Well there is a key in growing Paphiopedilums that I don't know if anyone has mentioned it yet. And that would be large root hairs! Very noticeable root hairs.
I do not recall seeing that feature any place else in orchids. They are not there in Oncidiums, Bulbophyllums, Vandas, Cattleyas, Miltonia, Phalaenopsis, Epidendrums, Angraecum, Sophronitis, no where else I can think of.
You will find them on Phragmipedium roots as well.
So what can be the logical reason for those fuzzy root hairs? I think that it could because of where they live and how they can best cope with environmental conditions. I mean I would imagine all of those fuzzy wuzzy root hairs increase the surface area of a root. That if true would maximize water absorption by the particular root.
Any thoughts anybody ?????
I mean most slippers live a very terrestrial life, yet I don't really know if we can really call them terrestrial in the real sense of the word. They do not live in soil but so many slippers live right on top of rock outcroppings. In the case of Brachypetalums from SE Asia the rock is limestone.
I really can't remember if I ever heard their purpose discussed? Perhaps for some they help a Paphiopedilum absorb and store water "in the lean times" as they wait for the Monsoon Season to start.