The above announcement was jointly prepared by LIPI-BKT scientist Destario Metusala and biodiversity conservation scientist at the University of Indonesia (UI) Jatna Supriatna and published in the international scientific journal Phytotaxa on September 19. 9.
Image of Gastrodia orchid. (Photo: Jakarta Post).
LIPI-BKT coordination and assignment supervisor Lia Hapsari said on September 20 : “The discovery of this new orchid species is a priceless gift on the 50th anniversary of LIPI’s founding on August 23 “.
Scientist Destario said that the Gastrodia orchid is part of the holomikotropic orchid group, often called “ghost orchids” by world scientists.
Mr. Destario said he and other researchers named the new orchid species Gastrodia orchid to refer to the structure that is its habitat. This scientist added that the Gastrodia bamboo orchid is an endemic orchid species found only on the island of Java, especially in West Java and Mount Merapi in Yogyakarta City.
Gastrodia orchids are part of the “ghost orchids”. (Photo: Jakarta Post).
The number of this type of ” ghost orchid” has decreased because of habitat destruction. Scientist Destario explained that Gastrodia orchid grows in dark, humid environments and often near thick, old bamboo clusters.
Like other holomikotropic orchids, Gastrodia bamboo orchids do not have chlorophyll, so they do not undergo photosynthesis. These types of orchids also do not live with mistletoe.
Mr. Destario said: “The life cycle of this orchid relies on the supply of organic nutrients through symbiosis with mycorrhizal fungi. Hopefully this discovery will enhance biodiversity conservation. Future”.
