Climate Change Threatens the Marsh Orchid’s Survival in the Himalayas
The marsh orchid, a rare floral treasure of the Himalayan regions of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh, faces a grim future. Already endangered due to overharvesting, this plant now stands to lose significant parts of its habitat over the next 50 years due to climate change, according to a recent study by the University of Kashmir.
Understanding Orchid Vulnerabilities
Orchids, known for their specialized ecological niches and dependencies on specific fungi and pollinators, are particularly susceptible to environmental changes. “This vulnerability stems from their narrow ecological niches, specific habitat preferences, and strong dependence on mutualistic associations with orchid mycorrhizal fungi,” states Manzoor Shah, Professor of Ecology at the University of Kashmir.
These intricate interdependencies mean that alterations in climate, such as shifts in flowering times due to temperature changes, can disrupt the delicate balance necessary for orchid survival. The marsh orchid’s plight is a signal of broader ecological challenges within its habitat.
The Marsh Orchid’s Endangered Status
Native to the Himalayas, the marsh orchid (Dactylorhiza hatagirea) is classified as endangered by the IUCN. Found at altitudes between 2,500 and 5,000 meters, this perennial herb is prized for its medicinal properties, leading to overharvesting. Known locally by various names like hathajari in Jammu and salam panja in Kashmir, it has been traditionally used to treat ailments such as stomach and respiratory issues.
Javaid M. Dad, a researcher involved in the study, highlights that “widespread threats such as intense grazing, unsustainable harvesting, habitat degradation, and limited public awareness have contributed to its population decline.”
Forecasting Future Habitat Changes
Using ecological niche modelling, researchers projected the marsh orchid’s future distribution under climate change scenarios. They examined habitat suitability using two representative concentration pathways (RCPs), with results indicating that the orchid’s habitat could shrink significantly by 2050 and 2070, especially under the more severe RCP 8.5 scenario.
Currently, the marsh orchid occupies around 790 square kilometers across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. However, these areas are anticipated to decrease due to changing climate conditions, potentially increasing the risk of local extinction despite the seemingly modest habitat loss.
Conservation Strategies and Challenges
To mitigate these risks, researchers advocate for protecting high-altitude ecosystems and exploring ex-situ conservation methods. Irfan Rashid, a study author, suggests that “the Pir Panjal and Zanskar ranges, where habitat suitability is likely to remain stable or improve, could support ex-situ measures.”
Despite the study’s insights, experts note limitations in niche modelling, which cannot fully account for biological interactions or human pressures. Bilal Mir, a botanist, points out that the study underscores the need for more comprehensive conservation approaches that include community-based cultivation and the protection of key habitats.
The findings emphasize the urgent need to incorporate climate projections and species-specific vulnerabilities into conservation strategies to safeguard the marsh orchid and other similarly threatened species.
Read more: Snow droughts intensify across the Hindu Kush Himalayas
Banner image: Dense spikes of purple flowers make Dactylorhiza hatagirea a striking sight in high-altitude landscapes. Image by Javaid M Dad.
Original Story at india.mongabay.com