oikos : for Ecological Services

October - 2012
Dear Nature Lovers, Greetings from oikos ! Western Ghats host many unique orchids. Largest orchid found in this region is Khandalyachi Rani, named after its abundance in Khandala ! It is a rare orchid, threatened due to overexploitation for ornamental value. Regards,
Regards, Ketaki & Manasi.
Pecteilis gigantea (Scientific name) This is a terrestrial orchid, also known as Wagh choura due to shape of its lateral lobes mimicking tiger whiskers. It has a light fragrance. It grows along the periphery of the moist deciduous or semi evergreen forests in semi open conditions. Commonly found in Karwi (Carvia callosa) clusters. Since tubers of this orchid and many other orchids go dormant in dry periods, it is not seen during summer. So excavation for roads, infrastructure projects in these hills is posing a big threat on such orchids.

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