Orchids of Ust-Medveditsky natural park and its surroundings

Representatives of the Orchid family ( Orchidaceae Juss.), growing in temperate latitudes the Palaearctic have always gained increased attention, especially in recent years. The difficult biology of development, the stenotopic character of specialized habitats and ecology predetermine the vulnerability of most orchids to anthropogenic factors. Many species of orchids in the conditions of the temperate zone are extremely vulnerable and need special protection. We have studied the location of orchids in the territory of Ust-Medveditsky natural park (UMNP) in order to identify their current state and possible ways of protection. Search and collecting orchids was carried out in the nature. During the field research conducted in 2011-2014 in the territory of UMNP and in its vicinities, the biotopes suitable for growth of orchids were studied. We have found 5 species of orchids ( Dactylorhiza cruenta, D. incarnatа, Orchis militaris, O. palustris, Platanthera chlorantha ); three more species of orchids ( Epipactis helleborine, E. palustris, Platanthera bifolia ) are also expected to find. These types of orchids are described for the first time. The finding of Dactylorhiza cruenta is of particular interest. The studies suggest the presence of specific habitats on the territory of Ust-Medveditsky natural park that are favorable for the growth of orchids. This large cluster of orchids in the conditions of arid climate of the steppe zone is quite the anomaly. The growth of these rare species in this area increases the representativeness is Ust-Medveditsky natural park in the system of protected natural area in the region.