Introduction to Orchid Plants

Orchidaceae, one of the largest families of angiosperms, have important ornamental, medicinal, scientific, and ecological value. Orchids have developed many unique organs and structures throughout their evolution, which are significant parts the diversity of Orchidaceae. With the rapid development of molecular systematics and genomics research in recent years, the classification system of the Orchidaceae has been greatly improved. However, orchids are being affected by survival pressures such as habitat fragmentation and overharvesting. All species of Orchidaceae are listed in the CITES Appendix. Orchidaceae are also one of the key groups for biodiversity conservation in China. Many conservation methods and measures have been proposed and performed. This chapter provides a comprehensive view of orchid research from the perspectives of economic value, taxonomic and systematic research progress, morphological glossary, history of Chinese orchid research, orchid diversity in China, the geographical distribution of wild orchids, taxonomic system, etc. It summarizes the current research status of orchids, puts forward the problems that still need to be solved, and points out the future research directions.