Gastrodia sesamoides

Orchid Mackeral Track

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Gastrodia sesamoides
File:Gastrodia sesamoides.jpg
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Scientific classification
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Species	Template:Taxonomy/Gastrodia G. sesamoides
colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Binomial name
Template:Taxonomy/Gastrodia Gastrodia sesamoides R.Br.

Gastrodia sesamoides, commonly known as the potato orchid, is a species of orchid native to Australia and New Zealand. It is a mycoheterotrophic plant, meaning it derives nutrients from fungi rather than through photosynthesis.

Description

Gastrodia sesamoides is a leafless, terrestrial orchid that grows to a height of 30-60 cm. The plant has a fleshy, tuberous root system that resembles a small potato, hence its common name. The flowers are brownish to reddish-brown and appear in clusters on a single spike. Each flower is about 1-2 cm long and has a tubular shape.

Habitat and Distribution

This orchid is found in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, and heathlands. It is commonly found in areas with rich, organic soils and is often associated with decaying plant matter. Gastrodia sesamoides is distributed across Australia, including Tasmania, and is also found in parts of New Zealand.

Ecology

Gastrodia sesamoides is a mycoheterotrophic plant, meaning it relies on a symbiotic relationship with fungi to obtain nutrients. The fungi, in turn, are associated with decaying organic matter in the soil. This unique ecological relationship allows the orchid to thrive in low-light environments where photosynthesis is not feasible.

Reproduction

The plant reproduces through its tuberous roots and by seed. The flowers are pollinated by insects, although the specific pollinators are not well-documented. After pollination, the flowers develop into capsules that release tiny seeds into the environment.

Conservation Status

Gastrodia sesamoides is not currently listed as threatened or endangered. However, its habitat is subject to pressures from land development and changes in land use. Conservation efforts focus on preserving its natural habitats and understanding its ecological relationships.

Cultural Significance

In some indigenous cultures, the tubers of Gastrodia sesamoides have been used as a food source. The plant is also of interest to botanists and ecologists due to its unique mycoheterotrophic lifestyle.

See Also

• Orchidaceae
• Mycoheterotrophy
• Australian native plants
• New Zealand native plants