Document Type : Rare and Endangered Plant Species of Iran
Authors
1
Assistant Prof., Research Division of Natural Resources, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Shahrekord, Iran
2
Associate Prof., Research Division of Natural Resources, Kermanshah Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Kermanshah, Iran
3
Research Division of Natural Resources, Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Shahrekord, Iran
4
Assistant Prof., Research Division of Natural Resources, Kurdistan Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Center (AREEO), Sanandaj, Iran
5
Prof., Research Institute of Forests and Rangelands, Agricultural Research Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), P. O. Box 13185-116, Tehran, Iran.
10.22092/irn.2025.368109.1624
Abstract
Most lithophyte species have evolved to grow under harsh environmental conditions. These species are characterized by high levels of endemism, yet their distribution is typically very limited. In addition to their adaptive traits, the aesthetic form of these plants—particularly their short-statured habit and cushion-like growth structures—has contributed to their widespread use in horticulture and ornamental gardening, especially in rock gardens. The genus Campanula, known for its unique beauty and remarkable diversity, is among the most popular ornamental groups in gardening and landscape design. Campanula candida is a narrowly distributed and endemic lithophyte species of this genus in the central Zagros, yet it remains relatively understudied. In this study, the conservation status of this species was assessed using the B criterion (geographic range) according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) guidelines. The results indicate that this species is “Critically Endangered” (CR). A detailed and accurate description of its botanical characteristics was obtained by examining various populations across its entire distribution range during different phenological stages. In addition, the habitat requirements, flowering phenology, and fruiting period of the species were documented and analyzed. Considering the ongoing environmental degradation caused by human activities and climate change, it is recommended that additional populations of this species be incorporated into protected areas and that their seeds be collected and conserved in the Natural Resources Gene Bank of Iran.
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