People's Choice award
Small Parts Matter
for the Caladenia
By Sophie, age 10
Even the smallest parts of our world can hold immense value and make a huge impact. Right now, extinction looms over most of the attractive Caladenia genus, but currently, an exception is the Carousel Spider-Orchid. The possibility of endangerment for the plant is high as there are land clearance, poor soil conditions and habitat fragmentation, which means our actions can affect Carousel Spider-Orchids positively. These plants are a unique and exquisite treasure of our wildlife, with vivid colours and an otherworldly shape. The Carousel Spider-Orchid can grow eight to ten centimetres long and is native to Western Australia, so losing them means they will never appear on our planet again. This plant’s group is already almost gone from earth but isn't it our responsibility to save this resilient member?