New orchid discovered

An orchid species which was discovered in Trongsa, Bhutan in September 2019 has been identified as a new species and named Bulbophyllum Trongsaense, derived from the place of its origin.

Bulbophyllum Trongsaense is yellow in color and has reddish-maroon spotted flowers and grows on trees. The species which was collected last year, was only confirmed as a new species worldwide this year. It was found by a team of forestry officials from the range office of Trongsa and Bumthang division and occurs in parts of Trongsa and Lhuentse as well.

As per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List categories and criteria, the species is classified as ‘endangered’ in Bhutan.

In Bhutan, the genus Bulbophyllum is represented in 36 species, excluding the newly discovered species in the country.  The country is estimated to have around 500 species of orchids with many parts of the country unexplored.

Bhutan recorded 5,114 species of animals and 5,369 species of plants. The plant and animal species account for more than 93 per cent of the 11,000 plus species.  Spring is the best time to visit for viewing this plant.

Book a trip to Bhutan and view this rare orchid and other unique natural heritages!