Recently, Chinese researchers discovered a new species of orchid thriving in the habitat of giant pandas in Sichuan Province, located in the southwestern part of the country. The discovery was published in the international scientific journal PhytoKeys.
Newly discovered orchid species in China. (Source: CGTN)
According to the National Nature Reserve Administration of Wolong, Sichuan, the new orchid species has been named Gastrochilus balangshanensis. It was first discovered in March 2023 in the forests of Balang Mountain, within the Giant Panda National Park.
After careful observation, reviewing literature, comparing with similar species, and conducting systematic molecular analysis, the research team concluded that this is a new species belonging to the genus Gastrochilus in the Orchidaceae family.
The report states that Gastrochilus balangshanensis grows in mixed coniferous forests at an altitude of 2,100 to 2,300 meters. This species blooms from April to May and bears fruit from August to September.
So far, two populations of this orchid species have been discovered. Expanding the survey area is crucial for developing effective conservation strategies.
The discovery of this new orchid species further highlights the biodiversity of the Wolong National Nature Reserve. In the approximately six decades since its establishment, many new plant species have been discovered here, significantly contributing to the conservation of unique and rare plant species.
