benomyl application) for more than 16 months. We noticed that salinity alone significantly decreased the mycorrhizal colonization rate, salinity tolerance, K+ concentrations, and the ionic ratios of all plants. Mycorrhizal association mildly ameliorated the salt-induced detrimental effects, especially for monoecious plants, and sex-specific responses were observed. Meanwhile, both sexes had adopted different strategies to enhance their salinity resistance. Briefly, mycorrhizal monoecious plants exhibited a higher net photosynthetic rate and lower translocation of Na+ from root to shoot compared with mycorrhizal males under saline conditions. Their salt tolerance was probably due to the Ca2+/Na+ in roots. In comparison, male plants exhibited lower Na+ acquisition, more Na+ translocated from root to shoot, higher root biomass allocation, and higher N concentrations under harsh saline conditions, and their salt tolerance was mainly related to the K+/Na+ in their shoots. In conclusion, our results highlight that AMF could be a promising candidate for improving plant performance under highest salinity, especially for monoecious plants. Cultivators must be mindful of applying fungicides, such as benomyl, in saline areas. • There were sex-specific differences between mycorrhizal male and monoecious mulberry plants. • Both sexes of mulberry plants adopt different strategies to enhance salinity tolerance. • Monoecious plants benefited more from fungal symbiosis than males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrodia bawanglingensis, a new species of Orchidaceae from Hainan Island, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to G. theana, G. albidoides and G. albida with dwarf habits, scarcely opening flowers, elongated fruit stems, curved and fleshy perianth tubes and similar columns and lips, but can be easily distinguished from them by having a pair of lateral wings bent outwards at the apex of the column and lateral wings with acuminate tips lower than the anther. According to the IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, the new species is assessed as Endangered (EN). The plastome of G. bawanglingensis is greatly reduced and reconfigured with approximately 30876 bp in size and 25.36% in GC content. Morphological characteristics and molecular phylogenetic results based on chloroplast gene sequences support the recognition of G. bawanglingensis as a new species within Gastrodia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the botanical explorations in Eastern Himalaya region of Xizang in China during the period 2020 to 2021, seven orchid species, Bulbophyllum gamblei, B. trongsaense, Dendrolirium ferrugineum, Taeniophyllum javanicum, Nervilia macroglossa, Trachoma rhopalorrhachis and Uncifera lancifolia, are reported as new records for China. Trachoma Garay is a newly recorded genus in China. Detailed descriptions and photographic illustrations of each species are provided in this paper to facilitate identification. Additionally, B. xizangense has been revised as a synonym for B. linzhiense. Further, a new combination is made in accordance with current orchid taxonomy, Dendrolirium pachyphylla (≡Pinalia pachyphylla). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new orchid species, Hemipilia avisoides, is described from Songpan County and Maoxian County, Sichuan Province, China. Morphologically, H. avisoides is most similar to H. hui, but can be distinguished by the combination of its involute middle lip lobe that is smaller than the lateral lobes, floral bracts that are 5 mm long and are always shorter than the ovary, a leaf that is appressed to the substrate and is adaxially green with white lines along 7-9 principal veins and the subterranean stem with a solitary sheath at its base. The floral morphology of H. avisoides is presented by utilising in vivo micro-CT scanning and 3D visualisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Danxiaorchis mangdangshanensis, a new mycoheterotrophic species from Fujian Province, China, is described and illustrated. The new species is morphologically similar to D. singchiana, but its callus of labellum is a less distinctive Y-shape with three auricles on the apex, four pollinia that are narrowly elliptic in shape and equal in size, and it lacks fine roots. The plastome of D. mangdangshanensis is highly degraded. Phylogenetic analyses distinguished D. mangdangshanensis from its congeners, D. singchiana and D. yangii, with strong support based on nrITS + matK and plastomes, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The compatibility of mycorrhizal fungi with the early growth stage of orchids is essential for their growth. In this study, the compatibility and promotion effects of 14 Tulasnella strains from different hosts were studied by co-culturing them with the protocorms of Dendrobium crepidatum, which has high ornamental and economic value in China. The ITS–LSU–SSU–TEF combined sequence analysis divided the 14 strains into three clades belonging to Tulasnella calospora (clades A and B) and Tulasnella asymmetrica (clade C). All the strains were compatible with D. crepidatum protocorms within 90 d of the co-culture. Strain T12 in Clade A had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) effect on the biomass and morphology of D. crepidatum, and strain T13 in Clade C had a significantly lower (p < 0.05) effect than the other strains. Through morphological principal component analysis, we constructed a hierarchical cluster analysis tree, which was consistent with the phylogenetic tree of these 14 strains at the clade level. Orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis showed that these strains have an important effect on the plant height, root number, and length of D. crepidatum. The findings of this study will contribute to the identification of Tulasnella strains, conservation of D. crepidatum resources, and commercial utilization of mycorrhizal technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new orchid species, Liparis macrosepala, is illustrated and described from Yunnan Province, China, based on morphological and molecular analyses. This plant is characterised by the ovoid-fusiform, slightly compressed pseudobulbs with 4 or 5 leaves with slightly crisped margins on their apical half, dorsal sepal heart-shaped, lip with a bituberculate basal callus and a thickened folded lateral lobe on each side, centrally with one cavity with slightly raised margins, the column with a single pair of broadly triangular, obtuse wings. Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference analyses of combined nrITS and plastid matK DNA sequences place this species in section Cestichis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To understand the distribution of biodiversity and its determinants, particularly that of ecologically sensitive ones, has long been intriguing to the science community and will help formulate conservation strategies under future climate changes. To this end, we conducted extensive field surveys on the distribution of orchid flora in the Beipan River Basin in Guizhou Province, which is one of the biodiversity conservation priorities in China. The data we acquired, together with those published previously, were converted into orchid species richness for each of the 3 km × 3 km grid cells covering the study region. Redundancy analysis (RDA) and geographically weighted regression (GWR) were then applied to determine which of the 30 environmental factors are potentially critical for the spatial distribution of orchid flora we have observed. Despite a moderate spatial extent, we found that the Beipan River Basin harbors about 249 native orchid species belonging to 74 genera, equivalent to 14.5% of orchid flora of China. Orchid species richness in this area follows a descending gradient from the southeast to the northwest, 70.41% of its variation among grid cells can be explained by environmental factors and spatial variables, and spatial variables accounted for 63.90% of the spatial variation of orchid distribution, indicating that spatial variables played a dominant role in the distribution of wild Orchidaceae species richness. In addition, the main environmental driver is the mean temperature of the wettest quarter. Our study provides a good example for revealing the main drivers of orchid distribution characteristics and has a certain reference value for the development of orchid conservation strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mycoheterotrophy is a unique survival strategy adapted to dense forests and has attracted biologists' attention for centuries. However, its evolutionary origin and related plastome degradation are poorly understood. The tribe Neottieae contains various nutrition types, i.e., autotrophy, mixotrophy, and mycoheterotrophy. Here, we present a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis of the tribe based on plastome and nuclear ITS data. We inferred the evolutionary shift of nutrition types, constructed the patterns of plastome degradation, and estimated divergence times and ancestral ranges. We also used an integration of molecular dating and ecological niche modeling methods to investigate the disjunction between the Loess Plateau and Changbai Mountains in Diplandrorchis, a mycoheterotrophic genus endemic to China that was included in a molecular phylogenetic study for the first time. Results: Diplandrorchis was imbedded within Neottia and formed a clade with four mycoheterotrophic species. Autotrophy is the ancestral state in Neottieae, mixotrophy independently originated at least five times, and three shifts from mixotrophy to mycoheterotrophy independently occurred. The five mixotrophic lineages possess all plastid genes or lost partial/all ndh genes, whereas each of the three mycoheterotroph lineages has a highly reduced plastome: one lost part of its ndh genes and a few photosynthesis-related genes, and the other two lost almost all ndh, photosynthesis-related, rpo, and atp genes. These three mycoheterotrophic lineages originated at about 26.40 Ma, 25.84 Ma, and 9.22 Ma, respectively. Diplandrorchis had presumably a wide range in the Pliocene and migrated southward in the Pleistocene. Conclusions: The Pleistocene climatic fluctuations and the resultant migration resulted in the Loess Plateau-Changbai Mountains disjunction of Diplandrorchis. In the evolution of mycoheterotrophic lineages, the loss of plastid-encoded genes and plastome degradation are staged and irreversible, constraining mycoheterotrophs to inhabit understories with low light levels. Accordingly, the rise of local forests might have promoted the origin of conditions in which mycoheterotrophy is advantageous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human beings have disturbed the original characters of plants through interspecies hybridization, especially for economically producing cultivars with enhanced traits. Phalaenopsis is remoulded for exquisite flowers with huge shape and popular colors. However, the current challenge in Phalaenopsis breeding is that existing varieties tend to lose their original floral scent during the complex process of super-paraent hybridization. To address this, we collected a wide range of native species and hybrids to form the composition background and correlated the dynamics of Phalaenopsis fragrance for the futher breeding. A total of 208 volatile organic compounds (VOCs), with 83 prominent compounds constituting about 40 % of the identified substances. The primary species included all three major classes of floral fragrance compounds, with native species accounting for 83.33 % of volatile compounds released at levels exceeding 100 ng g−1 h−1. Both primary species and cultivars exhibited distinct aroma profiles, characterized by ten specific substances. Phalaenopsis stobartiana , originating from China, shows potential for benzenoid scents in fragrant flower breeding. On the other hand, hybrids primarily consisted of terpenoids and contained a higher abundance of low-threshold floral fragrance compounds. We also observed significant correlations between terpenoid and benzenoid scents with respect to color and flower shape. The height and width of the plants also showed a significant negative correlation with phenylpropanoid/ benzenoids and nitrogen-containing scent compounds. By conducting an extensive investigation into floral fragrance detection, we were able to concisely present the interrelationships among various characteristics of Phalaenopsis. This endeavor lays a primary foundation for exploring polymorphism in floral scent, providing guidance in Phalaenopsis breeding and facilitating ongoing genome-based molecular design for cultivating high-quality and fragrant orchids. [Display omitted] • Primary species and cultivars exhibited distinct aroma profiles separated by ten main characteristic substances. • Metabolic shunting and hybridization origin are possible reasons for the loss of floral fragrances in Phalaenopsis cultivars. • Phalaenopsis stobartiana can be prospective parent to make up for the benzenoid floral substances of Phalaenopsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Eastern Himalayan region is a hotspot of biodiversity in the world, and Tibet of China is an important region of it. It is of great significance to clarify the background plant resources and geographical distribution in this region for the study of regional flora. Five newly recorded genera, namely Callostylis Blume, Chiloschista Lindl., Diploprora Hook. f., Taeniophyllum Blume and Yoania Maxim., are reported from Tibet Autonomous Region, China. The five newly recorded species are Callostylis rigida Bl., Chiloschista yunnanensis Schlechter, Diploprora championii (Lindl.)Hook. f., Taeniophyllum retrospiculatum King & Pantl. and Yoania prainii King & Pantl. Morphological descriptions and characteristic pictures of the newly recorded genera and species are also attached. The results of this study further enrich the flora data of China, broaden the records of orchids in Tibet, and have important value for the diversity and conservation of orchids in Tibet and adjacent areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to its attractive flower shape and color, Renanthera (Orchidaceae), comprising about 19 species, has significant ornamental value as a houseplant, in floral design and in landscape gardens. Two species of Renanthera are categorized as endangered and critically endangered in China's Red List and international trade in these orchids is currently strictly monitored by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This paper reports on the de novo assembled and annotated plastome of four species of Renanthera; R. citrina, R. coccinea, R. imschootiana, and R. philippinensis. The length of the plastome sequences ranged from 144,673 bp (R. imschootiana) to 149,007 bp (R. coccinea) with GC content of 36.6-36.7%. The plastomes showed a typical quadripartite structure, including a large single-copy (84,241-86,404 bp), a small single-copy (11,468-12,167 bp), and a pair of inverted repeats (24,482-25,715 bp) regions. Of the 120 genes detected, 74 were protein coding, 38 were tRNA, and eight were rRNA genes. The plastome of Renanthera is rather conserved, but nucleotide variations that could distinguish them apart are noticeable--the total number of tandem repeats ranged from 62 (in R. imschootiana) to 74 (in R. citrina); while the number of long repeats ranged from 21 (in R. imschootiana and R. philippinensis) to 43 (in R. citrina). Three hypervariable regions (psbI-trnS-GCU, trnG-GCC, rpl32) were identified. Phylogenetic analyses based on the CDS using maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) revealed that Renanthera is closely related to Holcoglossum, Neofinetia, Pendulorchis, and Vanda. The relationship between the four species of Renanthera was fully resolved; a monophyletic clade was formed and R. coccinea was recorded as the first to diverge from the rest. The genetic data obtained from this study could serve as a useful resource for species identification in Renanthera as well as contribute to future research on the phylogenomics of Orchidaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To date, little is known about the past evolutionary trajectories of rare and endangered orchids native to mainland China, Japan, and Korea (the CJK region). In this study, we focus on two endangered orchids, Cypripedium japonicum (present in the three countries) and C. formosanum (endemic to Taiwan), to understand the divergence/speciation models that would have been operating in this group, including genetic diversity, geographic structure, and colonization pathways across the region. Using a combination of five cpDNA regions, we reconstructed phylogenetic trees and investigated the genetic diversity/structure of 20 populations. Ecological niche modeling was used to gain insight into the paleodistribution and dispersal corridors at the Last Glacial Maximum and to survey climatic niche differences. Populations from mainland China + Korea, Japan, and Taiwan formed three distinct monophyletic lineages and were placed into separate genetic clusters, agreeing with geographic barriers and species boundaries. Populations of C. japonicum in mainland China harbored the highest diversity, suggesting the presence of multiple glacial refugia. The Korean populations would have originated from either western/central or eastern China, probably using a dispersal corridor across the East China Sea shelf. The divergence of C. formosanum is proposed under an allopatric speciation model, also highly influenced by a climate niche shift. In the context of previous studies, a deep divergence in cpDNA sequences between Chinese + Korean and Japanese populations of C. japonicum may be taken as an example of the speciation events of the CJK flora since the late Neogene that have led to its current species richness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The translocation of orchids (Orchidaceae) cannot be successful if one is unaware of their effective pollinators and plant–pollinator interactions. Cypripedium guttatum is a generalized food-deceptive orchid, which is highly threatened in the Republic of Korea, thus, requiring immediate translocation actions. Although effective pollinators of the orchid are well known in China, little is known about the pollinators in the Republic of Korea and the ecological context in which the orchid can be successfully pollinated. To briefly assess the pollination of C. guttatum prior to translocation, we conducted a one-month survey of general pollination and the community-wide plant–pollinator network properties. Over 21 h of observation, we found that an effective pollinator of the orchid was the sweat bee Lasioglossum virideglaucum. The network was significantly specialized and modular, but not significantly nested. L. virideglaucum (pollinator) and Arabis gemmifera (plant) were determined to be keystone species, based on network metrics. A total of six network modules were identified and the flower colors of the plant species belonging to the C. guttatum module were purple, white, and yellow. After comparing the daily network patterns, we found that pollination of the orchid was accomplished when various flowering plant species bloom, and the nestedness value was high. This study revealed that high plant and pollinator richness could increase the chance that the deceptive orchid would be pollinated. Our study suggests that the network properties of this food-deceptive orchid community could provide useful insight into understanding the ecologically suitable habitat for the translocation of the highly threatened orchid species C. guttatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xylariales are common endophytes of Dendrobium. However, xylarialean species resolution remains difficult without sequence data and poor sporulation on artificial media and asexual descriptions for only several species and old type material. The surface-sterilized and morph-molecular methods were used for fungal isolation and identification. A total of forty-seven strains were identified as twenty-three species belonging to Apiosporaceae, Hypoxylaceae, Induratiaceae, and Xylariaceae. Five new species—Annulohypoxylon moniliformis, Apiospora dendrobii, Hypoxylon endophyticum, H. officinalis and Nemania dendrobii were discovered. Three tentative new species were speculated in Xylaria. Thirteen known fungal species from Hypoxylon, Nemania, Nigrospora, and Xylaria were also identified. Another two strains were only identified at the genus and family level (Induratia sp., Hypoxylaceae sp.). This study recorded 12 new hosts for xylarialean endophytes. This is the first report of Xylariales species as endophytes from Dendrobium aurantiacum var. denneanum, D. cariniferum, D. harveyanum, D. hercoglossum, D. moniliforme, and D. moschatum. Dendrobium is associated with abundant xylarialean taxa, especially species of Hypoxylon and Xylaria. We recommend the use of oat agar with low concentrations to induce sporulation of Xylaria strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The genus Tulotis has been classified into the genus Platanthera in the present taxonomic studies since the morphological characteristics of this genus is very similar to that of Platanthera. Platanthera ussuriensis, formerly named as Tulotis ussuriensis, is a small terrestrial orchid species and has been listed as wild plant under State protection (category II) in China. An improved understanding of the genomic information will enable future applications of conservation strategy as well as phylogenetic studies for this rare orchid species. The objective of this research was to characterize and compare the chloroplast genome of P. ussuriensis with other closely related species of Orchidaceae. Results: The chloroplast genome sequence of P. ussuriensis is 155,016 bp in length, which included a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 26,548 bp that separated a large single copy (LSC) region of 83,984 bp and a small single copy (SSC) region of 17,936 bp. The annotation contained a total of 132 genes, including 86 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes and 8 rRNA genes. The simple sequence repeat (SSR) analysis showed that there were 104 SSRs in the chloroplast genome of P. ussuriensis. RNA editing sites recognition indicated 72 RNA editing events occurred, and all codon changes were C to T conversions. Comparative genomics showed that the chloroplast sequence of Platanthera related species were relatively conserved, while there were still some high variation regions that could be used as molecular markers. Moreover, Platanthera related species showed similar IR/SSC and IR/LSC borders. The phylogenetic analysis suggested that P. ussuriensis had a closer evolutionary relationship with P. japonica followed by the remaining Platanthera species. Conclusion: Orchidaceae is a key group of biodiversity protection and also a hot spot group in the plant taxonomy and evolution studies due to their characteristics of high specialization and rapid evolution. This research determined the complete chloroplast genome of P. ussuriensis for the first time, and compared the sequence with other closely related orchid species. These results provide a foundation for future genomic and molecular evolution of the Orchidaceae species, and provide insights into the development of conservation strategy for Platanthera species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Goodyera (Orchidaceae) from Tibet, China, G. medogensis, is described and illustrated here. Molecular phylogenetic results based on one nuclear (ITS) and two plastid markers (matK and trnL-F) support the recognition of G. medogensis as a new species in Goodyera subsection Reticulum. Morphologically, the novelty is most similar to G. biflora, G. vittata and especially to G. hemsleyana, but differs by the thick grid lines of the reticulations with a diffused margin on the adaxial surface of the leaf blades, the inflorescence with more flowers, the obliquely obovate-rhombic petals, the yellow or yellowish labellum without a lamella on the blade, and the shorter trichomes on the floral bracts, sepals and ovary. Finally, a key to the species of Goodyera subsect. Reticulum in China is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most species in the genus Cypripedium (Cypripedioideae) produce trap flowers, making it a model lineage to study deceptive pollination. Floral attractants in most species studied appear to target bee species of different sizes. However, more recent publications report fly pollination in some subalpine species, suggesting novel suites of adaptive floral traits.Cypripedium lichiangense (section Trigonopedia) is an endangered subalpine species endemic to the Hengduan Mountains, China. We observed and analysed its floral traits, pollinators and breeding systems over 2 years in situ and in the lab.Cypripedium lichiangense was visited by females of Ferdinandea cuprea (Syrphidae). The pollinia were carried dorsally on the fly thoraces. The eggs of this fly were frequently found in the saccate labellum and on other floral organs, suggesting brood‐site mimesis. The orchid is self‐compatible, but cross‐pollination produces more viable embryos.We propose a new mode of floral mimesis, humus‐rich oviposition site mimicry, for C. lichiangense. Compared with the mimesis of aphid colonies attracting syrphid pollinators (subfamily Syrphinae), whose larvae are entomophagic, as reported in some Paphiopedilum species (Cypripedioideae), pollination by deceit in C. lichiangense represents a distinct and separate mode of exploitation of another saprophagic (or phytophagic) larvae syrphid lineage in the subfamily Eristalinae and appears to indicate diversity of pollination strategies in Section Trigonopedia of Cypripedium. However, this new brood‐site mimesis seems to be less attractive to pollinators. As a possible adaptation to the weak attracted pollination strategy, this plant species has a long flowering period and extended lifespan of individual flowers to ensure reproductive success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bletilla is an Orchidaceae genus with high medical value, including detumescence, antibacterial, and hemostasis. In this study, detailed estimates of ploidy level, karyotype, and genome size were first obtained, and a comprehensive cytological analysis was carried out to better understand the evolution of the genus. The karyotypes of Bletilla were mainly composed of metacentric and submetacentric chromosomes with lengths ranging from 1.25 to 4.93 lm. There was moderate cytological variation in Bletilla (chromosome number 2n = 32 to 76). Diploid with 2n = 34 and 2n = 36 was detected in Bletilla ochracea and Bletilla formosana, respectively, whereas diploid (2n = 32) was dominant in Bletilla striata, dysploidy (2n = 34, 2n = 36) and polyploid (2n = 48, 51, 64, 76) variations were also observed. Three species had a relatively symmetric karyotype, and which of B. ochracea was more asymmetry. The genome size (1C-values) varied from 2.94 pg (B. striata) to 3.33 pg (B. ochracea), of which B. ochracea was significantly larger than the others (P < 0.05). A positive correlation (P < 0.01) between 1Cx vs. haploid chromosome length (HCL) and asymmetry coefficient of karyotypes (AsK%) was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The Orchidaceae is of economic and ecological importance and constitutes ˜10% of all seed plant species. Here, we report a genome physical map for Cymbidium sinense, a well‐known species belonging to genus Cymbidium that has thousands of natural variation varieties of flower organs, flower and leaf colours and also referred as the King of Fragrance, which make it arose into a unique cultural symbol in China. The high‐quality chromosome‐scale genome assembly was 3.52 Gb in size, 29 638 protein‐coding genes were predicted, and evidence for whole‐genome duplication shared with other orchids was provided. Marked amplification of cytochrome‐ and photosystem‐related genes was observed, which was consistent with the shade tolerance and dark green leaves of C. sinense. Extensive duplication of MADS‐box genes, and the resulting subfunctional and expressional differentiation, was associated with regulation of species‐specific flower traits, including wild‐type and mutant‐type floral patterning, seasonal flowering and ecological adaption. CsSEP4 was originally found to positively regulate gynostemium development. The CsSVP genes and their interaction proteins CsAP1 and CsSOC1 were significantly expanded and involved in the regulation of low‐temperature‐dependent flowering. Important genetic clues to the colourful leaf traits, purple‐black flowers and volatile trait in C. sinense were also found. The results provide new insights into the molecular mechanisms of important phenotypic traits of Cymbidium and its evolution and serve as a powerful platform for future evolutionary studies and molecular breeding of orchids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paphiopedilum armeniacum is a rare and endangered lady's slipper orchid in China. It is distributed around the mid-elevations of the Nu Mountains in southwest China. Due to over-harvest, habitat loss, and degradation, wild populations of P. armeniacum has declined drastically. A combination of approaches involving biotechnology, habitat restoration, and interspecific relationship reconstruction was used to carry out the reintroduction of the species. Integrated conservation program for this species included in-situ protection, ex-situ conservation, and reintroduction, which helped to rebuild a harmonious relationship between local farmers and P. armeniacum. The sustainable utilization of native plant resources in poor areas can promote regional sustainable development which is compatible with species protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stichorkis gibbosa is a rare orchid species of the tribe Malaxideae mainly distributed in tropical Asia. This is the only species of the genus Stichorkis Thouars which has been reported to occur in China. Despite the importance of this genus, previous molecular studies based on few markers have resulted in limited phylogenetic resolution. With the decline of habitats, the wild population of S. gibbosa has decreased in recent years. In this study, we first reported the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of S. gibbosa. The entire cp genome was determined to be 158,056 bp in length with overall GC content of 36.9%, containing a pair of inverted repeat regions (IRs) of 27,006 bp, separated by a large single-copy (LSC, 86,280 bp) and a small single-copy (SSC, 17,764 bp). A total of 133 unique genes were annotated, including 87 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and eight rRNA genes. The phylogenetic tree indicated that S. gibbosa was a sister group of the genus Oberonia and the epiphytic Liparis alliance with strong support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phalaenopsis malipoensis Z.J. Liu et S.C. Chen, 2005 is a valuable species of Orchidaceae with significant ornamental value. This study reports the first complete chloroplast genome of P.malipoensis was collected integrally and clarified further. The genome was 144,528 bp in length and comprised four regions, including a pair of inverted repeats each 24,710 bp, a large single-copy region of 83,475 bp, and a small single-copy region of 11,633 bp. The whole genome contained 125 genes, including 8 rRNAs, and 39 tRNAs. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that P. malipoensis was closely related to Phalaenopsis lobbii. The analysis of P. malipoensis chloroplast genome will provide significant data for the identification and further improvement of P. malipoensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton-winter fallow is the major cropping system of cotton in the Yellow River basin of China, which not only leads to a considerable waste of land and natural resources, but also high greenhouse emissions and a loss of reactive nitrogen. Replacing winter bare fallow in cotton production with February orchid as a cover crop is a new cropping system in this area, but its sustainability is still unknown. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted with two cropping systems (cotton-winter fallow and cotton-February orchid) under four nitrogen application rates (0, 112.5, 168.75, and 225 kg N ha−1). Field observations were incorporated into a life cycle assessment to estimate the carbon footprint, nitrogen footprint, net ecosystem economic benefits, and economic benefits. The estimated carbon footprint per unit of sown area was 43.6–76.1% lower in the cotton-February orchid system than in the cotton-winter fallow system, mainly because of the increase in soil organic carbon. The cotton-February orchid system significantly increased the nitrogen footprint per unit of sown area by 6.7–11.5% under different application rates mainly because of the increase in N2O emissions. The nitrogen application rate significantly impacted the carbon and nitrogen footprints. After accounting for changes in the nitrogen and carbon footprints, the cotton-February orchid system with 168.75 kg N ha−1, which resulted in the highest net ecosystem economic benefits and economic benefits, resulted in a 25.0% reduction in nitrogen fertilizer applied and a 9.5% increase in net ecosystem economic benefits compared with the conventional cotton-winter fallow system and nitrogen fertilizer application rate (225.75 kg N ha−1). Thus, adopting an integrated strategy combining February orchid as a cover crop and a reduced nitrogen fertilizer application contributes to improvements in green and sustainable cotton production systems in the Yellow River basin and other regions with similar ecological conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dendrobium viroid (DVd) was first reported in China in 2020, and it is the only viroid known to infect Orchidaceae family plants. In this study, we developed a simple reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) method for the rapid detection of DVd in Dendrobium plants. When extracting the sap template from the leaves, they are first clamped between two layers of plastic film, and the sap is pressed out and collected with a pipette. Using this sap, DVd was detected by dot‐blot and RT‐PCR methods and, the expected amplicons were confirmed by sequencing analysis. The batch analysis of field samples revealed that this method can be used to detect DVd rapidly. The detection method also reduces cross‐contamination between different samples and minimizes false positives. Thus, this sap‐direct RT‐PCR method allows effective and rapid DVd detection in the study of Orchidaceae plants. Significance and Impact of the Study: The sap‐direct reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assay described in this study is the first report of rapid detection of Dendrobiumviroid (DVd), which allows effective and rapid DVd detection in field investigations of Orchidaceaeplants. It can also be used as a reference for the detection of other plant viruses and viroids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphyllorchis yachangensis, a new holomycotrophic orchid from Guangxi, southern China is described and illustrated here. This new species is similar to A. caudata but differs from the latter mainly by the sepals acute at the apex, the hypochile with 2 smaller and semicircular wings, the epichile adaxially smooth, acute, the lateral lobes triangular-ovate and the column clavate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Epiphytic orchids exhibit varying degrees of phorophyte tree specificity. We performed a pilot study to investigate why epiphytic orchids prefer or avoid certain trees. We selected two orchid species, Panisea uniflora and Bulbophyllum odoratissimum co-occurring in a forest habitat in southern China, where they showed a specific association with Quercus yiwuensis and Pistacia weinmannifolia trees, respectively. We analysed a number of environmental factors potentially influencing the relationship between orchids and trees. Difference in bark features, such as water holding capacity and pH were recorded between Q. yiwuensis and P. weinmannifolia, which could influence both orchid seed germination and fungal diversity on the two phorophytes. Morphological and molecular culture-based methods, combined with metabarcoding analyses, were used to assess fungal communities associated with studied orchids and trees. A total of 162 fungal species in 74 genera were isolated from bark samples. Only two genera, Acremonium and Verticillium, were shared by the two phorophyte species. Metabarcoding analysis confirmed the presence of significantly different fungal communities on the investigated tree and orchid species, with considerable similarity between each orchid species and its host tree, suggesting that the orchid-host tree association is influenced by the fungal communities of the host tree bark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Paphiopedilum henryanum Braem 1987 is a critically Endangered terrestrial orchid mainly occurred around the southern China and northern Vietnamese borders. Recently, the population size of this species has been sharply declined due to many threats such as climate change, habitat loss, and narrow distribution. In this study, the complete chloroplast genome sequence of P. henryanum was determined from Illumina pair-end sequencing data. The chloroplast genome was 155,886 bp in length, including a large single copy region (LSC) of 87,573 bp, a small single-copy region (SSC) of 2,831 bp, and a pair of inverted repeated regions (IRa and IRb) of 32,741 bp each. The chloroplast genome contained 121 genes corresponding to 76 protein-coding genes, 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes and 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, respectively. The results of phylogenetic analysis indicated that P. henryanum was closely related to P. violascens and P. venustum in the genus Paphiopedilum based on sixteen whole chloroplast genome sequences. The results would provide a valuable resource for future genetic studies of Paphiopedilum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habenaria is one of the largest terrestrial genera in the family Orchidaceae. Most field studies on Habenaria species with greenish–white and nocturnal scented flowers are pollinated by nocturnal hawkmoths and settling moths. However, H. rhodocheila presents reddish flowers lacking a detectable scent and fails to fit the moth pollination syndrome. We investigated the pollinators, breeding system, and functional traits of H. rhodocheila in South China and found that two diurnal swallowtail butterflies Papilio helenus and Papilio nephelus (Papilionidae) were the effective pollinators. When butterflies foraged for nectar in the spur, the pollinia became attached between the palpi. A triangular projected median rostellar lobe was found at the entrance (sinus) of the spur of H. rhodocheila. This lobe divided the spur opening into two entrances forcing butterflies to enter their proboscides through the left or right side. When the projection of median rostellar lobe was removed, the site of pollinium attachment changed to the eyes of the butterflies, leading to a higher rate of pollinium removal but lower rate of pollinium deposition. Our quartz glass cylinder choice experiment suggested that visual rather than olfactory cues provided the major stimuli for butterflies to locate these flowers. Hand pollination experiments suggested this species was self‐compatible but pollinator‐dependent. However, the proportion of seeds with large embryos produced in self‐pollinated fruits was significantly lower than in cross‐pollinated fruits, indicating a significant inbreeding depression. Unlike many other orchid species, fruit set was higher than rates of pollinium removal, indicating a high level of pollination efficiency in a species with friable pollinia. Shifts from moth to butterfly pollination in the genus Habenaria parallel other orchid lineages providing insights into the potential for pollinator‐mediated floral trait selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Viable populations of threatened orchids can be re‐established in the wild through integrated conservation that combines a scientific understanding of species ecology with applied knowledge of horticultural requirements. Previously abundant in South China, Pecteilis susannae has declined due to habitat loss and collection, both for its magnificent flowers and its fleshy tubers, which are of purported medicinal value. To illustrate the steps being taken for the conservation of this and other orchids in Hong Kong, the history, taxonomy and ecology of P. susannae are discussed, and information on its propagation and culture are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Hemipilia flabellata, a terrestrial orchid from western China is illustrated. Its history, ecology, introduction and cultivation are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchidaceae resources census is the basis of mastering regional background data, and it is of great significance to the study of the geographical distribution and resource diversity of Orchids. Two newly recorded species of Orchidaceae, Bulbophyllum raskotii J. J. Verm., Schuit. & de Vogel and Panisea panchaseensis Subedi, are reported from southeastern Tibet, China for the first time. They grow on trees or rocks in evergreen broad-leaved forest at elevations of 2 000 m. Descriptions and photos for diagnostic characters are provided. Key to Panisea species occurring in China is provided. This study enriched the records of Orchidaceae in China, and provided basic data for studies of Orchidaceae diversity and conservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchids have suffered dramatic declines in China and elsewhere in the world and several species are at the brink of extinction. Recent developments in orchid reintroduction programs could help establish new populations in natural habitats and release the current pressure on China's most threatened orchid species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pleione hookeriana (Lindl.) B. S. Williams is a species of Orchidaceae with high ornamental value. It is a protected plant in China. To document the genetic history of this rare species, the chloroplast genome sequence of P. hookeriana from the Yunnan Province, China, were analyzed. The complete chloroplast genome is 158,930 bp in length and contains a large single-copy (LSC) region of 86,880 bp, a small single- copy region of 18,664 bp (SSC), and a pair of inverted repeats (IR) of 26,693bp. There are 137 genes, including 89 protein-coding, 40 transfer RNA (tRNA) and 8 ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. The total GC content of the chloroplast genome sequence is 37.2%. The maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis indicated that P. hookeriana was sister to P. chunii (MK792342.1). The result may be because the species are roughly the same geographical location and advanced and developed from the same ancestor. This study provides important information for the identification and conservation of species, and genetic engineering of P. hookeriana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This is the first report of endophytic Biscogniauxia in Dendrobium species • Biscogniauxia dendrobii sp. nov. is introduced based on the large discrepancy on both sequences (5.2%) and size of conidia. • The ethyl acetate crude extract of the isolate B. petrensis showed moderate and strong cytotoxic activity against A549 and K562 using CCK8 assay (IC 50 of it 13.5 and 3.5 ug/ml, respectively). Biscogniauxia belongs to the family Graphostromataceae , and species have been found mainly as pathogens in dicotyledonous plants worldwide. Two endophytic strains, Biscogniauxia dendrobii sp. nov. and B. petrensis were isolated from Dendrobium aphyllum and D. harveyanum sampled from southwestern China and northern Thailand respectively. The conidiophores and conidia were used for morphological examination. The maximum likelihood and Bayesian analysis with ITS, TUB2, RPB 2 and LSU sequence data were combined for phylogenetic analyses and species identification. Biscogniauxia dendrobii sp. nov. is introduced based on the large DNA base pair differences (5.2%) and size of conidia. Another known species B. petrensis is also illustrated and described in this study to facilitate species identification on D. harveyanum. The ethyl acetate crude extracts of the isolate B. petrensis showed moderate and strong cytotoxic activity against A549 and K562 using the CCK8 assay (IC 50 of it 13.5 and 3.5 ug/ml respectively). This is the first report of endophytic Biscogniauxia in Dendrobium species and of their cytotoxicity to A549 and K562, all of which enhances the current knowledge on the genus Biscogniauxia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, we reported and characterized the complete chloroplast genome of a moth orchid, Phalaenopsis wilsonii, which is endemic to South China. Its plastid genome size is 145,373 bp, consisting of a large single copy (LSC) region (84,996 bp), a small single-copy region (10,668 bp), and two inverted repeats (IRs) regions (24,855 bp). A total of 122 plastid genes were annotated, comprising 76 protein-coding genes, 38 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. The phylogenetic tree further revealed that P. wilsonii showed a sister relationship with P. lowii within subgenus Parishianae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]