Orchids all over the world face extinction dangers from:• Habitat destruction: Rainforests in Central and South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa are a minute fraction of their original sizes, and continue to be destroyed at an alarming rate. Many countries do not protect their old-growth forests, and even in countries where orchid habitats are protected, illegal logging and burning continue. A single felled or burned rainforest tree can destroy hundreds of orchids that were attached to its branches. With new orchids discovered every year, it is likely that some species have already been destroyed that were never scientifically identified.
• Unique pollinators: Since orchids frequently have a unique species of insect or bird acting as their pollinator, they are at great risk if their pollinators become endangered or extinct.
• Over-collection: For centuries overzealous orchid collectors have done great damage by removing orchids from their native habitats and destroying their habitatest homes. Sadly, rare orchids still command a high price in illegal trading. International treaties, like the 19
73 CITES agreement, protect wild orchids, but often enforcement is lax or nonexistent.
• Global warming and climate change: With global temperatures quickly rising at the start of the 21st century, orchid populations face increasing danger. Even orchids that were believed to be safe in their native environments have uncertain futures. Climate change can cause alterations in rainfall patterns, loss of pollinators, and introduction of new pests and diseases. These can all threaten the survival of orchids.
• Unique pollinators: Since orchids frequently have a unique species of insect or bird acting as their pollinator, they are at great risk if their pollinators become endangered or extinct.
• Over-collection: For centuries overzealous orchid collectors have done great damage by removing orchids from their native habitats and destroying their habitatest homes. Sadly, rare orchids still command a high price in illegal trading. International treaties, like the 19
73 CITES agreement, protect wild orchids, but often enforcement is lax or nonexistent.• Global warming and climate change: With global temperatures quickly rising at the start of the 21st century, orchid populations face increasing danger. Even orchids that were believed to be safe in their native environments have uncertain futures. Climate change can cause alterations in rainfall patterns, loss of pollinators, and introduction of new pests and diseases. These can all threaten the survival of orchids.
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