Improving conservation and translocation success of an endangered orchid, Caladenia xanthochila (Orchidaceae), through understanding pollination

Abstract Critical for conserving endangered orchids is identifying their pollinators and distribution. Caladenia xanthochila an orchid that has floral traits characteristic of pollination by food foraging insects. We identified the pollinator(s), mechanisms attraction presence at natural, existing potential translocation sites. Furthermore, we quantified success sites investigated effect rainfall on over 19 years a natural site. clarify if sharing occurs with closely related species comparing CO1 barcoding region pollinators' DNA. was pollinated single thynnine wasp, Phymatothynnus aff. nitidus . produced 27.0 µg ± 7.1 sucrose labellum, while vigorously copulated glandular clubs sepal tips, suggestive mixed system. Pollination C. 7.6 1.5% SE site 16.1 3.6% across hand pollinations demonstrated pollen limited. significantly to average during growth phase (P < 0.001). Potential were limited, four six surveyed lacking pollinator. found evidence cryptic , being unique amongst studied. recommend translocated remnant wild populations boost initial recruitment. The further highlights need accurate identification pollinators.