Exposed roots on Catasetum After Dark 'Black Pearl'

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A lot of plants in the Cymbidium tribe (like Catasetinae) send out upwardly pointing baskets of fine roots. The thinking is this traps fallen leaves and bits of organic matter, which provides more nutrition as it decays. It's very prominent in Grammatophyllum, but often seen in Catasetum and relatives, as well. If you search online you will find photos.