Bertoloni’s ophrys (Ophrys bertolonii, Quibus. Pl. Ital. 6: 9 (1823))

Family: Orchidaceae

Author: Moretti

Bibliography: Quibus. Pl. Ital. 6: 9 (1823)

Year: 1823

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Ophrys

Vegetable: False

Observations: C. Medit.

Description

Bertoloni’s ophrys, scientifically known as Ophrys bertolonii, is a remarkable orchid species described by Moretti in 1823, as documented in the botanical work “Quibus. Pl. Ital. 6: 9 (1823).” This fascinating plant is a member of the Orchidaceae family, which is renowned for its intricate and diverse floral structures.

Originating and thriving primarily in the central Mediterranean region, Bertoloni’s ophrys is distinguishable by its unique and elaborate flowers that bear a striking resemblance to the insects that pollinate them. This mimicry plays a crucial role in its pollination strategy, a common trait within the Ophrys genus.

The flowers of Ophrys bertolonii are particularly noted for their delicate beauty and intricate patterns, which can mesmerize any observer. The labellum, or the lip of the flower, is often accentuated with vibrant colors and textures that precisely fool the pollinating insects, thereby aiding in the plant’s reproductive process. This exquisite adaptation not only highlights the complex interactions within ecosystems but also underlines the sophistication of evolutionary adaptations in the plant kingdom.

Bertoloni’s ophrys typically flourishes in habitats that offer the right balance of sunlight and shade, often preferring substrates that are well-drained. As with many orchids, it tends to grow in symbiosis with certain mycorrhizal fungi, which aid in nutrient absorption and ensure the plant’s survival in often challenging environments.

This orchid’s conservation status can be a matter of concern in some regions due to habitat destruction and the changing climate, which threatens its natural habitats. Efforts to conserve and protect the natural environments of Bertoloni’s ophrys are vital to preserving this species for future generations to admire and study.

In summary, Bertoloni’s ophrys is a botanical marvel, not just for its stunning appearance but also for its intricate relationship with its environment and pollinators. Its presence in the central Mediterranean adds a touch of elegance and signifies the delicate balance of nature in this region.

Common Names

Eng: bertoloni’s bee orchid
Ita: ofride di bertoloni
En: Bertoloni’s Ophrys, Bertoloni’s bee orchid
Fr: Ophrys de Bertoloni, Ophrys aurélien, Ophrys aurélia
De: Bertolonis Ragwurz
Hu: Bertoloni-bangó
It: Orchidea di Bertoloni, Ofride di Bertoloni

Synonyms

• Ophrys insectifera subsp. bertolonii ((Moretti) Moggr.)
• Ophrys bertolonii subsp. insengae ((Tod.) K.Richt.)
• Ophrys marzensis (Soca)
• Ophrys bertolonii var. dalmatica (Murr)
• Arachnites insengae (Tod.)
• Ophrys bertolonii var. landaueri (Appel ex Schulze)
• Ophrys bertolonii subsp. romolinii ((Soca) Véla & R.Martin)
• Ophrys romolinii (Soca)
• Ophrys bertolonii subsp. landaueri ((Appel ex Schulze) Asch. & Graebn.)
• Ophrys inzengae ((Tod.) Nyman)
• Ophrys bertolonii var. parviflora (E.G.Camus)
• Ophrys dalmatica ((Murr) Soó)
• Ophrys arachnites var. speculum (Durazzo)
• Arachnites bertolonii ((Moretti) Tod.)
• Ophrys penedensis (Kalkhoff)
• Ophrys bertolonii f. parviflora ((E.G.Camus) Soó)
• Ophrys bertolonii subsp. dalmatica ((Murr) Asch. & Graebn.)

Distribution

• Greece (native)
• Italy (native)
• Sicilia (native)
• Yugoslavia (native)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken May 11, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 11, 2018 by Pep Secem (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Apr 26, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 26, 2015 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 16, 2021 by franchi Gianni (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 25, 2018 by jose (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Apr 2, 2020 by Suteu Casandra (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1800 by Tela Botanica − Thierry Pernot (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 29, 2019 by patrick péan (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 23, 2021 by Alessandro Tonucci (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 22, 2018 by Fejul Xeto (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Apr 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2000 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2013 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Jan 1, 1970 by Photoflora – L’Abbé COSTE (©)

Fruit

Taken Apr 15, 2000 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Apr 15, 2000 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2792833)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:647787-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Ophrys bertolonii Moretti)

Specifications

Growth

Ph maximum: 5.5

Ph minimum: 5.0

Light: 8

Atmospheric humidity: 4

Bloom months: [‘mar’, ‘apr’, ‘may’]

Soil nutriments: 2