Of 23 orchid species studied at Barra Colorado National Monument in central Panama, 16 were found to produce extrafloral nectar. Extrafloral nectaries were found primarily on reproductive structures and developing shoots. Only one species (Caularthron bilamellatum) showed evidence of ant occupation, indicating that most orchids are not likely to derive nutritional benefit from their association...

The highly evolved flowers of orchids have colorful sepals and fused columns that offer an opportunity to discover new genes involved in floral development in monocotyledon species. In this investigation, we cloned and characterized the homologous PISTALLATA-like (PI-like) gene PhPI15 (Phalaenopsis PI STILLATA # 15), from the Phalaenopsis hybrid cultivar. The protein sequence encoded by PhPI15 ...

In the present study we investigate the concept of phylogenetic niche conservatism (PNC) within the American species of angraecoid orchids (Campylocentrum and Dendrophylax) and their closest relatives in the Old World (Angraecum) using ecological niche modelling (ENM). The predicted niche occupancy profiles were matched with the outcomes of previous phylogenetic studies to reconstruct the evolu...

Auxin's capacity to regulate aspects of plant development has been well characterized in model plant systems. In contrast, orchids have received considerably less attention, but the realization that many orchid species are endangered has led to culture-based propagation studies which have unveiled some functions for auxin in this system. This mini-review summarizes the many auxin-mediated devel...

The handbook Orchids Phytochemistry, Biology and Horticulture is a reference for biotechnological applications. Deals extensively with research uses.