The Lycian orchid, scientifically known as Ophrys lycia, is a perennial orchid species that grows in the unique nature of the Mediterranean and can reach a height of 40-50 centimeters. This delicate plant has two tubers underground and blooms between late March and April. With its large and showy flowers, this species stands out: the sepals and petals are pinkish-violet, while the lip part is a reddish-brown color. It primarily spreads in almond terraces, rocky areas, and shrublands. However, its distribution is quite limited—Ophrys lycia is found only in the Kaş district of Antalya and its surrounding areas.
Where Does the Name “Lycian” Come From?
This orchid species is named after the ancient region of Lycia, once known as the “Land of Light.” Ophrys lycia was discovered in 1980 by Swiss botanist Jany Renz in a village cemetery. This paradise, renowned for its ancient sarcophagi and theaters immersed in nature, has unfortunately succumbed to construction driven by tourism.
How Many Orchid Species Are There in Türkiye?
Türkiye is home to approximately 200 different orchid species. Most of these are tuberous and are commonly known as "salep" in Turkish. Depending on their color, shape, or the region they grow in, they are referred to by names such as mountain salep, bee salep, or meadow salep. Since antiquity, orchid tubers have been ground into powder to produce "salep." Used as a thickening agent in hot beverages and ice cream, salep contains the polysaccharide ‘glucomannan,’ leading to the illegal uprooting of millions of orchid tubers from nature every year. Yet, there are long-available plant-based thickeners on the market that could serve as alternatives to salep.
Why Is the Lycian Orchid Threatened?
The wild population of Ophrys lycia is estimated to be under a thousand individuals, meaning only a few hundred remain. Illegal harvesting, habitat destruction due to tourism and construction, and herbicide use in areas like cemeteries are severely threatening the species' survival. If illegal uprooting continues unchecked, tuberous orchids face the risk of extinction. Due to these threats, Ophrys lycia has been classified as "Critically Endangered (CR)" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
A Model Conservation Project by AKD and Ege University
To protect this species, a conservation project was launched three years ago in collaboration between the Mediterranean Conservation Society (AKD) and Ege University. The project aims to preserve Ophrys lycia both in its natural habitat and as genetic material stored in the National Gene Bank.
- The project includes the following stages:
- Controlled cross-pollination to obtain seeds,
- Culturing and propagating the seeds,
- Adapting the propagated individuals to natural habitats.
- This multi-faceted approach brings a holistic strategy to conservation efforts.
In the first phase of the ongoing three-year project, individuals found in the wild were recorded. Selected parent plants were artificially pollinated, and seeds were obtained over the three-year period. As a result, one of the most important genetic resources of the species is now preserved in a mini seed bank created at the Ege University Botanical Garden and Herbarium Research Center.
When the project is completed, these seeds will be transferred to the National Gene Bank for use in future scientific studies. Some of the seeds are already being used to reproduce Ophrys lycia. Exciting results have emerged from lab studies conducted under controlled conditions at the botanical garden. Orchid seeds sown into specially prepared media have started to germinate. The journey that began with seeds measuring 0.1-0.2 mm has resulted in tiny plants reaching 5-6 cm in height. These lab-grown individuals have slowly begun forming tubers. The next step is for these individuals to first develop in greenhouse conditions and then be adapted back to their natural environments. If successful in all phases, this project will ensure the highest level of protection for Ophrys lycia.
This project is one of the most comprehensive and scientific studies ever conducted for an orchid species in Türkiye. It is unique in that it incorporates innovative steps such as germination in laboratory conditions, establishing a mini gene bank, greenhouse adaptation, and reintroduction into the wild.
The Lycian orchid is not only a treasure for nature enthusiasts but also of great importance for the conservation of biodiversity. Not standing by as this beauty disappears means protecting both our natural and cultural heritage.
References:
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