I have always wanted to render a small tribute to a group of plants that really deserves it. Orchids, which are always a favorite and famous for their beautiful flowers, are represented in the Galapagos by only 14 species, while continental Ecuador has thousands. Even though there are not many species in the islands, we just cannot avoid feeling an immense fascination towards these plants because of their ability to adapt to the arduous conditions of the archipelago.
Orchids are especially interesting when discussing the establishment of plants in oceanic islands. Colonization by orchids is made unlikely because of the need for specific pollinators. In addition, many species also need certain highly specialized fungi to help their germination. The orchid shown in the picture is named the buttonhole orchid (Epidendrum spicatum), and is an endemic species that flowers throughout the year in the moist highlands of Santiago, Floreana, Isabela, Pinta, San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz Islands.
