Swiss Orchid Research Award 2006 (SORA)

Dr. Ernst Grell Max-Planck-Institute of Biophysics D-60438 Frankfurt

Project

The applicant wishes to elucidate systematically the molecular composition of the floral scents of fragrant Paphipedilum species of the sections Parvisepalum and Emersonianum, originating mainly from Vietnam. This will be done by applying headspace sampling and analysis techniques, where the sampling is adapted to Paphiopedilum flowers. The results are expected to provide interesting information with regard to possible pollinator selectivity, evolutionary and taxonomic aspects. All pollinators of the chosen plants are currently unknown. After having identified the scent components, corresponding synthetic compounds can be applied in traps to attract, catch and subsequently identify potential insect pollinators in the plant's natural habitats as an important future perspective. The project is part of a cooperation with Dr. Roman Kaiser, Givaudan Suisse SA, who kindly offers to carry out the analytical studies. The applied funding concerns only the applicant's part of the investigation.

SORA Sponsors 2006

The Swiss Orchid Foundation wishes to thank the following companies for sponsoring the Swiss Orchid Research Award 2006 (in alphabetical order):

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