Systematics, evolution and conservation of Australian orchids
Caladenia granitora Hopper & A.P.Br. (Orchidaceae), Manypeaks National Park in the Southwest Australian Floristic Region. Photo: © S.D. Hopper
The Orchidaceae in Australia have been the subject of intensive research over the past three decades, resulting in discoveries and circumscription of several hundred new species, and significant revision of generic, subtribal and tribal boundaries informed by DNA sequence analysis. Significant debate continues about competing classifications now published, differing in the assignment of generic rank within monophyletic clades, as well as in details concerning typification and interpretation of the rules in the International Code of Botanical Nomenclature. These nomenclatural issues aside, knowledge of the evolution and conservation of Australian orchids remains patchy, needing much more work to elucidate one of the world’s centres for radiation in terrestrial orchids. Phenomena such as pollination through sexual deceit of male wasps are especially well developed in the flora.
This project aims to elucidate the systematics, evolution, biogeography, and conservation biology of Australian orchids, with special emphasis on those found in the Southwest Australian Floristic Region.
Project Team
Directorate
Stephen Hopper, Rhian Smith
Project Partners and Collaborators
Australia
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Department of Environment and Conservation
The University of Western Australia