O. heterochila was
originally described by Renz and Taubenheim from Mugla, Turkey in 1980
but a similar species was subsequently described by Kretzschmar and
Kreutz from Rhodes as O. dodekanensis in 2001. Following research by Paulus and Hirth into the former taxon it was revealed
that the two species were in fact synonymous and the name heterochila (meaning "variable lip") was retained.
O. heterochila was originally thought to be endemic to Rhodes but has subsequently been discovered (albeit rarely) on other of the Aegean islands, notably Chios, Samos and Lesbos. It is also thought to be present in small numbers in a few locations along the neighbouring Aegean coast and hinterland of Anatolia. The full range of this taxon has however yet to be established.
O. heterochila is a member of the 17 strong, eastern Mediterranean O. heldreichii group, which although local, can be abundant in its stronghold on Rhodes. It is close in size to the similar O. minutula, although confusion is unlikely on Rhodes as it is not thought to occur there. O. cornutula however is widespread on all the bigger Aegean islands and being a similarly small-flowered Ophrys can be the source of misidentification. A key differentiator between the two species is the more colourful, complex speculum pattern and long lateral lobes (horns) of O. cornutula.
On Samos where O. minutula may be found, albeit uncommonly, O. heterochila may be distinguished by its larger leaf rosette and more sturdy appearance. The flower of O. minutula is also slimmer and significantly more colourful.
The pictures are from Rhodes and Chios, dating from the first week of April.
O. heterochila was originally thought to be endemic to Rhodes but has subsequently been discovered (albeit rarely) on other of the Aegean islands, notably Chios, Samos and Lesbos. It is also thought to be present in small numbers in a few locations along the neighbouring Aegean coast and hinterland of Anatolia. The full range of this taxon has however yet to be established.
O. heterochila is a member of the 17 strong, eastern Mediterranean O. heldreichii group, which although local, can be abundant in its stronghold on Rhodes. It is close in size to the similar O. minutula, although confusion is unlikely on Rhodes as it is not thought to occur there. O. cornutula however is widespread on all the bigger Aegean islands and being a similarly small-flowered Ophrys can be the source of misidentification. A key differentiator between the two species is the more colourful, complex speculum pattern and long lateral lobes (horns) of O. cornutula.
On Samos where O. minutula may be found, albeit uncommonly, O. heterochila may be distinguished by its larger leaf rosette and more sturdy appearance. The flower of O. minutula is also slimmer and significantly more colourful.
The pictures are from Rhodes and Chios, dating from the first week of April.
