First Encounter with Ophrys funerea in Aude

During a recent exploration across various locations within the Aude department in France, we had the opportunity to document the presence of Ophrys funerea. This robust terrestrial orchid, whose specific name, funerea, meaning "funereal" or "mournful," derives from the extremely dark colors of its labellum, was observed at several points along our route. It marked a notable personal first encounter with this species.

The specimens found, which tend to grow gregariously, typically stood between 10 and 20 cm tall and bore a small number of flowers per inflorescence. Their flowers displayed the characteristic almost black or slightly purplish labellum, with a thin greenish edge and a density of short white hairs. The shiny speculum, deeply divided into two light blue-grey crescent-shaped parts, was clearly visible. We encountered this orchid in environments consistent with its ecological preferences, likely on calcareous or neutral, well-drained, and stony soils, in full sun or semi-shade, within its primary spring flowering period from late March to early May. This record enriches the understanding of its distribution in the Aude department.