Integrated Conservation of Native Orchids

Abstract

Plant conservation initiatives are essential to mitigate damage currently degrading global plant biodiversity. This is especially true for members of the Orchidaceae, which are currently under tremendous pressure stemming from anthropogenic activities. Unfortunately, conservation of preexisting populations is often not enough to combat the decline and thus, integrative conservation methodologies that include ecological, genetic, and propagation efforts provides a more effective conservation strategy. This project focuses on the development of an integrated conservation methodology for use with Alberta’s native orchids by using Cypripedium passerinum populations in the Wagner Natural Area as a model. The project focuses on three main objectives: Ecological study of C. passerinum, population genetic assessment of sampled populations, and ex situ propagation and reintroduction of the species. Currently, ecological evaluation of fifty-six C. passerinum clumps has occurred with phenology, pollination, surrounding vegetation, and soil parameter data being collected. A promising methodology for assessing the genetic diversity amongst the sampled plants has been identified and seed pods have been collected for propagation efforts. Future work is required to complete the population genetic assessment and develop protocols for propagation and future reintroduction efforts for this species.

Discipline: Biological Sciences (Honours)

Faculty Mentor: Dr. David McFadyen