WOW - this is a great topic and I'm eager to see how every one feels about it. I do hope that we can all respect each others opinions.
My opinion is that wild orchids should stay wild. I originally voted NO but perhaps it should have been MAYBE. I would like to think that if institutions were able to collect wild orchids for identification and preservation that it would be okay; but in all reality, I do not feel that that is how it would be maintained. Greed is a powerful thing.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Anton  That's a reason I suggested Orchid Societies have the "licence" as I know in my Society there is a very strong climate of conservation. Some in our group do have permission from the Government to rescue threatened species and these are cultivated and shared within the Society with funds from the sales going towards conservation projects. |
This is a good idea. But it is up to us - the collectors and hobbyist - to be responsible with our purchases. If we are willing to spend the big bucks for a 'rare' orchid, then the pilfering of nature will continue.