Diversity and in Situ Conservation Status of Orchidaceae in Wenshan Prefecture, of Southeast Yunnan

Based on the field survey data and related information collected from 1998 to 2023 in Wenshan Prefecture, the diversity, rarity and endangerment, geographic distribution, and in situ conservation status of orchid plants in Wenshan Prefecture were analyzed. The results showed that: There were 439 species of wild orchids belonging to 109 genera were found in Wenshan Prefecture, including 74 endemic species. The orchid population was dominated by epiphytic orchids, with the geographical distribution of the genera primarily tropical; Among them, there were 371 species distributed in protected areas, with an in situ conservation rate of 84.51%; There were 113 species of wild orchids under national key protection, 10 species under Yunnan Province key protection, 12 species with very small populations, and 115 threatened species; The geographical distribution was as follows: Malipo county(286 species) and Maguan county(286 species) > Xichou county(266 species) > Wenshan city(222 species) > Funing county(170 species) > Guangnan county(94 species) > Yanshan county(92 species) > Qubei county(53 species); In vertically distribution, the number of species(360 species) was found at elevations of 1101-1700m . The orchids in Wenshan Prefecture are rich and diverse but unevenly distributed. Most orchids are distributed in the protected areas, but they are still seriously threatened by human disturbance. It is recommended to strengthen the investigation, and protection to fully protect the orchids resources in this area.