Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Horticultural science department, Agricultural faculty, Tarbiat Modares University
2
Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Isfahan University of Technology
3
Department of Horticultural science, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University
10.22092/mpt.2024.365319.1147
Abstract
Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff. is an endemic and endangered species of Iran. This research was conducted to investigate its distribution, geographical location, edaphic and climatic conditions, vegetation, phenology, and pests and diseases during the years 2016-2020. The results showed that K. odoratissima grows in the central Zagros Mountains at altitudes of 2000 to 3163 meters, with a cold semi-humid climate (minimum temperature of 2.6°C, maximum temperature of 17°C, and average annual precipitation of 1000 mm). The soil of the habitats was silty clay in terms of texture, rich in essential elements, and had a sufficient amount of organic matter. The release of aerial parts of K. odoratissima begins from mid-March to the beginning of April, and its vegetative growth continues until the end of June. The reproductive phase begins in the first half of July, and its flowers are formed from the middle of July until the end of July; then ripening and seed fall occur in the first half of September and the second half of September, respectively. Indiscriminate and incorrect harvesting, pests such as the seed-eating beetle (Anobiidae), a species of moth (Eupithecia sp.), and the larva of the Aethes francillana have put the plant at risk of extinction. Strengthening the role of local communities, continuous exclosure of the habitat, controlling pests and diseases, reintroduction and maintaining germplasm, and collecting populations in future programs can be very important protection strategies to prevent the extinction of this species.
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