Coexistence of multiple cytotypes of an orchid

Coexistence of multiple cytotypes of an orchid

Large-scale cytotype surveys have indicated that intraspecific ploidy diversification is much more common than previously thought. Trávníček et al. examine inter- and intrapopulational ploidy diversity in the fragrant orchid, Gymnadenia conopsea agg., in Central Europe and find that this species represents a remarkable example of ploidy coexistence in a natural environment, with up to five different cytotypes occurring at the same locality. The scarcity of minority cytotypes suggests the existence of strong pre- or postzygotic mating barriers, and the species offers unique opportunities to study processes governing the formation and establishment of polyploids.