Iranian Species Research Articles

The influence of climate change on the future distribution of two Thymus species in Iran: MaxEnt model-based prediction

Within a few decades, the species habitat was reshaped at an alarming rate followed by climate change, leading to mass extinction, especially for sensitive species. Species distribution models (SDMs), which estimate both present and future species distribution, have been extensively developed to investigate the impacts of climate change on species distribution and assess habitat suitability. In the West Asia essential oils of T. daenensis and T. kotschyanus include high amounts of thymol and carvacrol and are commonly used as herbal tea, spice, flavoring agents and medicinal plants. Therefore, this study aimed to model these Thymus species in Iran using the MaxEnt model under two representative concentration pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) for the years 2050 and 2070. The findings revealed that the mean temperature of the warmest quarter (bio10) was the most significant variable affecting the distribution of T. daenensis. In the case of T. kotschyanus, slope percentage was the primary influencing factor. The MaxEnt modeling also demonstrated excellent performance, as indicated by all the Area Under the Curve (AUC) values exceeding 0.9. Moreover, based on the projections, the two mentioned species are expected to undergo negative area changes in the coming years. These results can serve as a valuable achievement for developing adaptive management strategies aimed at enhancing protection and sustainable utilization in the context of global climate change.

“R” U ready?: a case study using R to analyze changes in gene expression during evolution

As high-throughput methods become more common, training undergraduates to analyze data must include having them generate informative summaries of large datasets. This flexible case study provides an opportunity for undergraduate students to become familiar with the capabilities of R programming in the context of high-throughput evolutionary data collected using macroarrays. The story line introduces a recent graduate hired at a biotech firm and tasked with analysis and visualization of changes in gene expression from 20,000 generations of the Lenski Lab’s Long-Term Evolution Experiment (LTEE). Our main character is not familiar with R and is guided by a coworker to learn about this platform. Initially this involves a step-by-step analysis of the small Iris dataset built into R which includes sepal and petal length of three species of irises. Practice calculating summary statistics and correlations, and making histograms and scatter plots, prepares the protagonist to perform similar analyses with the LTEE dataset. In the LTEE module, students analyze gene expression data from the long-term evolutionary experiments, developing their skills in manipulating and interpreting large scientific datasets through visualizations and statistical analysis. Prerequisite knowledge is basic statistics, the Central Dogma, and basic evolutionary principles. The Iris module provides hands-on experience using R programming to explore and visualize a simple dataset; it can be used independently as an introduction to R for biological data or skipped if students already have some experience with R. Both modules emphasize understanding the utility of R, rather than creation of original code. Pilot testing showed the case study was well-received by students and faculty, who described it as a clear introduction to R and appreciated the value of R for visualizing and analyzing large datasets.

A taxonomic revision of the genus Crocus (Iridaceae) in Iran

The taxonomic classification of the genus Crocus has undergone substantial revisions over the past half‐century. Likewise, over the last two decades, the number of known species in Iran has tripled with the discovery of 16 additional species. Despite these noteworthy recent findings, there is a lack of an updated taxonomic revision that encompasses all these newcomers. This revision of the genus in Iran is based on comprehensive morphological examinations conducted on fresh plant material collected in the field, cultivated plants, herbarium specimens, and an extensive literature review. Presently, 24 species are recognized in Iran. They are classified into two sections: Crocus and Nudiscapus. Notably, 18 species (75%) are endemic to Iran, with 14 among them being steno‐endemics, the five remaining species are subendemic elements whose distribution is limited to Iran and the adjacent countries. An identification key to all 24 recognized species is presented, accompanied by illustrations, detailed descriptions, distribution maps and information on the conservation status of each species. According to the IUCN criteria, the conservation status of all species, excluding C. caspius, C. damascenus, C. haussknechtii and C. michelsonii is at an alarming level. This revision aims to resolve ambiguities in the Iranian Crocus taxonomy, and offers the opportunity to collectively examine all previously described species in one comprehensive contribution.

A review of Odontiinae (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) of Iran, with description of two new species

The Odontiinae species of Iran are reviewed. Tegostoma pseudosarobiella Alipanah & Nazari sp. n. and T. tremewani Alipanah & Nazari sp. n. are newly described. Tegostoma moeschleri (Christoph, 1862) is considered as a senior synonym of T. uniforma Amsel, 1951 syn. n., T. lepidalis lepidalis (Herrich-Schäffer, 1851) as a senior synonym of T. lepidalis apurpurealis Amsel, 1970 syn. n., and Aeschremon belutschistanalis Amsel, 1959 as a senior synonym of Tegostoma marginalis Amsel, 1961 syn. n. The genus Autocharis Swinhoe, 1894 and five species, namely Aporodes dentifascialis Christoph in Romanoff, 1887, Cynaeda forsteri de Lattin, 1951, Aeschremon ochrealis Asselbergs, 2008, A. desertalis Asselbergs, 2008 and Autocharis fessalis (Swinhoe, 1887) are newly reported for the fauna of Iran. The redescription of female of Tegostoma confluentalis Hampson, 1913, male genitalia of Aeschremon belutschistanalis, and female genitalia of Epimetasia abbasalis Amsel, 1974 are presented. The hitherto unknown female of A. belutschistanalis and the hitherto unknown male of E. abbasalis are described and illustrated. The intraspecific variations of the species if present are discussed and additional new diagnostic characters to separate the closely related species are presented. Data on the geographical distribution of the Iranian species of this subfamily as well as their distribution maps are provided.  

Using leaf micromorphology to characterize Iranian species of Ribes (Grossulariaceae)

AbstractThis electron microscope study investigated the micromorphological characteristics of the leaf epidermis of 5 species (10 populations) of Ribes (Grossulariaceae) in Iran: R. biebersteinii, R. uva‐crispa, R. orientale, R. aureum, and R. khorasanicum. Samples were collected and identified, and the similarities between the species were evaluated using information from micromorphological traits of leaf epidermis and multivariate analysis (cluster analysis and principal component analysis). The traits useful for discriminating the species were presence or absence of hairs and glandular trichomes, presence or absence of granular with verrucae on hair surface, position of hairs on epidermal surface, hair location on the leaf (lamina, leaf margin, midrib), stomata shape, wax distribution on stomata, prominence and shape of anticlinal walls and outer periclinal layer, and epicuticular wax sculpturing. An identification key based on these leaf micromorphological characters is provided for Ribes species in Iran. The multivariate analysis of micromorphological traits was efficient for inter‐ and intra‐specific delimitation. The present findings correspond to a large extent with existing classifications.

Habitat potential modelling and the effect of climate change on the current and future distribution of three Thymus species in Iran using MaxEnt

Over the course of a few decades, climate change has caused a rapid and alarming reshaping of species habitats, resulting in mass extinction, particularly among sensitive species. In order to investigate the effects of climate change on species distribution and assess habitat suitability, researchers have developed species distribution models (SDMs) that estimate present and future species distribution. In West Asia, thyme species such as T. fedtschenkoi, T. pubescens, and T. transcaucasicus are rich in thymol and carvacrol, and are commonly used as herbal tea, spice, flavoring agents, and medicinal plants. This study aims to model the distribution of these Thymus species in Iran using the MaxEnt model under two representative concentration pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) for the years 2050 and 2070. The objective is to identify the crucial bioclimatic (n = 5), edaphic (n = 1), and topographic (n = 3) variables that influence their distribution and predict how their distribution might change under various climate scenarios. The findings reveal that the most significant variable affecting T. fedtschenkoi and T. pubescens is altitude, while soil organic carbon content is the primary factor influencing the distribution of T. transcaucasicus. The MaxEnt modeling demonstrates excellent performance, as indicated by all the area under the curve (AUC) values exceeding 0.9. Based on the projections, it is expected that these three thyme species will experience negative area changes in the coming years. These results can serve as a valuable tool for developing adaptive management strategies aimed at enhancing protection and sustainable utilization in the context of global climate change. Special attention should be given to conserving T. fedtschenkoi, T. pubescens, and T. transcaucasicus due to their significant habitat loss in the future.

Impact of climate change on the future distribution of three Ferulago species in Iran using the MaxEnt model.

The decline of habitats supporting medicinal plants is a consequence of climate change and human activities. In the Middle East, Ferulago angulata, Ferulago carduchorum, and Ferulago phialocarpa are widely recognized for their culinary, medicinal, and economic value. Therefore, this study models these Ferulago species in Iran using the MaxEnt model under two representative concentration pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) for 2050 and 2070. The objective was to identify the most important bioclimatic (n = 6), edaphic (n = 4), and topographic (n = 3) variables influencing their distribution and predict changes under various climate scenarios. Findings reveal slope percentage as the most significant variable for F. angulata and F. carduchorum, while solar radiation was the primary variable for F. phialocarpa. MaxEnt modeling demonstrated good to excellent performance, as indicated by all the area under the curve values exceeding 0.85. Projections suggest negative area changes for F. angulata and F. carduchorum (i.e., predictions under RCP4.5 for 2050 and 2070 indicate -34.0% and -37.8% for F. phialocarpa, and -0.3% and -6.2% for F. carduchorum; additionally, predictions under RCP 8.5 for 2050 and 2070 show -39.0% and -52.2% for F. phialocarpa, and -1.33% and -9.8% for F. carduchorum), while for F. phialocarpa, a potential habitat increase (i.e., predictions under RCP4.5 for 2050 and 2070 are 23.4% and 11.2%, and under RCP 8.5 for 2050 and 2070 are 64.4% and 42.1%) is anticipated. These insights guide adaptive management strategies, emphasizing conservation and sustainable use amid global climate change. Special attention should be paid to F. angulata and F. carduchorum due to anticipated habitat loss. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;00:1-14. © 2024 SETAC.

Analysis of Floral Scent Component of Three Iris Species at Different Stages

Analysis of Floral Scent Component of Three Iris Species at Different Stages

Lignohumate AM – prospects for use in floriculture and reproduction

Improving agricultural technology and supporting plant reproduction in the collections of botanical gardens remain relevant. Using the example of species and varieties of the genus Iris L., the effectiveness of using the preparation Lignohumate AM was studied. Root watering and foliar treatment of varieties with the preparation stimulated leaf growth. However, the preparation was ineffective for improving the decorativeness of plants. Treatment of plants with Lignohumate had a positive effect on the water regime of irises. Water deficit decreased by 2,8%−5,3% as a result of root treatment, water-holding capacity increased by 5,7% during irrigation and mixed treatment. The preparation had no effect on the germination of seeds of I. sibirica and I. pseudacorus, but was highly effective in long-term experience. Lignohumate contributed to a reduction in the loss of one-year-old I. sibirica plants by 20,8%, as well as the growth of surviving I. pseudacorus plants by 39,7%. The stimulator also showed a significant prolonged growth-stimulating effect, which contributed to improving the quality of seedlings. The length of leaves under the influence of the preparation increased by 64% for I. sibirica and 17% for I. pseudacorus, the width of leaves of I. sibirica increased by 14%. Based on the results of the study, the growth stimulator Lignohumate AM can be considered an effective promising preparation for use in floriculture and the reproduction of decorative, rare species of iris.

Correlation between secondary metabolites of Iris confusa Sealy and Iris pseudacorus L. and their newly explored antiprotozoal potentials

BackgroundIn the last few decades, the use of plant extracts and their phytochemicals as candidates for the management of parasitic diseases has increased tremendously. Irises are aromatic and medicinal plants that have long been employed in the treatment of different infectious diseases by traditional healers in many cultures. This study aims to explore the potential of three common Iris species (I. confusa Sealy, I. pseudacorus L. and I. germanica L.) against infectious diseases. Their in vitro antiprotozoal potency against Plasmodium falciparum, Trypanosoma brucei brucei, T. b. rhodesiense, T. cruzi and Leishmania infantum beside their cytotoxicity on MRC-5 fibroblasts and primary peritoneal murine macrophages were examined.MethodsThe secondary metabolites of the tested extracts were characterized by UPLC-HRMS/MS and Pearsons correlation was used to correlate them with the antiprotozoal activity.ResultsOverall, the non-polar fractions (NPF) showed a significant antiprotozoal activity (score: sc 2 to 5) in contrast to the polar fractions (PF). I. confusa NPF was the most active extract against P. falciparum [IC50 of 1.08 μg/mL, selectivity index (S.I. 26.11) and sc 5] and L. infantum (IC50 of 12.7 μg/mL, S.I. 2.22 and sc 2). I. pseudacorus NPF was the most potent fraction against T. b. rhodesiense (IC50 of 8.17 μg/mL, S.I. 3.67 and sc 3). Monogalactosyldiacylglycerol glycolipid (18:3/18:3), triaceylglycerol (18:2/18:2/18:3), oleic acid, and triterpenoid irridals (spirioiridoconfal C and iso-iridobelamal A) were the top positively correlated metabolites with antiplasmodium and antileishmanial activities of I. confusa NPF. Tumulosic acid, ceramide sphingolipids, corosolic, maslinic, moreollic acids, pheophytin a, triaceylglycerols, mono- and digalactosyldiacylglycerols, phosphatidylglycerol (22:6/18:3), phosphatidylcholines (18:1/18:2), and triterpenoid irridal iso-iridobelamal A, were highly correlated to I. pseudacorus NPF anti- T. b. rhodesiense activity. The ADME study revealed proper drug likeness properties for certain highly corelated secondary metabolites.ConclusionThis study is the sole map correlating I. confusa and I. pseudacorus secondary metabolites to their newly explored antiprotozoal activity.

Preservation and study of natural species from the genus Iris at the Subtropical Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences

Solving the problems of preservation and rational use of plant genetic diversity is one of the main tasks for botanical gardens and scientific institutions working in this field. In the Subtropical Scientific Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences, the collection of natural species of the genus Iris has been formed since 2000s. The paper presents research results on the following 11 species: Iris colchica Kem.-Nath., I. ensata Thunb., I. japonica Thunb, I. orientalis Mill.,I. notha M. Bieb, I. pallida Lam., I. pseudacorus L., I. pseudonotha Galushko, I. sibirica L., I. spuria L., I. unguicularis Poir. Most of the species are rare (6), rare and endemic (2). As a result of the studies conducted in 2020-2022, flowering terms for the irises species in collection have been established in the humid subtropics of Russia and 4 groups have been recorded. The first group with the earliest flowering (April, early May) includes I. japonica, I. sibirica. Average flowering terms (from mid-late May) are recorded for I. orientalis, I. colchica, I. pallida, I. pseudacorus. Late flowering terms (from late May - early June) are recorded for I. notha, I. pseudonotha, I. ensata. Late autumn-early winter periods - for I. unguicularis.

Introduction stability of rare species of the genus Iris L. in Botanical Garden of Irkutsk State University

We present in the article the results of an introduction test of three rare species from the genus Iris L., including I. notha Bieb. listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation, I. sanguinea Donn and I. setosa Pall. - in the Red Book of the Irkutsk region. We made phenological observations. The condition of plants after overwintering was assessed on a 4-point scale. We also learned the seed productivity and calculated the percentage of seminification. An assessment of the primary introduction of species is given. All three species received a score of 3 points - they successfully endure winter, bloom, bear fruit, form a sufficient number of shoots. The ability to seed reproduction is defined as satisfactory. Seeds are characterized by high rates of laboratory germination. The success of introduction for I. sanguinea - 90 points, I. setosa -95 points, I. notha - 85 points. The tested species are highly decorative, are actively used in breeding, and are promising for cultivation in the Irkutsk region. We propose a broad introduction to the culture of these species, which will support the strategy of ex situ plant protection.

Asafetida (Ferula asafoetida) and its Potential Risks on Respiratory Disorders

Abstract: Ferula asafoetida is an endemic species in Iran and is rich in oleo-gum resin with high economic value in the world. One important application of F. assafoetida is its traditional use for the management of respiratory ailments. The aim of this review was to collect papers dealing with F. asafoetida oleo-gum resin in respiratory tract’s diseases in modern medicine. For preparing the manuscript the scientific databases (Google scholar, PubMed, Springer, Science Direct, Magiran), books, thesis, etc. were searched using the keywords of “Ferula asafoetida”, “Ferula scorodesma”, “Scorodesma foetida”, “Northex asafoetida” plus “respiratory tract”, "respiratory disorder" “infection”, “cough”, “trachea”, “traditional medicine” up to Feb 2022 and the collected data were summarized, analyzed, and discussed. The results of the investigation confirmed the traditional belief on the efficacy of Ferula asafoetida in the treatment of respiratory viral infection (Coronavirus, influenza), cigarette smoking, asthma, cough and cancer, but most studies were limited to in vitro. There was only one registered randomized, blinded, placebo controlled clinical trial for 300 mg F. asafoetida aqueous extract capsules (three times a day for 14 days) on 40 patients with COVID-19 without any published results. Although, the studies implied the efficacy of F. asafoetida in the treatment of respiratory treatments, but design large clinical studies for evaluating its efficacy and safety is essential in future investigations.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pretected Areas in Preserving Habitats of Caspian Snowcock (Tetraogallus caspius), as a High-Altitude Specialist Species in Iran

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Pretected Areas in Preserving Habitats of Caspian Snowcock (Tetraogallus caspius), as a High-Altitude Specialist Species in Iran

The threat of a non-native oligochaete species in Iran's freshwater: assessment of the diversity and origin of Eiseniella tetraedra (Savigny, 1826) and its response to climate change.

Oligochaetes are the most abundant benthic taxa in aquatic ecosystems that play an important role in food webs. The present study aims to assess the diversity and origin of Eiseniella tetraedra as a non-native species in the Lar National Park of Iran and also its response to current and future climate change. We obtained the specimen from rivers and sequenced the mitochondrial gene Cytochrome Oxidase subunit I (COI) and combined them with 117 sequences from the Jajroud and Karaj rivers in Iran and native regions from GenBank (NCBI). We also ran Species Distribution Modelings (SDMs) using an ensemble model approach that was estimated according to two shared socio-economic pathways (SSPs): 126 and 585 of the MRI-ESM2 based on CMIP6. According to the results, all the samples examined in the current study originated from Spanish rivers, and no unique haplotype was found in the Lar National Park. Moreover, the results also show high haplotype diversity that can positively affect the success of this non-native species in different freshwater. Also, the results of SDMs depict that climate change would remarkably affect the distribution of E. tetraedra and it verifies the invasion power of E. tetraedra in Iran's freshwater ecosystems over time.

An integrative climate and land cover change detection unveils extensive range contraction in mountain newts

The global decline of amphibian populations, driven by anthropogenic activities, is a pressing conservation issue, with salamanders being of particular concern, as these species serve as ecological indicators vulnerable to environmental change. Mountain newts of the Neurergus genus, which are endemic to the Zagros Mountain chain from southeastern Turkey to northern Iraq and southwestern Iran, face a multitude of threats. Among these threats, climate change and land use alterations have been identified as major contributors to the decline of these species. Given the varying spatiotemporal scales at which these factors operate, in this study we aimed to assess the impacts of climate and land use/land cover (LULC) changes (LULCC) on the distribution of the Neurergus genus. We employed MaxEnt model to predict their habitat suitability under current climatic conditions. We projected the predicted model to the future, i.e., 2050, under two climate change scenarios. We then proceeded to map the LULC patterns of the identified suitable habitats for each species using Landsat satellite images, and conducted a hindcast of LULCC within these habitats for three time-slices 1988, 2005, and 2020. Finally, we evaluated the efficiency of current network of protected areas (PAs) and key biodiversity areas (KBAs) in Iran, Iraq, and Turkey to cover suitable habitats of the species. Our results revealed that climate changes would negatively influence all Neurergus species, with southern species in Iran and Iraq, i.e., N. derjugini, N. kaiseri, and N. crocatus exhibiting the greatest range loss. Conversely, LULC change detection indicated that northern species in Turkey, i.e., N. strauchii and N. barani, are more exposed to cropland developments and have experienced greatest habitat changes over the past 30 years. Ultimately, our findings underscore the insufficiency of extant conservation areas in protecting Neurergus habitats and urge the need for comprehensive conservation measures. We recommend promoting less strictly conserved areas, e.g., KBAs, implementing trans-boundary conservation plans, and designating new reserves to ensure long-term preservation of amphibians in the regions.

A Palynological Study of Some Helichrysum (Asteraceae) Species in Iran

In this study, palynological characteristics of 23 specimens of Helichrysum Mill., representing 12 Iranian species were investigated. We evaluated pollen grains (25 per specimens) and tested them by 15 qualitative and quantitative characteristics using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Pollen grain descriptions of most species were presented for the first time in the world. The pollen grains were tricolporate, radially symmetrical and isopolar in all examined samples. They were small, and rarely medium in size. The polar outline view (amb) was the same among the species. The overall views of pollen grains were prolate-spheroidal, oblate-spheroidal, subprolate, prolate and spheroidal. However, the more abundant type was prolate-spheroidal. The exine sculpture was echinate, and tectum is perforate. The ANOVA test revealed a significant variation (P < 0.001) for all the quantitative characteristics. In PCA analysis, the colpus length, width, and length/width ratio traits, polar and equatorial axes length, were the most variable features and some species were characterised by these characters. Results indicated that a few qualitative characteristics such as polar outline view and exine sculpture lack taxonomic importance via their stability among species. Also, the palynological traits had enough potential to separate the taxonomic boundaries of H. rubicundum and H. globiferum, but approximately the species clustering pattern did not agree with Flora Iranica.

Taxonomic diversity of racerunners with descriptions of two new Eremias species (Sauria: Lacertidae) from Central Iran.

We provide a diversity assessment of Iranian species of the genus Eremias based on the cytochrome oxidase I mtDNA gene fragment. We analyzed 93 genetic samples from the entire distribution of the Eremias fasciata species complex in Iran and surrounding regions, along with morphological data to support the description of two new species from Central Iran. We hypothesize that the diversification of the Eremias fasciata species complex was largely influenced by the fragmentation of sand massifs in the region. This same hypothesis has been used to explain the high level of endemism among the sand-dwelling species of reptiles along the Iranian Plateau in the same area. The two new species described herein can be distinguished from other congeneric species by their phylogenetic position and a combination of morphological characters. We use these data to discuss the taxonomy of Eremias based on morphology, habitat choice, and genetic data.

Comparing drivers and protection of core habitat and connectivity for two sympatric desert carnivores

Desertification alters wildlife distribution by reducing vegetation and water resources that are associated with habitat availability and quality. Therefore, in anticipation of these impacts from desertification, it is particularly important to understand and compare drivers of habitat and connectivity change for different species in order to identify those that have the highest conservation concerns and needs. Many wildlife species in Iran are expected to experience substantial changes in their habitat and distribution as two-thirds of the country show a high potential of desertification. Among these species, Rüppell’s fox (Vulpes rueppellii) and sand cat (Felis margarita) are two of the least known that occur sympatrically in desert and semi-desert ecosystems. Here, we assessed baseline habitat and connectivity conditions, and environmental factors that affect those conditions for the two species. We found that sand cat’s habitat was spatially patchy and fragmented, whereas Rüppell's fox habitat was more expansive and connected. Although the two species share some of the same area, our models show contrasting influence of some environmental factors in their habitat. For example, the sand cat’s suitable habitat was relatively warmer, with smoother terrain, and closer to villages. Whereas, the Rüppell's fox’s habitat was cooler, with rougher terrain, and at greater distances away from villages. Both species occurred in areas with more vegetation (i.e., NDVI in the model) and less precipitation. The contrasting response to temperature suggests that the two sympatric species might respond differently to warming climate. The overlap of the corridor paths and core habitats of the two species with Conservation Areas (CAs) was small. At least 75% of all predicted core habitats and corridors remain unprotected for both species. Further, most corridors are severely bisected by roads. Our findings highlight opportunities of designating new areas for wildlife habitat and corridors conservation and for promoting connectivity by limiting road impacts.

A guide to conserve amphibian species in Iran

ABSTRACT Globally, amphibians are one of the most threatened vertebrate groups and are hypersensitive to human-imposed habitat changes. Here we explore ways to conserve amphibians in two of the least-known biodiversity hotspots on earth, the Caucasus and Irano–Anatolian regions. We used two techniques: (ⅰ) combining species richness, endemism, and endangerness indices and (ⅱ) a species distribution model (SDM) to identify high-priority areas for Iran’s seven endemic and/or threatened amphibian species. The identified amphibian high-priority areas were then targeted to assess the levels of protection granted by the network of conservation areas (CAs) in Iran. We also computed the species-specific extent of occurrence (EOO) and the area of occupancy (AOO) to detect conservation gaps for the targeted species. Our results indicate that amphibian high-priority areas in Iran are mostly distributed across the Hyrcanian forest in the north and Zagros Mountains in the west. The gap analysis revealed that based on the most optimistic metric, 40% of amphibian hotspots are covered by CAs in Iran. However, the species-specific gap analysis showed that Iran’s CAs perform poorly at representing the EOO of all of the endemic and/or threatened amphibian species. These results suggest that expansion of CAs in Iran is essential for amphibian conservation.