Abdul
Gani
Guwahati:
Orchids are found in large numbers in the entire Indo-Burma Bio diversity
hotspot that includes the northeastern region, including Assam.
But, unfortunately, due to lack of proper
preservation and documentation, the precious species are facing the threat of
extinction. According to official records, altogether 200 species of orchids
are found in Assam, while 800 to 1000 species are found in the entire
Northeast.
“Among others, the fast destruction of habitat areas
and indiscriminate collection are the prime reasons why it is facing the
threat. If necessary actions are not taken by the government, may be in the
next 10 years we will lose some very precious species of orchid,” said Mujib
Ahmed, chief convener of Patkai Trekkers, an NGO.
During the last two years, nearly 218 sq km of
forest areas were destroyed. Various species of orchids like Dendrobium,
Rhynchostylis and Aerides, among others, are commonly found in Assam. Among all
these Rhynchostylis retusa or Kopou (foxtail orchid) is the most popular here,
which is also the state flower of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
In Assam, it is intensively used during the Bihu
celebrations and it also acts as a symbol of fertility and merriment. Among all
the species found in Assam, 27 are endemic while seven others species have
already extinct.
“The poachers collect the orchids indiscriminately
and smuggle off to nearby countries, especially China, which get them huge
amount of money. This is the prime season why these smugglers are in the job”
he pointed out.
The orchids are in high demand for its usage in
various purposes, from making perfumes to medicines. Their juices are used to
make eye drops against glaucoma, cataract and blindness. Active ingredients of
Vanda coerulea may fight against the visible signs of ageing skin.
In the international market, a tree of orchid can
cost up to US $700. Vanda coerulea, commonly known as Blue Vanda, is a species
of orchid endemic to Assam and neighbouring Khasi Hills with its range
extending to China. Another major reason why the orchids lack preservation is
that the common people are not aware of it.
“As more than 70 per cent of the orchids here are
epiphytes, they suffer when people cut trees and do not know how to take proper
care of these orchids,” he added.
Patkai Trekkers has also urged the government to set
up research centres for their preservation and for spreading awareness.
“The forest department can tie up with universities
in this regard to set up research institutes,” Ahmed added.
He said the preservation of the orchids would even
encourage the tourism sector in the region. (Seven Sisters Post)
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