Analysis of Altitude and Diversity of Orchids

Oct 13, 2025 by windailys.com 96 views

Introduction

The Limited Production Forest (HPT) in Sihombu Village, Tarabintang District, Humbang Hasundutan Regency, is a treasure trove of biodiversity, including non-timber forest products (HHNK). Among these products, orchids stand out as beautiful flowering plants with high economic potential. The study conducted by Intan Debora Sihombu, guided by Irawati Azhar and Riswan, aimed to explore the diversity of orchid types on the HPT of Sihombu Village based on the height of the place.

Methodology

This study employed the purposive sampling method by dividing the HPT area into three height intervals: 450-550 m above sea level, 550-650 m above sea level, and 650-750 m above sea level. Inventory and orchid identification were carried out with a sampling intensity of 1% of the total HPT area (1,440 ha) using a systematic method of sampling plot measuring 10x10 meters.

Results

The results showed that Sihombu Village HPT had a high diversity of orchids. There were 57 types of orchids from 17 genus, which were divided into 10 types of soil orchids and 47 types of epiphytic orchids. Another interesting finding is the existence of two types of endemic orchids, namely Cleistoma Rhycholabium Garay and Paphiopedilum Superbiens (RCHB. F.).

Analysis of Altitude and Diversity of Orchids

This study found that the height affected the diversity of orchids. The light intervals of 550-650 m above sea level have the highest number of orchids (31 species), followed by intervals of 650-750 m above sea level (18 types) and 450-550 m above sea level (8 types). This shows that the area with an altitude of 550-650 m above sea level has optimal environmental conditions for the growth of various types of orchids.

Economic and Conservation Potential

The existence of orchids in Sihombu Village HPT has great economic potential. Orchids can be cultivated and marketed as ornamental plants, both at the local and national levels. In addition, the presence of endemic orchids such as Cleistoma Rhycholabium Garay and Paphiopedilum Superbiens (RCHB. F.) has high conservation values, because it is a unique genetic asset and needs to be protected.

Recommendations and Conclusions

This study provides important information about the diversity of orchid types at Sihombu Village HPT. These results can be the basis for the development of conservation strategies and sustainable use of orchids. Recommendations that can be taken are:

Increasing Public Awareness

Raising awareness about the importance of preserving orchids and forests among local communities, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
Organizing workshops and training programs to educate people about the value of orchids and the importance of conservation.

Development of Orchid Cultivation Program

Establishing an orchid cultivation program that is environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Providing training and support to local communities to help them develop their own orchid cultivation programs.

Determination of Special Conservation Areas

Identifying and designating special conservation areas for endemic orchids to protect biodiversity and genetic potential.
Implementing effective conservation measures to protect these areas and the orchids within them.

Conclusion

With proper management, the potential for non-wood forest products in the type of orchid in the Sihombu Village HPT can provide economic and environmental benefits for the local community. The findings of this study can serve as a basis for the development of conservation strategies and sustainable use of orchids, ultimately contributing to the preservation of biodiversity and the well-being of local communities.

Future Research Directions

Future research should focus on:

In-depth studies on the ecology and behavior of orchids in different height intervals.
Development of effective conservation strategies for endemic orchids.
Investigation of the economic potential of orchid cultivation and marketing.

By addressing these research gaps, we can further our understanding of the potential of non-wood forest products in the type of orchid in the Sihombu Village HPT and contribute to the sustainable management of this valuable resource.

Q: What is the significance of the study on the diversity of orchid types on Sihombu Village HPT?

A: The study is significant because it provides valuable information about the diversity of orchid types on Sihombu Village HPT, which can be used to develop conservation strategies and sustainable use of orchids. The study also highlights the economic potential of orchids and the importance of preserving them.

Q: What are the main findings of the study?

A: The main findings of the study are:

The HPT of Sihombu Village has a high diversity of orchids, with 57 types of orchids from 17 genus.
The area with an altitude of 550-650 m above sea level has optimal environmental conditions for the growth of various types of orchids.
The existence of two types of endemic orchids, namely Cleistoma Rhycholabium Garay and Paphiopedilum Superbiens (RCHB. F.).

Q: What are the economic and conservation potential of orchids on Sihombu Village HPT?

A: The economic potential of orchids on Sihombu Village HPT is high, as they can be cultivated and marketed as ornamental plants, both at the local and national levels. The presence of endemic orchids also has high conservation values, as they are unique genetic assets that need to be protected.

Q: What are the recommendations for the conservation and sustainable use of orchids on Sihombu Village HPT?

A: The recommendations for the conservation and sustainable use of orchids on Sihombu Village HPT are:

Increasing public awareness about the importance of preserving orchids and forests.
Developing an orchid cultivation program that is environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Determining special conservation areas for endemic orchids to protect biodiversity and genetic potential.

Q: What are the future research directions for the study on the diversity of orchid types on Sihombu Village HPT?

A: The future research directions for the study on the diversity of orchid types on Sihombu Village HPT are:

In-depth studies on the ecology and behavior of orchids in different height intervals.
Development of effective conservation strategies for endemic orchids.
Investigation of the economic potential of orchid cultivation and marketing.

Q: What are the implications of the study for the local community and policymakers?

A: The study has implications for the local community and policymakers, as it highlights the importance of preserving orchids and forests, and the potential economic benefits of sustainable orchid cultivation and marketing. The study also emphasizes the need for effective conservation strategies to protect endemic orchids and preserve biodiversity.

Q: What are the limitations of the study?

A: The limitations of the study are:

The study was conducted in a limited area, and the results may not be generalizable to other areas.
The study did not investigate the economic potential of orchid cultivation and marketing in detail.
The study did not develop effective conservation strategies for endemic orchids.

Q: What are the future directions for the study on the diversity of orchid types on Sihombu Village HPT?

A: The future directions for the study on the diversity of orchid types on Sihombu Village HPT are:

Conducting in-depth studies on the ecology and behavior of orchids in different height intervals.
Developing effective conservation strategies for endemic orchids.
Investigating the economic potential of orchid cultivation and marketing in detail.