The occurrence and conservation status of Tasmanian Pterostylis (Orchidaceae)

Abstract

Orchids belong to one of the largest plant families present in Tasmania and yet they remain poorly researched. In Tasmania, Pterostylis R.Br. comprises about 37 terrestrial species, commonly called greenhoods. Little is understood about Tasmanian Pterostylis ecology and a recent assessment of species' abundances and distributions have not been conducted. Over a two year period known Pterostylis locations within mainland Tasmania, King Island and Flinders Island were visited for the purpose of collecting detailed data for species abundance, distribution and flowering. Several species within the genus Pterostylis are facing significant threats, and recommendations to prevent the decline of these species are provided.