Orchids of Arunachal Pradesh. 20025. 810 col. figs. XXVI, 422 p. 4to. Hardcover.

Orchids of Arunachal Pradesh is a unique and comprehensive reference book that presents the complete diversity of orchid species in the state, making it one of a kind in the field of orchid studies. Orchids are the most diverse group of monocot plants, known for their extraordinary variation in flower size, shape, structure, color, and appearance. Globally, there are around 27,000 species of orchids, with India home to over 1,400 species. These fascinating plants can be found across all continents except Antarctica, and in India, they are primarily distributed in the Northeastern states, the Himalayan region, the Western Ghats, and the Eastern Ghats. Arunachal Pradesh, often referred to as the ‘Orchid Paradise’ of India, boasts the highest number of orchid species in the country, with over 650 species found in the wild. Notably, 41 species have been discovered in the state, of which 30 remain endemic. This book, Orchids of Arunachal Pradesh, offers an updated checklist of 657 taxa across 119 genera, presented in alphabetical order. It features an impressive 810 color photographs of orchids, including many rare and endemic species, providing an invaluable resource for easy identification of native orchids. In addition to the orchids, the book showcases photographs of diverse vegetation types, panoramic landscapes, and the rich tribal cultures of Arunachal Pradesh. The book provides an in-depth historical background on orchid documentation, as well as insights into their life forms, growth habits, morphology, distribution, and the threats facing their biodiversity. It is grounded in extensive fieldwork and practical experience, offering a brief description of all 119 genera. Based on recent molecular studies, the book also incorporates updates to orchid taxonomy, discarding certain genera such as Bulleya, Galeola, Neogyna, Otochilus, Panisea, Pholidota, and Vandopsis.