The CAPE ORCHIDS
A regional monograph of the orchids of the Cape Floristic Region William R. Liltved and Steven D. Johnson Sandstone Editions proudly announces publication of The Cape Orchids, a new regional monograph in two volumes. The work encapsulates a comprehensive overview of what is currently known about the classification and ecology of all 241 orchid species, both terrestrial and epiphytic, of the 24 genera native to the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa. An area of prodigious biodiversity, this region has been declared a World Heritage Site and is recognised as one of the top International Biodiversity Hotspots. The publication of this work comes at an opportune time for global conservation awareness. Habitat destruction has severely reduced populations of many orchid species, so that it is poignant to note that these volumes could offer a final look at a number of highly endangered or virtually extinct species. Orchids are one of the most treasured elements of the Cape flora and this book is intended as a fitting tribute to their magnificence. As the majority of Cape orchids are fire-dependent and many remain dormant for long periods, some spectacular species will rarely be seen in flower. Significant aspects of their natural history, biology and distribution have thus, until recently, remained poorly documented. The Cape Orchids forms a scientifically important archival record, combining the literature of nearly four centuries with contributions from many well-known botanical authorities of today, making it an indispensable reference work. With a strong focus on natural history, photographic imagery and botanical art, it presents a living herbarium of these fascinating plants. The authors holistic approach extends well beyond the traditional treatment of taxonomy and plant descriptions to cover a wider spectrum, encompassing biological, ecological and evolutionary aspects. Features of the work include:
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