China discovers new orchid species in giant panda habitat

Recently, Chinese researchers discovered a new orchid species growing in the habitat of giant pandas in Sichuan province, southwest of the country. The discovery was published in the international scientific journal PhytoKeys.

Newly discovered orchid species in China. (Source: CGTN)

According to the Wolong National Nature Reserve Administration, Sichuan, the new orchid species, named Gastrochilus balangshanensis , was first discovered in March 2023 in the forests of Balang Mountain, within the grounds of the giant panda national park.

After careful observation, literature review, comparison with similar species, and systematic molecular analysis, the research team concluded that this is a new species belonging to the genus Gastrochilus in the family Orchidaceae.

The report said that Gastrochilus balangshanensis grows in mixed coniferous forests, at an altitude of 2,100m-2,300m. This species blooms from April to May and bears fruit from August to September.

To date, two populations of this orchid have been identified. Expanding the survey area is important to develop effective conservation strategies.

The discovery of this new orchid species once again highlights the biodiversity of the Ngoa Long National Nature Reserve . In the six decades since its inauguration, many new plants have been discovered here, contributing significantly to the conservation of unique and rare plant species.