
19.04.2018. Ophrys kopetdagensis was discovered and described in 1982 in Aydere and Pordere Gorges adjoin to Sumbar Valley. Herbarium samples of those times were sent to Saint Petersburg and lost, therefore the independence of this species was not recognized by the world orchid specialists.
The destiny of the plant was solved in 2015 by the trip of the scientists to Pordere Gorge, which downstream is located on 1000 m height above the sea level. This is narrow strip surrounded by sheer fine-grained slopes of high ranges rich with big species of almond, pillow Xerophytes and diversity of grass. There are bushes of thorny and unique plant Gundelia tournefortii. The path from the creek up the hills runs through sycamores, walnuts and other vegetation species. The oasis strikes with its beauty, cascades of small waterfalls. There is plenty of swamp areas with numerous hydrophilic grasses and sedges. Population of four blooming orchids distinguished by from common and famous Ophrys kopetdagensis was found under the shade of big sycamores in one of these areas. The scientists made several photos dried one sample for herbarium.
The photo materials were sent to orchid specialists. The discovery raised keen interest. Soon after that, German magazine “Orchids of Europe” published the article prepared by Turkmen botanists together with Finnish and Dutch specialists. It presented new species of wild orchids – the Ophrys kopetdagensis. Unique status of this species was officially recognized. During the second expedition to Pordere Gourse, the number of plants were 150 speicies. Turkmen botanists consider the plant as an endemic specific to local place that requires the protection and entering to the Red Book.