Zootrophion
(pronounced: zoh-oh-TROH-fee-on)
Classification
Epidendreae subtribe Pleurothallidinae. Species of Zootrophion are very similar to those of Ophidion and both were included in Cryptophoranthus, a genus now relegated to a broadly defined Pleurothallis. In Zootrophion the dorsal sepal is fused to the late
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Overview
Caespitose epiphytes. Ramicauls erect, concealed by tubular bracts. Leaves one, elliptic, leathery. Inflorescences sessile, subapical on the ramicaul. Flowers rigid. Lateral sepals fused for their length, all three sepals fused at their apices forming a box-like structure, open by small slits (“windows”) at the side, the petals much smaller, free. Lip three-lobed, auriculate, arching, articulated to the column foot. Column toothed at the apex, with a stout foot; pollinia 2, naked. Ovary winged.
Distribution
A genus of 11 species recorded from Jamaica, Mesoamerica and South America.
Care and Culture Card
See basic growing conditions and care information below.
Grow Zootrophion in small pots with a seedling-grade epiphyte mixture or on slabs with a pad of moisture retaining material at the roots. Provide medium light levels, cool-intermediate temperatures, and steady watering throughout the year.
Literature
Bock, I. 1996. Zootrophion dayanum (Rchb.f.) Luer 1982 [7]. Die Orchidee 47(6): Orchideenkartei seite 841-842. Luer, C. A. 1982. Ophidion and Zootrophion, two new genera in the Pleurothallidinae (Orchidaceae). Selbyana 7:79-87. Luer, C. A. 1984. Two new species of Zootrophion from Ecuador. Amer. Orchid Soc. Bull. 53(12):1293-1297. Sheehan, T. and M. Sheehan 1997. Orchid Genera Illustrated: Zootrophion. Orchids 66(9):940-941.
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