Orchids are a large and diverse family of flowering plants, with over 25,000 species in more than 880 genera. The majority of these species are found in the tropics, with a smaller number in temperate regions. Orchids have an extensive root system that helps them to absorb water and nutrients from the surrounding soil. They also have specialised leaves that help to prevent water loss.
Orchids are pollinated by a variety of insects, including bees, wasps, flies, and butterflies. The flowers are often brightly coloured and have a distinctive shape that makes them especially attractive to pollinators. Some orchids produce nectar that is specially adapted to the needs of their pollinators. For example, some orchid species produce nectar that is high in sugar content, which is appealing to bees. Other orchid species produce nectar that has a low sugar content but is very viscous, which is ideal for flies.
The vast majority of orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other plants or objects rather than in the ground. This allows them to access sunlight more easily and also means they can avoid competition from other plant roots for water and nutrients. Many epiphytic orchids have specialised roots (called velamen) that help them to absorb water from the air around them.
terrestrial orchids grow in the ground like most other plants. However, they still need access to sunlight and must compete with other plants for water and nutrients from the soil. As a result, terrestrial orchids tend to be found in habitats where there is little competition from other plants (such as open meadows).