(UPDATED: 28 Mar 2018)

Scientific papers presented at the 6th International Orchid Conservation Congress (IOCC6), are published in the Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society on 28 March 2018 in a Special Issue guest-edited by KFBG’s Stephan Gale together with Editor-in-Chief Professor Michael Fay. The April issue contains nine original articles on different facets of orchid conservation, plus an editorial that considers the steps that the orchid conservation community ought to take in order to bridge the gap between scientific research and real-world conservation needs, including a set of Resolutions adopted by IOCC delegates. The Special Issue can be accessed through the following link:

https://academic.oup.com/botlinnean/issue/186/4

The editorial, co-authored by Dr. Stephan Gale and Head of Flora Conservation Dr. Gunter Fischer, can be downloaded for free until June.

https://doi.org/10.1093/botlinnean/boy003

The 6th International Orchid Conservation Congress (IOCC6), hosted by KFBG and held at the Cityview Hotel in Yau Ma Tei, opened on 16th May and concluded successfully on 20th May 2016. IOCC6 provided a forum for the world’s orchid scientists and conservationists to share their knowledge, experiences and views on how to bridge the gap between science and practice.

Group photograph of excursion to KFBG

Opening speech by KFBG Executive Director Andy Brown

Lion Dance show organised by Hong Kong Tourism Board

Scientific sessions: Prof. Lawrence Zettler from Illinois College, USA.

Around 150 delegates from 27 different countries participated. The conference was divided into 13 scientific sessions with 59 oral presentations including four keynote talks, and also featured 26 research posters. The delegates visited KFBG on 18th May, with guided tours to give them a glimpse of our conservation and education programmes. The conference was highly appraised by the delegates for its scientific aptitude, applied take-home message on conservation and overall organisation.

Dr. Finn Rasmussen during question and answer period

Dr. Phillip Cribb during thematic discussion

Delegates visiting orchid greenhouse during KFBG excursion trip

The rare orchid Bulbophyllum bicolor in Hong Kong is a focus for local conservation efforts at KFBG.