Writer: Ian Chung • Photos: Ian Chung • Available online 2 Apr 2005
AM I LOOKING CLOSE ENOUGH? Orchids are mainly categorised into saprophytes, lithopytes, terrestrials and epiphytes. Orchids that feed on decay organic matter are known as saprophytes. If you see those growing on rocks, they are known as lithopytes. Those orchids grown on earth or land are known as terrestrial orchids. Those orchids like the common pigeon orchid that one sees growing on trees everywhere are known as epiphytes. Some months ago, I went on a short break from work in Genting Highlands, Malaysia. Having heard that Taeniophyllum species were rumoured to be growing in that region, I spent some time looking for them in their natural habitat. Tree after tree, no Taeniophyllum species could be seen. I felt Lady Luck was not shining on me. After much trekking, I told myself that after this last tree, I would call it a day and then go back to the resort to rest. To my suprise,
on this last tree, did I managed to see two Taeniophyllum
plants of different species. There was another plant growing nearby,
which is a little wierd looking - it had a few minute leaves and
borne strings of small greenish-white blooms!!. After some scrutinising,
I realise it was not a Taeniophyllum species. It was probably
Microtatorchis javanica, which was first described originating
from Java! I snapped some pictures for keepsake and below is one
of the plants. Through this short article, I would like to let every plant enthusiast know if you see with your heart, unfamiliar and dense growth encountered in some environments should not pose too much of a hindrance. With some perseverence, you should be able to spot some rare species of plants. Remember - take
home with you the photographs of the plants and not the plants themselves!!!
Hence never leave home with a camera, equipped with ample batteries
and film with you! ABOUT THE WRITER Ian is one of our avid GCS members who specialises in orchid growing. He has experience in growing African violets as well as cacti.
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