Native Orchids of Trinidad and Tobago provides detailed descriptions of the native species and varieties of orchids from Trinidad and Tobago. The Orchidaceae is the largest family of flowering plants with between 15,000 and 20,000 known species and varieties in from 500 to 600 genera; and new ones are being discovered by almost every botanical expedition to tropical areas. In Trinidad and Tobago, the Orchidaceae is the second largest family of flowering plants in terms of number of species. The native species and varieties known at the present time number 181, and they belong to sixty-six genera. The genera are enumerated in strict phylogenetic sequence, in accord with SCHLECHTER'S system. The species are listed alphabetically under the genera. An attempt has been made throughout to indicate synonymy as completely as possible even to the inclusion of binomials, which have never been used in connection with the flora of Trinidad and Tobago. The description of each genus has for the most part been drawn up to cover the morphological limits shown by the concept throughout its entire geographic range, whereas the specific descriptions are usually based only upon material collected in Trinidad and Tobago.

"Written for students at sixth form and undergraduate levels, and for 'the interested adult reader who might want to get a general feel for the subject', this is a systematic introduction to the rich diversity of Trinidad and Tobago's natural history, illustrated with maps and the author's own field photography. To manage a country's natural heritage effectively, the author argues, its organisms and ecosystems must be understood. Chronicling its degradation is not enough."--Publisher's description.

An accessible, comprehensive and beautifully illustrated guide--the only one to cover all the orchids found in Britain and Ireland Covering more than fifty species as well as hybrids and variants, this is an engaging, intuitive and in-depth identification guide to all the orchids of Britain and Ireland at all stages of development, from first emergence through to setting seed. Drawing on the authors' extensive field experience and the latest scientific research, Britain's Orchids uses multiple techniques to help both beginner and more advanced orchid enthusiasts to identify even the trickiest plants. The book is beautifully illustrated with plates by talented artist Sarah Stribbling as well as more than 1,000 detailed, instructive and evocative photographs by the authors. Orchids have long fired the imagination with their beauty and rarity. This book aims to ignite or increase your passion for these special plants and for the conservation of their habitats, from remote mountaintops to urban wild spaces. The first book to cover all the species, subspecies and varieties, as well as hybrids, at all stages of development Lavishly illustrated with close to 100 stunning plates drawn to scale to show key identification features and more than 1,000 stunning photo showing orchids in their natural settings Simple, step-by-step system for identifying almost any orchid Up-to-date distribution maps and seasonal charts showing when each species can be seen in its various stages Special-feature identification keys that can be used on difficult plants