About This Project

A preliminary result from last week's exploration revealed a number of species from the family Orchidaceae that haven't recurred to the scientific literature for almost a century. To further update the scientific records, it is imperative to conduct a thorough exploration to publish results that can be used in conservation studies. Finally, remaining population of P. acmodontum will be documented for its conservation and observation biology studies.

Ask the Scientists

What is the context of this research?

The Negros Island is situated at the very middle of the Philippines. It boasts natural flora and fauna that is unique to the Island. More than one hundred years ago, the Island attracted people of different background and disciplines. They discovered a lot of species from this Island and published scientific articles about their findings. Those people are also responsible for agricultural revolution that lifted the economic status of the island and still thrives to this day. That agricultural and economic revolution is the very reason why a number of species are now threatened by extinction. We cannot take back what has already been lost, but we can save and conserve the wonders that we still have today.

What is the significance of this project?

'Rediscovering the Orchid Species of Negros' is a great way to initiate conservation studies for plant species. The results from this project will be given to a local environmental authority to promote responsible ecotourism and education for the people. This will also serve as a baseline model to establish an effective and efficient conservation programs for other species. Finally, this project aimed to develop the Philippine Orchid Industry as sustainable resource and livelihood of the Filipino People of all generations.

What are the goals of the project?

The first step of the project is to survey different populations of orchids. Once we have determined their location, documentation of their habitat and environmental parameters will be taken. This documentation is vital to mimic their environment ex situ.

The exploration will be taken place in three separate natural parks situated in north, center, and south of the Negros Island for 12 months on every first weekend of the particular month to observe the phenology of the different Orchid species.

Meanwhile in the lab, a thorough review and investigation will be taken place in order to determine whether the collected specimen is a new species or a rediscovered species. In the case of a new species, an electronic raffle will be made to honor the specific epithet after the backer.