One in six orchid species worldwide is estimated to be found in Indonesia. Currently, around 5,000 species have been identified out of the total 30,000, with Papua recording the highest diversity, home to at least 3,000 species. On Java Island, approximately 700 species of orchids have been discovered.
An orchid researcher, Professor Endang Semiarti, from the Faculty of Biology, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Biology UGM), emphasized the need for continued efforts to discover new orchid species, as many Indonesian forests remain unexplored and hold vast biodiversity.
However, despite this potential, the survival of orchids faces threats from factors such as infrastructure development and palm oil plantation expansion.
“Many orchid species are at risk of disappearing from their natural habitats,” she said on Friday (Sep. 12).
To protect orchids from extinction, Biology UGM has long carried out preservation initiatives, including conservation programs, orchid seed propagation, and collaborations with communities across regions, as well as with international partners.
Professor Semiarti has worked on ex-situ conservation, in which orchids are taken from their natural habitats into laboratories for development through tissue culture, allowing for large-scale propagation.
She noted that more than nine species close to extinction have been conserved through this method.
As an academic and orchid researcher, Professor Semiarti emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing in orchid conservation through technology, ensuring that expertise is disseminated across Indonesia.
“This way, knowledge can reach wider audiences and encourage all parties to join in orchid conservation,” she explained.
One innovative collaboration led by Professor Semiarti with fellow orchid experts involves modifying tall-growing orchids at the Duta Orchid Garden into shorter varieties.
This is achieved through genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9 by removing non-essential genes responsible for tall growth, resulting in shorter orchids that still retain their blossoms.
“This method supports the use of orchids as ornamental plants, making them more accessible for the public,” she said.
Beyond scientific research, conservation is also promoted through social initiatives such as orchid festivals.
“Today, we join hands and organize orchid festivals to conserve and introduce orchids to the wider community,” said Professor Semiarti.
She also continues to inspire young people, including her students, not only to love orchids but also to actively work toward their preservation.
“There are many orchid enthusiasts, but very few researchers,” she added.
Author: Jesi
Editor: Gusti Grehenson
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Photographs: Duta Orchid Garden