Trichoglottis quadriga (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Vandeae: Aeridinae), a new species from Central Highlands of Sri Lanka

Researchers have identified Trichoglottis quadriga, a new orchid species endemic to the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, found at elevations between 900–1800 meters. This discovery distinguishes itself from its closest relative, the Vietnamese T. canhii, through key morphological differences: it features 4-flowered racemes (compared to 5–12 in T. canhii), a longer and narrower spur with a bi-lobed apex, and a significantly larger labellum. The study provides detailed taxonomic descriptions, color plates, line drawings, and a field identification key, alongside ecological notes on habitat and distribution. A preliminary IUCN risk assessment is also included to evaluate the species' conservation status.

BANDARA, C., ATTHANAGODA, A. G., PEIRIS, G. P., JAYASUNDARA, R., RANASINGHE, B., KUMARA, U. N., ABERATHNE, N., HETTIARACHCHI, D., DISSANAYAKE, M., KARUNATHILAKE, T., BANDARA, N. V., FERNANDO, O. D., WIJESUNDARA, C. B., BANDARA, N. L., & KUMAR, P. (2023). Trichoglottis quadriga (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Vandeae: Aeridinae), a new species from Central Highlands of Sri Lanka. Phytotaxa, 609(4), 265–272. https://doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.609.4.2