The genus Acianthus, while they are not particularly colourful (being
small, brownish and very easily overlooked) they indicate why we are so
interested in our orchids. Most orchid books list 2 Victorian species,
caudatus and excertis. However, in 1991 excertis was divided into 2,
excertis and pusillus. Then there were 3 and we have found 3. Then a new
species (collinus) was identified in 1999 at Wodonga. Acianthus
means spikey petals, and caudatus particularly illustrates this aspect.
Note the resting insect on this flower. Acianthus attract pollinating
insects by odour and offer a nectar reward. Acianthus caudatus is
described as smelling like a wet dog. I wonder what the nectar tastes
like?