Response of Cypripedium and Goodyera to disturbance in the Thunder Bay area

Abstract

Orchids constitute a family of rare plants on the landscape that are facing additional threats from anthropogenic changes to their habitat. Orchids have very specific habitat requirements and can be used as early indicators of changing ecosystems and forest health. The purpose of this study is to update the status of Cypripedium spp. and Goodyera spp. in the Thunder Bay area in response to change in habitat. The city and surrounding area have been developed further in recent years. Locations that were once ideal habitats for certain orchid species, such as wetland habitats, have been lost. In contrast, orchid populations on the Sibley Peninsula, part of which is protected as Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, have continued to thrive, likely due to the seclusion of some of the locations. As a means to preserve orchids, conservation efforts that focus on increasing local stewardship should be implemented.