For those interested in rare species of orchids, a trip to the border of Satrem, a small village in Sattari Taluka, will prove fruitful.
Ensconced deep within the scenic Sahyadri range, also a global biodiversity hotspot, are found a rich and varied species of orchids. While the adjacent villages of Satrem and Parvad are home to the beautiful and rare ‘star’ and ‘doll’ orchids.
It is not easy to access these villages, given that they lie in a remote forested area, but the trip is worth the trouble.
Rare Orchids of Goa
The star orchid (Conchidium microchilos) gets its name from its star-like shape and it is indeed a wondrous sight to behold when these yellow-white “stars” hang down from trees in clusters. (In nature, many orchids cling to trees and bushes as a growth habit, but they take nothing from the host plant and do not injure it in any way. Orchids that grow on trees are called epiphytes or air plants.)
The white coloured doll orchids (Habenaric crinifera) look like forest fairies dancing and swaying in the breeze. Unlike star orchids, these are mostly terrestrial, occasionally found growing on old branches. Both orchids blossom during July to August. These species are so rare that there isn’t much information (or pictures) available about them.
Nashik-based botanist Sharad Kambale, who has studied the forest wealth of Goa, said “Both these species of orchids are rare and unique and there is need to protect and conserve the natural habitat of these orchids.”
These rare species of flora and fauna set us apart from other countries as well as neighbouring states. All nature lovers, if this does not persuade you to visit Goa, I don’t know what will.
Image Credits: Curries and Stories
Stonewater Eco Resort in South Goa
