Question 1

What is Flickingeria macraei?

Accepted Answer

Flickingeria macraei is a small epiphytic orchid native to Sri Lanka, belonging to the family Orchidaceae. It grows attached to tree bark in humid forest environments rather than in soil. It is listed in Sri Lanka's catalogue of ayurvedic medicinal plants under the identifier LK94006064.

Question 2

Is Flickingeria macraei endemic to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The genus Flickingeria is distributed across South and Southeast Asia, so the species is not strictly endemic to Sri Lanka. However, it is a documented part of the island's native flora and contributes to Sri Lanka's notable orchid diversity, which includes a significant proportion of endemic species.

Question 3

What are the medicinal uses of Flickingeria macraei in ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Flickingeria macraei is recognised in Sri Lanka's formal catalogue of ayurvedic medicinal plants, indicating traditional use within indigenous medicine. Specific applications depend on practitioner traditions, and its pharmacological properties have not been fully characterised through modern clinical research. Broader related genera have historically appeared in preparations supporting respiratory health and general vitality.

Question 4

Where can I find epiphytic orchids like Flickingeria macraei in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Wet-zone forests in Sri Lanka's southwestern region, particularly protected areas like Sinharaja Forest Reserve, offer the best habitat for epiphytic orchids. A guided botanical walk with a licensed naturalist significantly improves the chances of spotting such species, as their small size and canopy-level habit make them easy to miss.

Question 5

How many orchid species are found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka is home to well over 150 recorded orchid species, a substantial number of which are endemic to the island. The combination of distinct wet and dry zones, montane cloud forests, and tropical lowland rainforests creates a range of habitats that support considerable orchid diversity.

Question 6

Why are epiphytic orchids considered indicators of forest health?

Accepted Answer

Epiphytic orchids like Flickingeria macraei depend on mature host trees, stable humidity, and clean air — conditions only found in intact, undisturbed forests. Their presence or absence is therefore a reliable signal of overall ecosystem condition. Fragmented or degraded forests typically cannot support stable epiphyte populations.

Question 7

Is collecting wild orchids in Sri Lanka permitted?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka's Fauna and Flora Protection Ordinance regulates the collection of wild plant species, and collecting from within national parks and protected reserves is prohibited without a special permit. Orchids and other wild flora should be observed without disturbance, and ethical wildlife tourism practices should be followed at all times.