Colombia orchid sanctuary collects and clones endangered species
Deep in Colombia's northwestern forests, an orchid enthusiast has gathered a colorful collection of nearly 25,000 specimens, some of which he is cloning to protect them from extinction.
Colombia, which will host the COP16 UN biodiversity summit later this year, has the world's largest number of orchid species, and new varieties are regularly discovered.
Around the world, the unique flowering plants are increasingly threatened by the slashing down of forests, where most orchids are found.
Agricultural technologist Daniel Piedrahita, 62, has made it his life's mission to preserve the flowers at his sanctuary dubbed "The Soul of the Forest" in La Ceja, a town in the department of Antioquia.
"An orchid? I'll define it for you in one word: perfection," Piedrahita told AFP.
He describes his collection of over 5,000 species as a "genetic bank that I am responsible for... to ensure that each one reproduces perfectly."
The reserve is home to about twenty species that are endangered worldwide and that Piedrahita dreams of returning to their original habitats.
It is also a laboratory for the propagation of orchids unique to Colombia, such as the Anguloa Brevilabris or the Dracula Nosferatu.
A 'pure clone'
In nature, most orchids rely on a specific species of insect, bee or bird for pollination.
Colombia, which will host the COP16 UN biodiversity summit later this year, has the world's largest number of orchid species, and new varieties are regularly discovered.
At 'The Soul of the Forest,' Piedrahita also gives cultivation classes, has an educational YouTube channel and an online school, which help fund operations.