Who can explain flower "crippling" to me????

[emmajs243]

Hey guys....I have been looking for a high quality C. dowiana for awhile now...There is so much variation in flowers forms so I decided to go read the judging guidelines by AOS to make sure I am aware of any issues with the species....Sure enough, I found that "flower crippling" is one of the most common issues with this species and yellow Cattleyas in general due to this species.

I think I have a VERY slight idea of what it looks like but I don't think I quite understand how it happens...I know this isn't completely understood either but can anyone somewhat help me out on grasping the concept?

I just don't know is this something that is resulted due to environment and is completely variable from year to year for a single plant or is it something more genetic where if a plant possesses flower crippling already, it most likely always will?

If anyone can provide a good photo example of flower crippling that also probably would be helpful too because I won't lie, I am basically guessing...

Thank you!!

I HAD posted this on the Cattleya alliance board but haven't had any responses and really had no idea where exactly to post it quite honestly....SO I have my fingers crossed that maybe it will be seen more over here in the beginners section! I apologize if this is not a reasonable assumption! I personally kinda forget about the lower forums and didn't even know 2/3's of them existed until recently!