Orchids of Tropical America. An Introduction and Guide. 2014. 1014 (488 col). figs. 278 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.

The easy-to-use identification system of this book permits quick recognition of the most common groups in Central and SouthAmerica. Genus descriptions are in plain language for a non-scientific audience, and the guide is packed with informative stories about the ecology, uses and history of each orchid. Nature reserves from Mexico to Brazil are highlighted, where travelers can enjoy orchids in the wild. Whether you travel abroad to see these unique plants, raise them in your home or merely admire them from afar, this book offers new insight into the diversity and natural history of orchids

CONTENTS: Introduction (Introduction to the guide/ What is an orchid?/Key characteristics for identifying orchids/ Illustrated glossary of orchid characteristics/ How to identify orchid groups/ Easy-to-use orchid identification system/ Orchid Diversity, Ecology & Conservation (Introd. to orchid biology and ecology/ Why are orchids so diverse?/ Fooling files, duping lovers and other ecological tales/ Collectors and bandits, a history of orchids and the people that pursued them/ Threats and conservation: what is being done to save orchids?)/ Field Guide and Genus Descriptions (Detailed description of each group, from stem tosepal/ How to distinguish from similar groups/ Photographs of each group's most commonly seen & ecologically important species/ Distribution and diversity/ Biological stories, ecological oddities, medicinal uses, human history and other wild tales)/ Where to see Orchids (Orchid - centered reserves in Central and South America.