Abstract for Post: Molecular Diversity and Identification of Native Cymbidium Orchids Species in Vietnam Based on Maturase K (matK) Sequencing

Author(s): KHANH S.TRINH1, Thi Huynh Tram Le 1, Vinh Tien Nguyen 3*
Affiliation: 1,2Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology (HCMUT), 268 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Ward 14, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. 3Department of Earth Sciences, Joseph Ki-Zerbo University, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.
Corresponding Email: v.tnguyen@ujkz.bf

The orchid genus Cymbidium has diversified rapidly and holds 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. To date, there has been limited research 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 traits 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 matK sequencing. 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 limitations in accurately identifying orchid varieties.