Rhizanthella speciosa
Rhizanthella speciosa M.A.Clem. & D.L.Jones
Rhizanthella speciosa is a mycoheterotrophic herb in the Orchidaceae family, found exclusively in Barrington Tops, New South Wales. It remains at or below the soil surface throughout its life cycle, including during flowering.
Description
Rhizanthella speciosa, described by M.A. Clem. & D.L. Jones in 2020, is a member of the Orchidaceae family and is native to New South Wales. This species is mycoheterotrophic, meaning it derives nutrients from fungi rather than through photosynthesis. It is unique in that it lives entirely at or below ground level, with its flowers also emerging underground. The plant is endemic to the Barrington Tops region, where it has been observed completing its entire life cycle without exposure above the soil surface.
Distribution
New South Wales
