Conservation Of Plant Species Research Articles

Investigating Endemic Species Conservation Hotspots Based on Species Distribution Models in Swat Region, Hindu Kush Pakistan

For the effective conservation of plant species, it is imperative to manage habitat loss and fragmentation by establishing a protected area network that comprehensively encompasses their habitat. In this study, we identified the suitable habitats for some endemic plant species in the Swat District, Pakistan, to conduct a thorough analysis of proposed protected areas (hotspot areas). Utilizing data from a recent botanical survey, environmental parameters from World-Clim, and various other sources, we determined the habitat of each species using the MaxEnt species distribution model. The modeled habitat suitability for each species were combined to generate maps illustrating endemic richness (hotspots), as well as to prioritize areas based on conservation value and habitat suitability. Future climate projections spanning from 2000 to 2050 were acquired from the WorldClim database Nineteen bioclimatic variables were assessed, incorporating data from three global climate models: CCSM4, HadGEM2-AO, and MPI-ESM-LR. We modeled seven endemic species from the Swat District and, by combining their maps, found three hotspot areas which show more environmental suitability under future climatic conditions. The future model forecasts a significant decrease in population density by the year 2050. Currently, these species exhibit their highest density along the eastern and southern borders of the valley, particularly in the Karakar, Elum border, Mankial Kalam, and Gabral Kalam areas. The anticipated alterations in density and distribution could have a considerable impact not only on the tree species but also on the associated sub flora.

Biogeographic isolation and climate shape the evolutionary heritage of Neotropical inselbergs

AbstractAimQuaternary climatic shifts can explain the current distribution of ancient ecosystems as well as the current distributions of gradients that hold species richness and diversity of several lineages in old, climatically buffered, infertile landscapes (OCBILs) as inselbergs. Thus, the combination of phylogenetic approaches and temporal landscape connectivity allows disentangling the mechanisms involved in the origin of the disjunct distribution of plant species and the evolutionary heritage of Neotropical inselbergs.LocationBrazilian Atlantic Forest and Caatinga.Time PeriodPliocene until the current period.Major TaxaAngiosperms.MethodsWe used a compiled data set of 42 inselbergs across the Atlantic Forest and Caatinga biomes in eastern Brazil to describe their structure and phylogenetic diversity and map the landscape resistance distances and the effects of resistance on their phylogenetic beta diversity. We also aimed to identify the effectiveness of protected areas and gaps in the conservation of plant species in Brazilian inselbergs.ResultsWe found evidence of dispersal limitation in the inselberg species pool and a latitudinal gradient in plant species richness and phylogenetic diversity across the Neotropical inselberg landscape, with greater isolation between the northeastern and southeastern core areas. Our findings indicate that inselbergs can lead to a high turnover of phylogenetic diversity, thus imposing distinctiveness on the evolutionary lineages of the inselberg flora.Main ConclusionsOur results suggest that the current distribution of inselberg's flora in isolated ecosystems may result from a more connected distribution of this flora in the past, as postulated by the Pleistocene habitat fluctuations. However, the patterns of diversity have probably been influenced by events much older than Quaternary climate shifts, due to inselbergs climate stability areas (refugia) since ancient periods. Conservation of mountain vegetation is a crucial strategy for maintaining biodiversity and distinct phylogenetic lineages in the current rapid global climate and land use change scenario.

Seed biology imperative for conservation and restoration of Swertia thomsonii C.B. Clarke-an endemic medicinal plant of Himalaya.

Endemic medicinal plants deserve immediate research priorities as they typically show a limited distribution range, represent few and fragmented populations in the wild and are currently facing anthropogenic threats like overharvesting and habitat degradation. One of the important aspects of ensuring their successful conservation and sustainable utilization lies in comprehending the fundamental seed biology, particularly the dormancy status and seed germination requirements of these plants. Here, we studied the seed eco-physiology and regeneration potential of Swertia thomsonii-an endemic medicinal plant of western Himalaya. We investigated the effect of different pre-sowing treatments, sowing media and sowing depth on seed germination parameters of S. thomsonii. Seeds of S. thomsonii exhibit morphophysiological dormancy (MPD), i.e. when the embryo of the seed is morphologically and/or physiologically immature. Wet stratification at 4°C for 20days, pre-sowing treatment with 50ppm GA3 and pre-sowing treatment with 50ppm KNO3 were found ideal for overcoming dormancy and enhancing the seed germination of S. thomsonii. Furthermore, seed germination and seedling survival were significantly influenced by pre-sowing treatments, sowing media and sowing depth. The percentage of seed germination and seedling survival got enhanced up to 84-86% and 73-75% respectively when seeds were pre-treated with GA3 or KNO3 and then sown in cocopeat + perlite (1:1) at a depth of 1cm. The information obtained in the present study outlines an efficient protocol for large-scale cultivation of S. thomsonii thereby limiting the pressure of overexploitation from its natural habitats and may also help in the restoration and conservation of this valuable plant species.

A cryptic syngameon within Betula shrubs revealed: Implications for conservation in changing subarctic environments.

Arctic and subarctic ecosystems are rapidly transforming due to global warming, emphasizing the need to understand the genetic diversity and adaptive strategies of northern plant species for effective conservation. This study focuses on Betula glandulosa, a native North American tundra shrub known as dwarf birch, which demonstrates an apparent capacity to adapt to changing climate conditions. To address the taxonomic challenges associated with shrub birches and logistical complexities of sampling in the northernmost areas where species' ranges overlap, we adopted a multicriteria approach. Incorporating molecular data, ploidy level assessment and leaf morphology, we aimed to distinguish B. glandulosa individuals from other shrub birch species sampled. Our results revealed three distinct species and their hybrids within the 537 collected samples, suggesting the existence of a shrub birch syngameon, a reproductive network of interconnected species. Additionally, we identified two discrete genetic clusters within the core species, B. glandulosa, that likely correspond to two different glacial lineages. A comparison between the nuclear and chloroplast SNP data emphasizes a long history of gene exchange between different birch species and genetic clusters. Furthermore, our results highlight the significance of incorporating interfertile congeneric species in conservation strategies and underscores the need for a holistic approach to conservation in the context of climate change, considering the complex dynamics of species interactions. While further research will be needed to describe this shrub birches syngameon and its constituents, this study is a first step in recognizing its existence and disseminating awareness among ecologists and conservation practitioners. This biological phenomenon, which offers evolutionary flexibility and resilience beyond what its constituent species can achieve individually, may have significant ecological implications.

Shifts in plant‐invertebrate interactions between wild and ex situ conservation populations of a critically endangered tree

Abstract Ex situ conservation is an effective approach to prevent the extinction of endangered species. Biotic interactions (e.g. herbivory and pollination) are critical to ex situ conservation success, including plant establishment, survival and reproduction. However, shifts in biotic interactions between wild and ex situ populations are still poorly understood. We compared herbivory and pollination characteristics between the only wild population (WP) and three ex situ populations (LP, local population, nearby WP; NP, north population, ca. 850 km; and SP, south population, ca. 750 km) of a critically endangered tree species (Sinojackia huangmeiensis) to explore the latitudinal changes in plant‐invertebrate interactions. Larvae of the Limacodidae family were the dominant herbivores in WP, LP and NP, while the only herbivore observed in SP was snail. Compared to WP, the leaf herbivory rate was unchanged in LP but decreased in NP and SP. Leaf defence traits (total phenols, tannins, leaf thickness and leaf dry matter content) increased or remained unchanged in the three ex situ populations. A pollinator (Apis cerana) of S. huangmeiensis was present in the four populations. NP and SP lacked some pollinators that were found in both WP and LP, but they shared one pollinator that was not observed in WP and LP. The pollinator visiting frequency increased in SP, while it did not change significantly in LP and NP. Synthesis and applications. Our results suggested that both herbivory and pollination of Sinojackia huangmeiensis changed in ex situ populations, with complete or partial changes in herbivores, leaf herbivory rate, pollinators, pollinator visiting frequency and fruit set in the two distant ex situ populations. This work provides a unique empirical study of shifts in both antagonistic and mutualistic biotic interactions between wild and ex situ populations. We emphasized that it is essential to integrate herbivore and pollinator management in future ex situ conservation of plant species.

Gardens as drivers of native plant species dispersal and conservation

Abstract Gardens hold untapped potential for participatory biodiversity conservation. Conservation gardening has recently emerged as a way to foster declining native plant species in urban and rural green spaces. But the impact of cultivating these species on population trends in the broader landscape remains underexplored. This study examines the effects of cultivating herbaceous native plants on their long‐term population trends and endangerment, using Rothmaler's ‘Herbaceous Ornamental and Crop Plants’ in Germany, along with the German Red List of 1998 and 2018. It investigates whether native plants under cultivation are less endangered, examines the long‐term population trends relative to cultivation frequency and assesses the potential role of cultivation in improving Red List status. The findings reveal that cultivated species, especially those commonly grown in gardens, were less likely to be endangered. Moreover, commonly cultivated species had fewer declining and more positive long‐term population trends compared to non‐cultivated species. Some evidence suggests that commonly cultivated plants recorded on the 1998 Red List as threatened are more likely to improve their status, yet still a considerable proportion is in decline. These findings hint at a promising role of gardens as a means to support native species populations, but they also underscore the need for a nuanced understanding of which species are most likely to benefit from cultivation. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Cryopreservation techniques in genipap and mangaba: challengers and perspectives

The genipap (Genipa americana L.) is a native species of Brazil, found in various regions of the country, from the North to the South, including Sergipe. On the other hand, the mangabeira (Hancornia speciosa Gomes), another Brazilian tropical plant, is recognized for its fruits rich in iron and vitamin C, widely exploited by the pulp, juice, and ice cream industry. However, it faces threats due to urban development in the coastal region. To preserve these species, techniques such as cryopreservation are fundamental. This approach, which maintains plant tissues at ultra-low temperatures, allows the conservation of genetic material indefinitely, contributing to the maintenance of biological diversity. Encapsulation technology, which involves enclosing plant material in a specific matrix, is also promising in this context, offering a long-term preservation method for plant explants and embryos. These methods represent significant advances in the field of plant species conservation, providing effective strategies to ensure the survival of these plants in the face of environmental challenges and human development. The objective of this review is to address some studies involving cryopreservation techniques for genipap and mangaba species. Through cryopreservation techniques, we can achieve ex situ conservation for the germplasm bank as well as for plant regeneration and reforestation of areas. It is evident that there is a need to increase studies on the conservation of both species.

Atlas Florae Europaeae notes, 34. Distributions and two conservation profiles of East European species of the Cytisusratisbonensis group (Fabaceae).

The Cytisusratisbonensis group (Fabaceae) includes small shrubs with attractive yellow flowers, used in ornamental cultivation. It is widely distributed in southern forest, forest steppe and steppe zones of Eastern Europe, both in the lowlands and low mountains. This group is notorious for its taxonomic complexity and difficulties in identification, which accounted for incongruent taxonomic treatments and common identification errors, and resulted in a poor understanding of the distribution areas. The increasing availability of herbarium collections and accumulation of human observations through digital resources require their critical taxonomic revision and update in order to provide reliable data for plant species mapping, conservation and analysis of distribution areas. This paper describes a distributional dataset of East European species of the Cytisusratisbonensis group, which was prepared for the pan-European grid mapping project, Atlas Florae Europaeae. The taxonomic revision includes seven species and two interspecific hybrids and is based on the critical evaluation of diagnostic characters, nomenclature and synonymy. The territorial scope of this study is Eastern Europe, but it also includes some data from Central Europe, the Caucasus and the neighbouring territories of Siberia and Kazakhstan, which are included in order to trace eastern and south-eastern limits of the species distributions and to establish reliable synonymy. We report 3699 native occurrence records included in the dataset; these records are based on major herbarium collections which are known to hold specimens from Eastern Europe (DNZ, KRA, KRAM, KW, LE, LW, LWKS, MHA, MSK, MSKH, MSKU, MW), complemented by selected specimens from other herbaria (BUNS, CSAU, H, NNSU, NS, NSK, OXF, PVB, RWBG, TUL). The herbarium collections were examined largely de visu, but partly online. Besides the herbarium specimens, recognisable photographs documenting human observations on online platforms (florafauna.by, iNaturalist, Plantarium, UkrBIN) were also examined and included. All specimen records are accompanied with textual data and georeferences, which were produced for this dataset. Point and contour distribution maps are created for each accepted species. According to the distributional data, the Cytisusratisbonensis group may be classified as temperate lowland and steppic in Eastern Europe. Among European endemic shrubs, C.cinereus (as C.paczoskii) was assessed in 2017 as Near Threatened, whereas its new IUCN protection status is proposed as Least Concern because the new data demonstrated that its distribution area is much greater than previously believed. A species restricted to the Crimea, C.wulffii, is assessed here for the first time as Vulnerable because of its restricted area and small population size (criteria D1,2).

Plant distribution and conservation in mediterranean islands’ lentic wetlands: there is more than aquatic species

This study investigates the distribution and conservation status of plant species in lentic wetlands of Mediterranean islands. Field data on vascular macrophytes were collected from the online national databases of the “Conservation of the island wetlands of the Mediterranean Basin” (MedIsWet). A comprehensive inventory of wetlands was conducted, and information on the main anthropogenic impacts and conservation priorities was compiled. In addition to all vascular hygro- and hydrophytes, we retained information on those species typically adapted to environments with intermittent or temporary wetness. A significant knowledge gap regarding the distribution and conservation of plant species in Mediterranean wetlands was found. A lower endemism rate was observed particularly in coastal wetlands. However, approximately 25% of species, mainly with relatively wide distribution, were identified as endangered or with unknown conservation status. Including all macrophytes adapted to seasonal wetness is crucial when considering wetland conservation efforts. The research emphasised the importance of considering diverse wetland types, including seasonal and permanent, natural and artificial, for effective plant conservation. Artificial wetlands emerged as potential habitats with considerable biodiversity conservation value. This study provides a comprehensive inventory of wetlands and valuable insights into the distribution, ecology, and conservation relevance of aquatic macrophytes in Mediterranean islands. The research enhances our understanding of biogeographic patterns and processes, offers critical information for the management and conservation of Mediterranean island wetlands, and presents a replicable approach that can be applied to other wetland contexts.

Genomics empowering conservation action and improvement of celery in the face of climate change.

Integration of genomic approaches like whole genome sequencing, functional genomics, evolutionary genomics, and CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing has accelerated the improvement of crop plants including leafy vegetables like celery in the face of climate change. The anthropogenic climate change is a real peril to the existence of life forms on our planet, including human and plant life. Climate change is predicted to be a significant threat to biodiversity and food security in the coming decades and is rapidly transforming global farming systems. To avoid the ghastly future in the face of climate change, the elucidation of shifts in the geographical range of plant species, species adaptation, and evolution is necessary for plant scientists to develop climate-resilient strategies. In the post-genomics era, the increasing availability of genomic resources and integration of multifaceted genomics elements is empowering biodiversity conservation action, restoration efforts, and identification of genomic regions adaptive to climate change. Genomics has accelerated the true characterization of crop wild relatives, genomic variations, and the development of climate-resilient varieties to ensure food security for 10 billion people by 2050. In this review, we have summarized the applications of multifaceted genomic tools, like conservation genomics, whole genome sequencing, functional genomics, genome editing, pangenomics, in the conservation and adaptation of plant species with a focus on celery, an aromatic and medicinal Apiaceae vegetable. We focus on how conservation scientists can utilize genomics and genomic data in conservation and improvement.

Predicting Changes in and Future Distributions of Plant Habitats of Climate-Sensitive Biological Indicator Species in South Korea

Climate change has been progressing rapidly in recent years; consequently, current plant habitats are expected to change. Therefore, to monitor plant movement caused by changed habitat environments, certain plants are designated as bioindicators and managed accordingly. Monitoring changes in plant habitats is important for protecting vulnerable plant species and establishing suitable measures for vegetation environments with suitable plant species under future climates. As part of this task, South Korea manages climate-sensitive plant species for each biological classification group, including plants. Accordingly, in this study, possible current habitats were identified and future habitats were predicted for nine climate-sensitive species in South Korea under climate change scenarios (representative concentration pathways RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) using a species distribution model (SDM) and based on national data acquired through field surveys. The MaxEnt algorithm, with high accuracy, was used for the SDM analysis. The MaxEnt algorithm is a powerful tool that analyzes the effects of environmental variables based on occurrence data and indicates possible habitats. To obtain precise results, environmental variables were utilized by collecting comprehensive climatic and topographic data for South Korea. Based on a current habitat analysis, the model accuracy of nine species yielded a high value of more than 0.9, on average, which indicates the extremely high performance of the model. Under climate change scenarios, evergreen coniferous and deciduous broadleaf plant habitats were predicted to expand inland and to the north of South Korea. The results of this study provide valuable data for establishing future conservation and management strategies for climate-sensitive plant species in South Korea. In addition, the detailed environment variable construction method and SDM analysis method used in this study could be applied to the analysis of changes in comprehensive plant habitats caused by climate change in other countries.

Conservation implications of seed germination studies of Aquilegia fragrans Benth.: A native and endangered medicinal plant species of Kashmir Himalaya

Insufficient investigation of seed germination studies of threatened plant species creates practical obstacles to their conservation efforts. Here, we investigate the seed germination of Aquilegia fragrans Benth.-an endangered medicinal plant species native to Himalaya. The effects of stratification conditions including time (10, 20, 30, and 40 days), temperature (−4, −10, and −20 °C), and hormone treatments (250 ppm GA3, 30 ppm BAP, and 30 ppm Zeatin) on germination of A. fragrans seeds collected from the alpine belt of Kashmir Himalaya were examined. Seeds of species exhibited non-deep simple morphophysiological dormancy (MPD). Seed germination showed significant differences among the various treatments. It was observed that the application of GA3, zeatin, and BAP significantly improved seed germination as compared with the control. The highest germination percentage (73 ± 1 %) along with maximum germination index (1.05 ± 0.05) was recorded in T30 (Seeds stratified for 30 days at −10 °C and treatment with Zeatin 30 ppm) followed by T19 (seeds stratified at −10 °C for 20 days and treatment with zeatin 30 ppm). The seed germination studies of A. fragrans have not been carried out before, and the information gathered in the present study may prove useful for the conservation of the target plant species. The present study will help in the conservation, sustainable development, and restoration of this prized medicinal plant species.

Plant Diversity and Conservation Role of Three Indigenous Agroforestry Systems of Southeastern Rift-Valley Landscapes, Ethiopia

Woody and non-woody plant species conservation is one of the ecosystem services provided by agroforestry (AF) systems across the agricultural landscapes. Little attention has been paid to assessing the conservation of plant diversity in AF systems. This study was, thus, aimed at investigating plant species diversity, structure, and composition of three AF systems in Gedeo zone of south-eastern rift–valley agricultural landscape of Ethiopia. The study was conducted in three agroforestry systems, namely, enset based, coffee–enset based (C–E based AF), and coffee–fruit trees–enset based (C–Ft–E based AF) agroforestry systems. Twenty farms representative of each AF system were randomly selected, and inventory of the floristic diversity was employed in a 10 m × 10 m sample plot per farm. A total of 52 perennial woody and non-woody plant species belonging to 30 families were recorded. Of all species identified, 33 (63.5%) were native, of which two species, namely Millettia ferruginea (Hochst.) Baker and Erythrina brucei Schweinf., were registered as endemic. The highest proportion of native species was recorded in enset based AF (93.3%), and the least were in C–Ft–E based AF (59%). According to the IUCN Red List and local criteria, 13 species were recorded as being of interest for conservation in all AF systems. The woody species Prunus africana was identified as both vulnerable by IUCN Red List and rare for 25% of species that least occur. The Shannon diversity index and richness showed that C–Ft–E based AF systems were significantly different from the two remaining AF systems. However, the species abundance and evenness did not show significant differences between the three AF systems. In general, retaining such numbers of woody and non-woody perennial plant species richness under the AF systems of the present study underlines their potential for biodiversity conservation.

Orphan crops of archaeology‐based crop history research

Societal Impact StatementAgrobiodiversity is central to sustainable farming worldwide. Cultivation, conservation and reintroduction of diverse plant species, including ‘forgotten’ and ‘underutilized’ crops, contribute to global agrobiodiversity, living ecosystems and sustainable food production. Such efforts benefit from traditional and historical knowledge of crop plants' evolutionary and cultural trajectories. This review is a first attempt at systematically gauging species representativeness in studies of archaeological plant remains. Results indicate that, in addition to discipline‐specific methodological sources of bias, modern agricultural biases may replicate themselves in crop history research and influence understandings of ‘forgotten crops’. Recognizing these biases is an initial stride towards rectifying them and promoting agrobiodiversity in both research and practical applications.SummarySo‐called ‘forgotten’ or ‘orphan’ crops are an important component of strategies aimed at preserving and promoting biodiversity. Knowledge of historical cultivation, usage, and geographic and evolutionary trajectories of plants, that is, crop history research, is important for the long‐term success of such efforts. However, research biases in the crops chosen for study may present hurdles. This review attempts to systematically identify patterns in crop species representativeness within archaeology‐based crop history research. A meta‐analysis and synthesis of archaeobotanical evidence (and lack thereof) is presented for 268 species known to have been cultivated for food prior to 1492 CE from the Mediterranean region to South Asia. We identified 39 genera with known crop plants in this geographical and historical context that are currently absent from its archaeobotanical record, constituting ‘orphan’ crops of archaeobotany. In addition, a worldwide synthesis of crop species studied using geometric morphometric, archaeogenetic and stable isotope analyses of archaeological plant remains is presented, and biases in the species represented in these disciplines are discussed. Both disciplinary methodological biases and economic agenda‐based biases affecting species representativeness in crop history research are apparent. This study also highlights the limited geographic diffusion of most crops and the potential for deeper historical perspectives on how crops become marginalized and ‘forgotten’.

Ethnobotanical study of traditional medicinal plants used by the local people in Habru District, North Wollo Zone, Ethiopia

BackgroundEthiopia is a country located in the Horn of Africa, which combines richness in plant resources and cultures of human plant use. The people of Habru District of North Wollo Zone (Amhara Region, Ethiopia) have a long history of use of plant resources for various purposes including in traditional herbal remedy preparation and use. However, the district has not been adequately studied for its ethnobotanical resources and the associated knowledge. This study focused on human medicinal plants and their traditional uses in Habru District. The objective of the study was to document and analyze the plant species used by the local communities to treat human ailments along with the associated traditional knowledge and practices.MethodologyThe study was carried out in Habru District from June 2021 to December 2022. Ethnobotanical data were collected using semi-structured interviews, guided field walks, 13 focus group discussions (one at the district level and 12 at the kebele/subdistrict level) and market surveys. A total of 388 informants (250 males and 138 females) were selected from all 13 kebeles within Habru District using systematic random sampling, and 42 key informants were purposively selected. Descriptive statistics, preference ranking, direct matrix ranking, informant consensus factor and fidelity level were applied for data analysis.ResultsThe results provide insights into the medicinal plant diversity within Habru District, where 134 plant species in 110 genera and 54 families were documented, including 2 endemics, highlighting the district’s significance in biodiversity conservation and healthcare delivery. Disease prevalence analysis showed that gastrointestinal and parasitic ailments (ICF = 0.85), febrile diseases (ICF = 0.84), and culture-related conditions exhibit high informant consensus factors. Remedy preparation involves various plant parts, predominantly leaves (47.3%), followed by roots (22.1%), fruits (7.0%), and seeds (5.8%). Freshly harvested plant parts were frequently used (58.2%), while 24.7% involved both dried and fresh parts. Oral application (47.3%) and topical use (31.8%) are the major routes of remedy administration. The marketability of medicinal plants was evident, with 16.4% of the species reported as marketable, including Terminalia brownii Fresen. Myrtus communis L., Ruta chalepensis L., Olea europaea L. subsp. cuspidata (Wall. & G.Don) Cif., Allium sativum L. and Capsicum annuum L. Multipurpose plants such as Solanum somalense Franchet. (91.3% FL), Ocimum lamiifolium Hochst. ex. Benth. (88.9% FL), and Verbascum sinaiticum Benth. (85.7% FL) exhibited notable healing potentials.ConclusionThe current study underscores the intricate relationship between the local community and medicinal plants, emphasizing the importance of biodiversity conservation and health care and acknowledging the dynamic interplay between cultural heritage and ecosystem health. The results contribute to the development of sustainable conservation strategies, healthcare practices and the preservation of traditional knowledge, and highlight the interdependence of human societies and their natural environments. Community-based conservation initiatives with active participation of local communities are desirable for the conservation and sustainable use of medicinal plant species and their habitats. Raising public awareness about the sustainable harvesting and utilization of marketed medicinal plants (e.g., Terminalia brownii Fresen.) that are under threat is also important to ensure their availability for future generations and contribution to socioeconomic development.

Floristic diversity of plant communities in sandy wadis of the northern Algerian Sahara (Ghardaïa region)

Plant species diversity was studied in 20 sandy wadis of the northern Algerian Sahara (Ghardaïa region). Based on subjective sampling, 20 floristic surveys were carried out in the various sandy biotopes in February-April 2022. Through an ascending hierarchical analysis, we distinguished 3 phytoecological groups and assessed their functional, biogeographic, and abundance characteristics. The recorded plants represented 15 species (296 individuals) belonging to 15 genera of 10 botanical families. The most represented families were the Fabaceae, Anacardiaceae, Brassicaceae, and Poaceae. In terms of the real plant-life spectrum, hemicryptophytes (51.7% of individuals) dominated the sandy wadis, followed by chamaephytes (33.1%) and phanerophytes (15.2%). In the real dispersal spectrum, the barochores prevailed (60%). The real phytogeographic spectrum shows that the Saharan endemic element reached the highest share (32.7%). In terms of abundance, an analysis of the real spectrum revealed that very common species (52%) dominate in the Ghardaïa region, but some fairly rare plants were also found. Indeed, the sandy biotopes of the wadis of the Ghardaïa region are valuable habitats for the conservation of plant species in the northern Algerian Sahara.

First international training course on conservation of Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations

First international training course on conservation of Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations

Sustainable use of economically valuable and conservation of rare plant species in Almaty region

The paper contains the results of the initial cadastral survey and integrated assessment of the components of the flora (plant resources, higher plants and algae) of the Almaty region (2021–2023), which occupies a leading position among the economically developed regions of the country. The reserves of raw materials of 18 plant species demanded by the domestic pharmaceutical industry discovered on the territory of 13 administrative districts are of practical value. Eleven species of medicinal plants can be recommended for industrial harvesting. It is important to note that conservation efforts are required to protect 118 rare species of higher vascular plants and three species of lower plants, such as algae – indicating the vegetation’s current condition in the region. For the first time, the region’s list of rare flora species includes 13 species that have been categorized into IV categories based on the criteria and categories of the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The results obtained will serve as a scientific basis for regular monitoring and forecasting of effective environmental activities that ensure the sustainable use and conservation of plant resources in the region.

Ex-situ Conservation of Palms with Special Reference to Endemic and IUCN Red List Species in Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah, India

Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanical Garden (AJCBIBG) also known as Company Bagan, or Royal Botanic Garden and is one of the best landscaped gardens of the World. The garden serves as a hub for ex-situ conservation of plant species including native, endemic and threatened plants. The present paper deals with the holistic approach of palms diversity, endemism, conservation status, economic importance of different species of palms in AJCBIBG are discussed. AJCBIBG has 110 species of palms including 11 endemic and 46 IUCN Red listed species. Thus, it provides immense opportunities for research, education, also spread awareness about conservation, multiplication and utilization of palms to the society.

Composition and Utilization of Ethnomedicinal Plants in Kenyah Ethnic, Borneo, Malaysia

Ethnomedicinal plants are an important source of traditional medicine for many indigenous communities around the world. In Malaysia, several indigenous groups rely on these plants to treat a variety of ailments. The Kenyah people are one such group, and they have a rich tradition of using medicinal plants to maintain their health and well-being. In this study, we aimed to understand the composition and utilization of ethnomedicinal plants among the Kenyah people in Malaysia. We conducted a survey of Kenyah community members using a questionnaire and collected data on the plant species they use, the parts of the plants that are used, the methods of preparation and administration, and the ailments that the plants are used to treat. We found that the Kenyah people use a wide variety of plant species for medicinal purposes and that these plants are used to treat a range of ailments, including diabetes, release urine, pain relief and digestive disorders. The plants are prepared and administered in a number of different ways, including boiling, sun drying and grounding; and also administered either internally or externally. The Bland-Altman plot for agreement analysis revealed that the mean difference between the two sets of measurements i.e demographic description of respondents and method of uses for reported medicinal plants was small and within the limits of agreement. Our results provide important insights into the medicinal plant practices of the Kenyah people and add to our understanding of the traditional medicine practices of indigenous communities in Malaysia. Further research is needed to fully understand the medicinal properties of these plants and the optimal ways in which they should be used to treat various ailments. This research can inform the development of new pharmaceuticals, and contribute to the conservation of important plant species. It is also a valuable resource for understanding the cultural and social context in which these plants are used, ...