Molecular Diversity And Identification Of Native Cymbidium Orchids Species In Vietnam Based On Maturase K (Matk) Sequencing

Abstract

The orchid genus Cymbidium has promptly diversified and has significant value in ornamental horticulture, the economy, ecology, and culture; however, its morphological classification remains debated. However, the actual number may be higher due to natural hybridization facilitated by pollinating insects and the existence of undiscovered wild orchid species in nature. To date, there have been limited studies on the taxonomic classification of Cymbidium orchids, making it difficult to categorize traditional Vietnamese Cymbidium species within scientific classification systems.Only a few species with clearly defined morphological characteristics such as stems, roots, leaves, and flowers have been classified based on published global data. In this study, 16 Vietnamese Native Cymbidium Orchid were identified by matKsequencing. Based on phylogenetic trees, we identified several species within the Cymbidium genus, including Cymbidium sinense (Tran Mong, Dai Mac La Dung, and Hoang Diem Vang), Cymbidium haematodes (Cam To) and Cymbidium aloifolium (Kiem Lo Hoi). However, the matK gene alone has some limitations in accurately identifying orchid varieties.