Biological characteristics of the extremely rare, narrow-range plant species Potentilla porphyrantha (Rosaceae)

Abstract

Potentilla porphyrantha Juz. (Rosaceae) is a very rare stenotopic species with a fragmented distribution that includes small subpopulations in Armenia, Nakhichevan and Northern Iran. It has been assessed and listed in the Red Data Book of Armenia as a Critically Endangered species. The main threats to this species are anthropogenic factors (mainly the mining industry) and forecasted climate change. The purpose of this work was to identify the adaptive potential of the species, explore its conservation possibilities in ex situ conditions, assess the feasibility of its reintroduction into natural habitats, and evaluate the threat to natural populations from predicted climate change. The karyology of this species was investigated. The number of chromosomes and karyotype were determined using mitotic chromosome preparations from metaphase stages. During karyological examination of P. porphyrantha, it was determined that the diploid cytorace (2x), 2n =14 of this species grows in the alpine belt. Eco-physiological investigations were conducted to estimate the species' potential for adaptation to new environmental conditions. The study was carried out both in the species' natural habitat and in introduced environments, specifically the semi-desert and meadow-steppe belts (Yerevan and Sevan Botanical Gardens). Special attention was given to the species' potential adaptation to forecast climate changes by using meteorological data from both natural populations and the botanical gardens where the species was grown ex-situ. The individual features of specimens in different conditions were compared. The results showed that specimens growing in the meadow-steppe belt (Sevan Botanical Garden, 1900 m) are in very good condition, comparable to those in natural populations, and can be used for reintroduction into natural habitats.