This is one of the most popular genera of all the orchid groups there are. The interest and amazement displayed by man in this genus has been one of great longevity. It is estimated that there are close to 70 species including the numerous new discoveries made in recent years.

Many of the species from this genus are now heavily endangered in the wild, due to over collection of plants to feed the demand for the commercial interest in them horticulturally and for the species collectors.

Collection of these orchids is illegal and one should strive to only buy artificially propagated species. "Oasis The Journal" is directly involved in the artificial propagation of many orchid species including many species from the genus Paphiopedilum.