新物种+1 四川发现九寨沟盆距兰

Core Viewpoint - A new species of orchid, named "Jiuzhaigou Poniola," has been discovered in the Jiuzhaigou Scenic Area, contributing to biodiversity and ecological research in the region [1][3]. Group 1: Discovery and Characteristics - The Jiuzhaigou Poniola is found exclusively on dead branches along the Five Flower Lake trail, at an elevation of 2400 to 2500 meters, in the transition zone between subalpine coniferous and broadleaf forests [3]. - This new species is a small epiphytic plant with lanceolate leaves that are thick and leathery, featuring purple-red spots, and tightly arranged [3]. - The flower petals are ovate, yellow-green, measuring approximately 4 to 5.8 centimeters in length, with yellow-green sepals and elliptical middle sepals measuring about 4.8 to 6 centimeters [3]. Group 2: Ecological Significance - Jiuzhaigou, as a core area for biodiversity conservation in the Minshan Mountain range, provides a unique habitat for epiphytic orchids due to its vertical elevation gradient, which supports a complete vegetation belt from mixed coniferous and broadleaf forests to alpine meadows [3]. - The new species, like other endemic Poniola species found in Sichuan, relies on the region's clean air and stable microclimate, with subtle differences in petal patterns and structures reflecting precise adaptations to different forest ecosystems at varying elevations [3]. Group 3: Taxonomy and Research Value - The Poniola genus belongs to the subfamily Epidendroideae, with approximately 73 species globally, primarily found in tropical and subtropical montane forests [5]. - The discovery of Jiuzhaigou Poniola increases the number of species in the Poniola genus to 16, enriching the species inventory and holding significant value for research on regional plant ecological adaptation mechanisms [5].