Orchideensammlungen in EcuadorJardm Botanico 'Las Orquideas' in Puyo

摘要

This small reserve is located at the end of the Pastaza valley in the small town of Puyo. It is a conservation center for the flora of Ecuadorian Amazonia. Starting in 1980, Omar TELLO, a local Puyo man has been working to restore this seven hectare patch of land into a healthy functioning forest. The reserve had previously been used as pasture land, which created severe problems with soil damage and erosion, presenting significant difficulties in the restoration process. However, with careful planting, extensive use of natural fertilizers, and many years of hard work, the forest is now able to support itself, attracting insects, birds and orchids that had previously abandoned the locality.In this small area one can now admire countless species of orchids, but only local Ecuadorian species growing in their natural habitat. The forest also serves as a refuge for endangered rainforest trees, ones that are being logged indiscriminately throughout the Amazon region for timber and land clearance. At the orchid and botanical garden one can also learn about medicinal and other plants used by the indigenous cultures of the Ecuadorian Amazon.