2018 ASHS Annual Conference

Overharvesting and deforestation has led to the critical endangerment of many native South Florida orchid species. Conservation efforts of these rare orchids has, in the past, proven difficult, as the propagation of orchids in nature is uncommon. Due to their tiny, dust-like seeds, which lack an endosperm, orchids require assistance from species-specific mycorrhizal fungi that form a symbiotic relationship with the orchids, in which the fungi provides nutrients for germination and embryo development. Because of this complex specialized relationship, germination rates in nature are exceedingly low. Using in-vitro micropropagation methods, in which artificial growth mediums provide the necessary nutrients, thus, eliminating the need for the fungi symbiont, germination rates can reach nearly 100%. Epidendrum nocturnum is an imperiled (IRC) native south Florida orchid species and the focus of this study. E. nocturnum is epiphytic with fragrant yellowish and white flowers ranging from 3-5 inches. Traditionally, the orchid grows on a variety of trees throughout the swamps and hammocks of south Florida. The aim of this study was to use biotechnological conservation methods to develop a protocol for the micropropagation of E. nocturnum using organic amendments in the growth medium.