Geographical Biodiversity of Orchids in Different Municipalities of Northern Samar, Phillipines

Orchids are one of the largest and most diverse groups among the Philippine flowering plants, harboring over 1200 species, varieties and forms. Thus, this study was conducted to identify the orchid species in nine (9) sampling sites, as well the anthropogenic activities and economic uses. Purposive sampling technique was applied in this study, which is form of sampling technique in which the selection of sample is based on the researcher’s own judgment that will fit in the criteria of the study. A total of seventy-four (74) varieties of orchids, belonging to eighteen genera (18) were identified in nine sampling areas which implied that Northern Samar are rich in varieties of orchid species, although anthropogenic activities need to be minimized to protect these orchid species.