Orchid News # 34

XIX WOC

Abstract:
Manipur is a small state in northeast India bordering Myanmar and it has an important role in supporting a number of flora and fauna of the Indo-Burma megabiodiversity hotspot. Within a small geographical area of the state there are varied agro-climatic zones ranging from tropical to sub-alpine. It has a rich diversity of both terrestrial and epiphytic orchids. Rare and endangered orchids like Renanthera imschootiana, Paphiopedillum hirsutissimum P. spiceranum, Vanda amesiana, V. coerulea, V. stangeana, etc. still grow luxuriantly in this area. In recent years, due to the various forms of growing anthropogenic causes, the survival of the orchids and their habitats is highly threatened. Shifting cultivation or jhum, wild fire, landslide or mudslide, illegal logging, fuel wood collection for domestic use and charcoal preparation, developmental activities, etc. are the main threats. The present paper describes and discusses the present threats to the survival of orchid habitats of the Indo-Burma megabiodiversity hotspot with special reference to Manipur in northeast India.

Rajkumar Kishor
Present Address: Institute of Bioresources and Sustainable Development
Takyelpat Institutional Area, Imphal-795001, Manipur, India

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