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(Didymoplexis Stella-Silve) (meaning star of the forest) are new species of orchid flora from Madagascar. They are known for their high levels of diversity and endemism. They are the largest family of plants in Madagascar and to this day more are still being discovered. We have now found 17 subspecies, and 51 varieties, which make it a total of 1002 species. These flowers are very unique as though they can grow in complete darkness. They do not rely on chlorophyll for their nutrients instead they rely on the underground fungi. These flowers are believed to only open once after it rains. Being one of the 16 that received a name recently it is also considered endangered because of its habitat, they could already possibly be extinct.
Endemism describes the geographical area where a species has been found. For example, it can tell us where certain species of a family were founded and the range and distribution of it based on geography that is left behind.
didymoplexis stella-silvae in its natural habitat.
Discovery and Etymology
editDidymoplexis Stella-Silve was first recognized in the 1820s. Louis Marie Aubert du Petit Thouars described 31 new species in 1822. John Lindley founded 15 species in 1824-1850, Heinrich G. Reichenbach furthered knowledge on 51 species between 1850 and 1885. New species were found between 1883-1886 by Henry Ridley, he came to these findings from collections found by missionaries. Over the years these orchid floras are still being discovered and the number of species is increasing immensely. The name Didymoplexis Stella-Silve refers to white bright flowers, which resemble stars.
Description
editHolomycotrophic plant with flowers opening one at a time. A white petal that is adnate to one another. With two rows of thorn-like hairs and rounded arms. A thin erect inflorescence with few flowers that open.
Holomycotroph a myco- troph plant whose sole method of nutrition, is without the use of chlorophyll. A condition called saprophytic.
Habitat
editHumid and humus evergreen forest, under deep shade in leaf litter. The flowering time between December to January
Distribution
editSouth Central Madagascar, Fianarantsoa province, around Ranomafana National Park.
References
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