Consider the following statements about Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid):

1. It is an epiphytic orchid.
2. The species is endemic to North-east India.
3. It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 3
3. 2 and 3
4. 3 only

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

• Rhynchostylis retusa is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows on trees rather than in soil.

Statement 2 is incorrect

• The species is not endemic to North-east India. It is found across Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and extends to China, Indochina, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Statement 3 is correct

• It is the state flower of both Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, where it is known as Kopou Phool and is integral to Bihu traditions.

Answer: (b) 1 and 3; Difficulty Level: Hard