About the journal:
Pleurothallidinae is an installment-based journal devoted to citizen science research founded and edited by Kevin W. Holcomb, an independent taxonomist and horticulturist based in Atlanta, Georgia.
This research follows a structured, evidence-first methodology informed by a background in forensic pattern recognition and root-cause analysis. Species diagnoses are developed through comparative morphological and biomechanical traits, supported by diagnostic photography and controlled-environment cultivation. The results are presented in a natural history narrative format designed to make the science accessible to all readers, including those outside formal academic settings.
About the author:
Kevin W. Holcomb came to orchid research by way of a long professional career in evidence-based analytical work. Over 27 years in the financial industry, including 17 years in forensic review work, he developed a disciplined approach grounded in pattern recognition, root-cause analysis, documentation, and evidence-based reasoning. Those same strengths now shape his work as an independent researcher, writer, and editor.
His work reflects a broader commitment to making science accessible beyond traditional academic institutions. Through research, writing, photography, and cultivation, he is building a body of work rooted in natural history, taxonomy, and public engagement, with an expanding focus on the role of citizen science in understanding biodiversity.
He is available for speaking engagements for orchid societies, botanical institutions, and related organizations.
Lecture Topics
- The Evolutionary History of Pleurothallis sect. Macrophyllae-Fasciculatae
- Biomechanical Evolution in the Pleurothallidinae
- High-Elevation Orchid Culture and Controlled-Environment Systems
The research presented here meets all the requirements for valid publication of a new species as defined by the International Association for Plant Taxonomy (IAPT) and the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants.
Due to the ongoing nature of this research, there is no defined publication schedule. As research is completed, new installments will be published.
Fair Use Disclaimer:
This research is intended for non-commercial educational and informational purposes only. It contains material which may be copyrighted, the use of which has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. However, the copyright owner has been credited for their work.
Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for 'fair use' for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
It is available to download at no charge and is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution (Non-Commercial) 4.0 International License.
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About the home page photo...
The lips of several species of Pleurothallis: Left to Right, Top to Bottom:
Pleurothallis titan, Pleurothallis calogramma, Pleurothallis giraffa, Pleurothallis lacrima, Pleurothallis forceps-cancri f. rectapetala, Pleurothallis tetrachaeta, Pleurothallis dilemma, Pleurothallis tomtroutmanii, Pleurothallis tectosepala
Copyright © 2022-2026
Kevin W. Holcomb
All Rights Reserved.
ISSN #2834-1783
ORCID #0000-0002-0571-4462