Non-detriment findings for international trade in wild orchids from developing countries; A case study for Broughtonia sanguinea in Jamaica

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) requires that trade in species, including orchids, listed on Appendix II be authorised only if the level of export is not detrimental to their survival in natural environments. This paper describes how existing guidelines for a “non-detriment finding” (NDF) were adapted to provide a protocol for Jamaican orchids using the endemic Broughtonia sanguinea as a case study. The NDF format encompasses taxonomic and ecological information, statutory and conservation status, management practices, and trade data. As well as passing legislation to meet CITES requirements and conduct trade in all listed species, the government of Jamaica has approved a policy towards orchid conservation. The strategies in the policy cover conservation of species and their habitats, sustainable use of orchids, promotion of research and training, and public education. Although much is known of the morphology of Broughtonia sanguinea, an epiphytic orchid typically found in dry limestone forests, and insights into its distribution can be gleaned from sources such as herbarium records and incidental floral studies, a systematic survey has been conducted at only one of its known habitats. This highlights a fundamental issue in making NDFs, which is especially problematic in developing countries: lack of resources to adequately monitor populations of endangered and threatened species and particularly those traded on a relatively small scale. The available data on population density along with ongoing threats to its habitat indicate that the precautionary principle should be followed by progressively reducing the export quota for wild-sourced Broughtonia sanguinea. It is further recommended that artificial propagation of orchids be actively encouraged, and the export of all wild-sourced orchid species be phased out.