Orchids (Orchidaceae family) are the largest and most diverse of the flowering plant (Angiospermae) families, with over 800 described orchid genera and 25,000 orchid species. Some sources give 30,000 orchid species, but the exact number is unknown since classification differs greatly in the academic world. Revisions of different genera occur on a monthly basis and this will increase with the growing use of genetic research and biochemistry. There are another 100,000+ hybrids and cultivars produced by horticulturists, created since the introduction of tropical species in the 19th century. The Kew World Checklist of Orchids includes about 24,000 accepted orchid species. About 800 new orchid species are added each year. Orchids, through their interactions with pollinators and their symbiosis with orchid mycorrhizal fungi, are considered by some, along with the grasses, to be examples of the most advanced (derived) floral evolution
known.
All orchid species are protected for the purposes of international commerce under CITES as potentially threatened or endangered in their natural habitat, with most orchid species listed under Appendix II. A number of orchid species and genera are afforded protection under Appendix I, including all of Paphiopedilum and all of Phragmipedium. Many other orchid species are protected by both international and national legislation, while hybrids are specifically exempted.
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