An assessment of the perceptions, knowledge, and socioeconomic factors associated with illegal orchid trade in Nepal: Implications for conservation.

Abstract

Combating illegal wildlife trade is a global conservation priority; yet, how social factors contribute to wildlife trade-especially of plants, including orchids-remains poorly understood. Here, we conducted in-person interviews with local people to explore their knowledge, perceptions, and socioeconomic factors associated with orchid trade. Generalized linear mixed models revealed that economic status, education, employment, occupation, perception, and knowledge were important factors influencing involvement in orchid trade. People who recognized orchids and engaged in farming were more likely to be involved in orchid trade. Conversely, those with sufficient food, employment, higher education, and perception that orchids are economically insignificant, were less likely to participate in orchid trade. These findings have implications for developing frameworks to address illegal trade of orchid and other taxa, especially in countries with shared ecological contexts where distribution of highly traded species often overlaps. This research recommends incorporation of social factors into effective conservation strategies.