Ex Situ Conservation of Epiphytic Orchids: A Bibliometric Review

Epiphytic orchids, representing 70% of the Orchidaceae family, face critical challenges due to habitat loss, climate change, and overexploitation. Ex situ conservation aims to preserve these species outside their natural habitats while maintaining their ecological characteristics for potential reintroduction. This review examines various ex situ strategies, including seed banking, living collections, tissue culture, and mycorrhizal conservation, as well as acclimatization techniques and reintroduction efforts. Botanical gardens, private collections, and orchid seed banks play essential roles in safeguarding genetic diversity and supporting reintroduction projects. The success of these efforts hinges on a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates scientific research, community involvement, and habitat restoration to ensure the long-term survival of epiphytic orchids. The findings emphasize the need for integrated conservation strategies to bridge the gap between orchid ecology studies and practical conservation actions.