In Quang Tri Province, a rare leafless orchid species (scientific name: Erythrorchis ochobiensis Garay) has been discovered due to its outstanding characteristics and genetic value.
On November 10, Mr. Tran Van Ty, the head of the Quang Tri Forest Protection Sub-department, reported that during a program researching plant diversity and medicinal plant resources in Quang Tri Province, researchers from the Central Institute of Scientific Research and the Quang Tri Forest Protection Sub-department discovered a leafless orchid in the Rú Lịnh forest located in Vinh Linh District.
The leafless orchid found in the Rú Lịnh forest is scientifically named Erythrorchis ochobiensis Garay, belonging to the Orchidaceae family. It is characterized by its stem and underground roots, living as a saprophyte, with beautiful white flowers and yellow stamens.
The saprophytic leafless orchid discovered at Rú Lịnh (Quang Tri). (Photo: Tuan Anh)
Globally, there are three species recorded in this genus, found from India, Indochina, and the tropical regions of Asia to Australia. These are all rare orchids due to their distinctive features and genetic value. Among them, Vietnam has recorded two species: Erythrorchis altissima Blume and the aforementioned Erythrorchis ochobiensis Garay.
Previously, these species were noted by scientists both domestically and internationally at the Dakrong Nature Reserve (Quang Tri) and in the provinces of Ninh Thuan and Quang Binh.
However, this is a saprophytic leafless orchid, meaning it only thrives in natural environments with fungal symbiosis and does not adapt well when cultivated or transplanted.
