Pollinators of Epiphytic and Terrestrial Orchid Species in Bhutan

• DOI: 10.17102/sherubdoenme.16.2023.02
• Publication Date: 2023-04-07T12:34:32Z
• Authors: Tshering Nidup; Karma Wangchuck; Sonam Tobgay; Tenzin Wangchuk; Vincent J. Kalkman; Barbara Gravendeel
• Keywords: Epiphyte; Orchidaceae

Fruit set in the orchids wild Bhutan seems to be generally higher than surrounding countries Asia. To obtain more knowledge on local pollinators Bhutan, were photographed private Orchidarium, over a period of six years. A total 10 insect species, belonging orders Diptera (true flies), Hymenoptera (ants, bees, wasps) and Coleoptera (beetle), seen pollinating flowers 15 different orchid species (14 epiphytic 1 terrestrial). Several are reported for first time as orchids. Our study provides glimpse into pollination biology Bhutanese could used reintroduction locally extinct elsewhere