Conservation biology of Paphiopedilum purpuratum(Orchidaceae)
兰科紫纹兜兰的保育生物学研究

Wutong Mountain in Shenzhen City is one of the several remaining natural habitats of the endangered species Paphiopedilum purpuratum. From October 1, 1998 to February 28, 2002, we observed altogether 407 ramets at nine sites. The climate, vegetation, soil and other environmental factors of this place were described and their relation to the observed plants was analyzed. The species was found to be growing very well in the secondary broad-leaved forests. Its flowers were effectively pollinated by Ischiodon scutellaris and most of the flowering plants of this orchid could bear fruits. We conclude that the main threat this species is facing is the destruction of its forest habitat and not limitations of the plants themselves.