UNCONTROLLED commercial exploitation is threatening the extinction of about 50 Indian orchid species, including such popular ones as jewel orchids and lady slipper orchids (Current Science, Vol 63, No 12).

Though orchids have vast commercial potential, mass multiplication techniques have not been implemented in India. This has resulted in rapid depletion of flowers in the wild and particularly threatened are orchid species with large, bright flowers, which are in high demand.

Scientists warn mass multiplication techniques and orchid sanctuaries are measures that should be considered to save orchid species from extinction.