NEW FLORISTIC RECORDS AND SPECIES OF THE FAMILY ORCHIDACEAE FROM THE MAJEVICA MOUNTAIN (BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA)

The aim of this study was to identify the orchid species present in the area of the Majevica Mountain (Bosnia and Herzegovina), with special emphasis on the territory of the Lopare municipality, and to assess their conservation status. Field floristic surveys were conducted during the vegetation periods from 2020 to 2025. Species identification was performed using standard floristic bibliography, while conservation status was determined based on relevant legal frameworks. A total of ten orchid species were recorded, with two additional species known from earlier findings, confirming the presence of twelve orchid taxa in the Majevica area. New floristic findings include species Spiranthes spiralis (L.) Chevall Cephalanthera longifolia (L.) R. M. Fritsch, Cephalanthera rubra (L.) Rich. and Orchis purpurea Huds. The habitats where orchids were found include meadows, forest edges, and thermophilous forests. Habitat preservation and mitigation of degradation drivers are essential for the long-term conservation of orchids in the area.