Rare orchid brought back from brink of extinction
Summary
Conservationists have helped save a rare orchid, the Fen Orchid, from near extinction in the UK. Through collaborative efforts, the orchid's population has grown, and it is no longer considered under threat.Key Facts
- The Fen Orchid, scientifically known as Liparis loeselii, was close to extinction in the UK.
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden worked with Plantlife and Royal Botanic Gardens Kew to help the orchid recover.
- The orchid needs moist conditions with specific moss and fungi to grow.
- Draining and abandoning fen habitats caused the orchid's decline.
- In 2010, the orchid was found only at four sites in the UK; now, it is at ten sites.
- Its population in the UK now exceeds 10,000 individual plants.
- This is the first time the Fen Orchid has been successfully cultivated in Great Britain.
- The orchid's conservation status has improved, but ongoing efforts are needed.
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