Determination of Sites of Special Importance for the Conservation of Threatened Orchid Species in Colombia

Colombia is the country with highest number of orchid species (4270), whose optimal habitat cold and humid forests. However, outlook for conservation alarming, considering that deforestation causing loss millions hectares This situation has led to existence 206 endangered species. Therefore, this research was conducted determine Sites Special Importance Conservation Threatened Orchid Species in (SSICO), through an analysis their spatial altitudinal distribution using various databases, make a selection nature reserves on municipality scale, Marxan software, employing relevant parameters (richness, rarity, IUCN category).
 Furthermore, results were later compared Protected Areas System, determining coverage propose SSICOs. 674 records presence threatened orchids 277 municipalities obtained. Urrao, Abrego, Frontino areas greatest richness rarity. selected 47 located mostly Andes region, four SSICOs prioritized, which are Antioquia, Norte de Santander, Nariño Putumayo provinces. These SSICOs, addition being points great biodiversity, special socio-economic characteristics influence management natural resources. require timely attention, research, intervention by environmental authorities because importance conserving Forests.