An integrated approach to orchid conservation in Colombia: what do orchids, hummingbirds, bears, potable water, and indigenous land rights have in common?

摘要

The conservation of native orchids in Colombia represents a major challenge because of the high diversity of species, the peculiarities of their distributions, and the threats they face. Three elements of an integrated strategy for the conservation of orchids need to be addressed: (1) generation and socialization of significant knowledge through research and education; (2) support for habitat (including forest, desert, mangrove and savannah) protection and management; and (3) promotion of sustainable uses of orchids both inside protected areas and outside of them. Such a strategy must answer three fundamental questions: Where should efforts be concentrated both for conservation of species as well as habitats? What actions should be taken to promote their conservation? And who should advance these conservation actions? The presentation reported on environmental education, research programs, and efforts to strengthen local institutional capacity as needed tools in promoting orchid conservation..