Biological flora of Britain and Ireland: <i>Neottia nidus‐avis</i>

This account provides information on all aspects of the biology Neottia nidus-avis (L.) Rich. (Bird's-nest Orchid) that are relevant to understanding its ecological characteristics and behaviour. The main topics presented within standard framework Biological Flora Britain Ireland: distribution, habitat, communities, responses biotic factors, environment, structure physiology, phenology, reproductive characteristics, herbivory, history conservation. is a native mycoheterotrophic orchid; it found most frequently in deep humus densely shaded beech woodlands, limestone or chalky soils British Isles. species extends throughout temperate Eurasia. perennial, mostly monocarpic herb with mixed mode reproduction many adaptations autogamy. perennating organ short rhizome; vegetative by rhizome branching root-sprouting rather infrequent. Because achlorophyllous nature, N. entirely dependent mycorrhizal basidiomycetes from family Sebacinaceae for nutrition. Plastid genome has been reduced as result relaxation functional constraints photosynthesis other plants. Despite this, plant retained enzymes produce chlorophyll well some photoprotective metabolites, such zeaxanthin tocopherol, whose function remains unresolved. flowers May June, depending latitude altitude. emit sweet scent little nectar. They may be pollinated flies, crawling thrips ants but self-pollination presumed reproduction. Between 75% 97% open set fruits. classified Vulnerable Great Britain. scattered much Isles, very scarce except southern England, where locally abundant. threats deforestation, changes woodland management coniferization.