Collection, Conservation and Utilization of Taiwan Native Orchid Germplasm

Taiwan is located in a subtropical rainy area with special geography and rich in ecological resources comprising more than 300 orchid species. Many species are being worth developed for further utilization as ornamental and medicinal herbs. Great efforts have been made on the positive collections for the native orchids from middle mountain area in Taiwan. At present, more than 60 species of orchids have been collected and the database of their characteristics was established. Some collections of native orchids can be used as medicinal herbs. The medium goal of this research is to determine the unique utilization of collections and to develop proper methods for the long-term germplasm preservation. The long-term goal is to determine how to use these important germplasms to develop new varieties via hybridization among species or genera. Finally, the precious germplasms of native orchids in Taiwan can be inherited and preserved well through sustainable management.