Rare orchid found in Irian

NABIRE, Irian Jaya: Researchers have found a species of orchid which they believe to be the world's most rare, Antara reposted.

The orchid is the shape of a shoe and is predominantly brown and yellow, members of the Irian Jaya chapter of the Indonesian Association of Orchids said.

Chapter Secretary Cessy Manuputty declined to disclose the exact location where the orchid, whose Latin name is Paphiopedilum Praestans, was found, for fears of attracting unscrupulous collectors.

Cessy said that researchers are now working on the possibility of farming the orchid species because they could potentially become a major income earner for people in the Paniai regency.

The association is already working on developing farms to grow several other kinds of orchids, including Dendrobium Phalaenopisis, Lasianthera and Antennatum in Wamena, Jayawijaya regency.

Cessy said there are at least 500 different orchid species found in Irian Jaya alone. (emb)