Nature and the competition to survive

The small-whorled pogonia is found in 15 states but there are often only one or two populations in each state. (Photo courtesy of Sabri Ben-Achour)

A rare, endangered orchid inhabits the hollows of Virginia, surviving only in collaboration with a particular type of fungus and a particular type of tree. Scientists want to save the orchid, known as the small-whorled pogonia, but first they have to find it. National Public Radio’s Sabri Ben-Achour recently tagged along with Smithsonian scientist Melissa McCormick on a rescue mission. Click here to listen to his story.

Music: “Flower” by Amos Lee from Mission Bell

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