This study explored aspects of the ecology of the late spider orchid Ophrys fuciflora; the management of the species at Wye National Nature Reserve; and the relationship between species above ground performance, land management and vegetation community structure. A population census was carried out for a 12-year period, the resulting data being subjected to analyses using statistical, matrix modelling, classification and ordination techniques. Proposals for appropriate management, and further study work are put forward. Implications of the study findings for wider conservation management of chalk grassland are also discussed. References to the exact location of the study plots have been withheld from the text.
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