Assam’s Kaziranga Reveals 70 Rare Orchids in Survey, Among Northeast’s Richest Collections

A recent rapid survey conducted at Assam’s Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve has documented 70 special orchid species, establishing the park as one of the richest orchid habitats in Northeast India. Dr. Sonali Ghosh, the Field Director of Kaziranga, highlighted that this systematic survey aimed to thoroughly document the rich floristic and faunal diversity of the park, and the orchid findings were particularly notable.

Out of the 70 species identified, 46 are epiphytes—plants that grow on other plants—and 24 are terrestrial orchids that grow on the ground. Some of the species recorded include well-known orchids like Aerides odorata, Biermannia bimaculata, and Bulbophyllum ornatissimum.

The survey was led by Khyanjeet Gogoi, a renowned orchid conservationist, along with Range Officers Dr. Bibhuti Ranjan Gogoi and officers from Bagori, Bibit Dihingia, and Kohora ranges. Their detailed visual documentation revealed new records especially from grassland and woodland areas within Kaziranga. The orchids found represent 36 genera, with species such as Acanthophippium sylhetense, Cleisostoma appendiculatum, Dendrobium jenkinsii, Eulophia kamarupa, Peristylus constrictus, Phalaenopsis mannii, and Zeuxine membranacea among others.

The survey also described the ecological niches of the orchids: terrestrial species like Eulophia dabia, Zeuxine lindleyana, and Nervilia Juliana thrive in riverbank grasslands, while others such as Acanthephippium striatum and Hetaeria affinis grow well on the dense forest floor. Several species are endemic to India, including Biermannia bimaculata, Eulophia kamarupa, and Zeuxine lindleyana. Additionally, some orchids such as Bulbophyllum ornatissimum, Erythrodes blumei, Eulophia kamarupa, and Zeuxine membranacea are considered rare within Assam.

Prior to the survey, a unique conservation outreach program was conducted to familiarize local students with the region’s orchid and butterfly diversity. This event, called the Orchid and Butterfly Walk, took place on April 18 and 19, 2025, in Panbari. It attracted over 50 enthusiastic students from various schools and colleges. During this program, three brochures were released to raise awareness about the birds, butterflies, and orchids of Kaziranga. The students participated in guided safaris, enjoying direct observation of the park’s vibrant flora and fauna, which enriched their understanding of the region’s biodiversity.

Expert talks were delivered by orchid and butterfly specialists Khyanjeet Gogoi and Dr. Monsoon Jyoti Gogoi, who shared their extensive knowledge and passion with participants, enhancing the educational impact of the program.

Assam’s Forest Minister expressed excitement over the findings on social media platform X, emphasizing that the discovery of these 70 orchid species across 36 genera positions Kaziranga as one of the richest orchid collections in Northeast India. The minister highlighted that this discovery adds a new dimension to Kaziranga’s iconic wildlife and serves as a testament to the park’s thriving biodiversity and the dedicated conservation efforts underway.

This comprehensive survey and outreach effort not only enrich scientific understanding of Kaziranga’s botanical diversity but also strengthen community involvement and awareness, supporting ongoing conservation goals and enhancing appreciation for one of India’s most treasured natural habitats.