Natural Hybrid Ophrys ×nouletii in the Aude Department

During a recent exploration across various locations within the Aude department in France, we had the opportunity to document an interesting orchidological find. On this occasion, we recorded the natural hybrid Ophrys ×nouletii (Ophrys scolopax × Ophrys sphegodes).

We observed two specimens of this plant, situated next to each other and surrounded by both of its parent species. This ecological context is crucial for the appearance of this type of hybrid, as Ophrys ×nouletii, originally described by E.G. Camus in 1893, is the result of a peculiar biological interaction. It forms due to a pollinator error during the pseudocopulation mechanism, which leads to a cross between two normally isolated species. Its scarce frequency in nature underscores the effectiveness of reproductive isolation barriers.

The presence of this nothotaxon in the wild is considered fortuitous, dependent on the spatial coincidence of the parental species, O. scolopax and O. sphegodes. This observation in Aude contributes to the knowledge of this hybrid's distribution and the specific conditions required for its occurrence in the regional flora.