Projects

The family Orchidaceae is characterized by enormous species diversity. A detailed study of the genetic diversity of orchids at the population level is essential for clarifying the factors that determine their ecological dynamics from an ecogeographic perspective.

The aim of the project proposal is to investigate the ecogeographic profiles of genetic diversity (the degree of genetic divergence at the intra- and interspecific population level) in three orchid species: Epipactis microphylla, Limodorum abortivum, and Orchis militaris. These taxa are listed in the Red Data Books of Bulgaria and Slovakia as species of conservation value. The research is timely and innovative for Bulgaria and Slovakia with regard to the application of DNA barcoding and retrotransposon-based markers for studying genetic diversity in orchids. The data obtained have potential to contribute to the development of effective strategies for monitoring the biodiversity of endangered species, as well as to the development and enrichment of reference databases/catalogues of biodiversity for the effective use of genetic resources. This project proposal involves experts and young scientists from the Institute of Plant Physiology and Genetics (BAS), the Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research (BAS), and the Botanical Garden (BAS), and makes a substantial contribution to strengthening and expanding cooperation between scientists from Bulgaria and Slovakia.