Fly orchid
Ophrys insectifera
Family: Orchidaceae
Fire effect on plant
This species is likely to be killed or top-killed by fire. Impacts are likely to be seasonally dependent, being most severe during flowering, and least in the late summer/early autumn when there is no aboveground biomass.
Key traits
A tuberous perennial, flowering from May to July. Leaves emerge in the autumn following a period of dormancy following fruiting (Foley & Clarke, 2005).
The seed of this species is dust-like and produced in considerable quantities. It can spread far on wind, although the majority falls close to the parent plants. A closed canopy and thick leaf litter potentially restricting germination of Fly Orchid seeds (Back from the Brink, 2020).
Plant response to fire
The direct effect of fire on this species is not described in the literature. However this winter-green species (with new leaves produced before the winter), may be damaged by fire throughout the year (except late summer where dieback and dormancy occurs). This species requires disturbance to prevent excessive competition and smothering from surrounding vegetation in fen and grassland habitats. Low levels of grazing or a cutting regime in the spring or early summer are suggested as suitable management regimes. Fire could be an alternative management tool, although it is not described in the literature.
Timing of life history
Perennial species. Seeds can be produced from 2-6 years depending upon the site productivity. Flowering May to July.
Conservation status
None.
References
Back from the Brink 2020. Insect Orchid (Ophrys insectifera). Species information guide. [Expert opinion; grey literature]
Foley, M. & Clarke, S. 2005. Orchids of the British Isles. Griffin Press, Cheltenham [Empirical evidence; Academic literature]
Stroh, P.A. 2015. Ophrys insectifera (L.). Fly Orchid. Species Account. BSBI [Empirical evidence; Academic literature]