endemic

The genus Astragalus of the Fabaceae family includes over 3000 species worldwide and is known as the largest genus of flowering plants. Iran is considered one of the significant centers for the diversity and speciation of this genus. Astragalus ovigerus is documented as an endemic species from Iran. This study explores this species' population characteristics, habitat conditions, and conservation status. According to the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the conservation status of this species has been determined using three criteria, including Extent of occurrence (EOO), Area of occupancy (AOO), number of mature individuals, and population size and classified as Critically Endangered (CR). To prevent the extinction of this species, its only known habitat should be protected by the Natural Resources and Watershed Organization, and human activities should be limited in this habitat. Ex-situ conservation through the collection of seeds and their storage in the Gene Bank of Natural Resources of Iran can play an important role in the survival of this rare endemic species and conserving its genetic resources.

Scorzonera nivalis Boiss. & Hausskn (Asteraceae) is one of the narrowest endemic species in Iran's flora, restricted to the Schahu and Avroman Mountains. IUCN criteria and GeoCAT data (EOO= 339.736 km2; AOO= 4.41 km2) classify this species as Critically Endangered (CR). This species was not collected after it was introduced 156 years ago by Boissier and Haussknecht until 2013 when it was collected for the second time from Schahu Mountain. Later studies conducted in Kurdistan Province added other populations from the Avroaman Mountains to the samples of this valuable species. The most efficient way to protect this species is to help its propagation through seeding and sowing in other similar habitats in the Schahu and Avroman Mountains. Introducing Schahu Mountain as a protected area by the Department of Environment of Iran, preventing livestock from entering the top of the mountain, collecting seeds, and storing them in the Natural Resources Gene Bank of Iran are other effective ways to protect this valuable reserve.

Salvia bazmanica belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This species is endemic to Iran, Sistan and Baluchestan Province. Based on the existing literature, it is restricted to localities. This species is one of the few Salvia species with small flowers and woody vegetative forms in Iran. In this study, the conservation status of Salvia bazmanica was investigated through the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) using criteria including Extent of Occurrence (EOO), Area of ​​Occupancy (AOO), population size, and habitat quality. Based on screening the five populations, EOO and AOO were calculated as 10779 and 4.5 Km2, respectively. Furthermore, over-grazing and drought affect species regeneration. With emphasis on these criteria, this species' conservation status is classified as Critically Endangered (CR). It is necessary to prevent severe livestock grazing to reduce species' habitat pressure and ecosystem destruction. Ex-situ and in-situ conservation must be applied to conserve S. bazmanica. To protect the species, it is highly recommended that the Natural Resources and Watershed Organization protect the habitat of this species. The seeds should be preserved in the Natural Resources Gene Bank as an ex-situ program.

Scorzonera alborzensis is one of the exclusive and rare species collected and reported from only one place in the country (Mazandaran province: between Baladeh and Nour, Siahsang mountains, 3023 m). The genus Scorzonera L. belongs to the Asteraceae family and has 19 endemic species in Iran. Based on the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Area of Occupancy (AOO), Extent of Occurrence (EOO), habitat quality, population size, and natural reproduction of the species were evaluated. According to the field studies, the area of occupancy (AOO) and extent of occurrence (EOO) were estimated at an area of 0.01 km2 (only one locality), and the number of adult individuals is between 15 and 20, with a very low regeneration rate. Therefore, according to our studies, Scorzonera alborzensis is defined as a Critically Endangered (CR) species. Road construction and grazing in this species' habitat are among the life-threatening factors. As a result, the Natural Resources and Watershed Organization needs to protect this species' habitat. Further, ex-situ conservation must be achieved by preserving seeds in the Natural Resources Seed Bank, growing seeds, and cultivating seedlings in Iran's National Botanical Garden

Many endemic plants with limited distributions are in danger of extinction and their protection is a priority. Quercus castaneifolia is an endemic species distributed in the Caucasus Mountains and northern Iran. The conservation status of the species was defined based on IUCN Red List criteria and categories. The Extent of Occurrence (EOO) in Iran is 153172 Km2, and the conservation status of this species is defined as LC (Least Concern). Based on EOO, Q. castaneifolia is not a threatened species in Iran. We managed to collect plant samples and habitat information from 36 populations of this species in different habitats of the country. The Area of Occupancy was measured as 1339 km2 and evaluated as vulnerable (VU), but based on the forest measurement reports, the authors' studies, and field observations, Q. castaneifolia has a wide, continuous, and good coverage in the northern regions of the country from sea level to the upper heights of the forest, and is one of the dominant species, making plant communities as mixed stands with other trees, and regenerates well. So, considering all these data, we evaluate it as Least Concern (LC) in Iran. Nevertheless, because the Hyrcanian Forests are fragile and lowland habitats in Iran are threatened and changing rapidly, as well as high exploitation of timber and compaction of the soil at the base of the trees, all create problems for its survival and continuation. There must be regular surveys and monitoring programs on its populations, conservation status, and protection by Natural Resources and Watershed Organization. Furthermore, botanists should do regular periodical surveys on Q. castaneifolia and report its conservation status to the relevant authorities. Expanding its use in parks, arboriculture, botanical gardens, and forest plantations will significantly help to protect this valuable species in the country.

Wetlands are productive and biologically diverse ecosystems that increase water quality, control soil erosion, maintain stream flow, and absorb carbon. Identifying the fauna of wetlands has always been very important because in various studies it has been estimated that the life cycle of 60 to 90% of economic fish is related to wetlands. In this regard, a study was conducted to investigate and identify the fish of Sarab Maran wetland in Kermanshah province. Sampling was done between 1397 to 1400 with electrofisher. Five families, nine genera and 11 species of fish were identified in this wetland. The family Cyprinidae with four species, Nemacheilidae with three species, Leuciscidae with two species and the families Cobitidae and Poeciliidae each with one species were present in the wetland. Of the 11 identified species, six species were endemic to Iran. Due to the high and unique endemicity of fish in this wetland, in order to protect its fish, it was suggested that the construction of fish farm in this wetland be stopped.

Tanacetum sonbolii is an Iranian endemic species of Asteraceae that grows in west Azarbaijan, Tekab, Baderloo Village at altitudes 2380-2500 m. The conservation status of this species was evaluated and defined based on IUCN threat categories. It was evaluated based on the following categories: area of occupancy, the extent of occurrence, the number of habitats, and the number of mature individuals in populations. According to field studies and established plots, Tanacetum sonbolii occupies an area of 1 Km2 and an extent of occurrence (EOO) of 0.169 km2, with 150 scattered individuals in the area. Based on the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), it is a critically endangered species. Factors such as lack of proper development plans, road construction, and high traffic in the area due to tourist attractions resulted in the low quality of habitat and a decrease in population size. Therefore, special attention and conservation of the species habitat by the Natural Resources and Watershed Organization are urgently needed. Seed preservation and regeneration in the Natural Resources Seed Bank of Iran are necessary for species conservation and future recreation of its natural habitat.

Rosaceae family consists of 25 genera and 290 taxa in Iran. Among them, 85 taxa are endemic to Iran. The most important endemic genera of Iran in terms of the species number include Alchemilla, Prunus, Potentilla, Pyrus, Crataegus, Cotoneaster, Sorbus, Drymocalis, Rubus, and Geum, respectively. This family has unique importance with the predominance of its members in the vegetation of the Irano-Turanian region, Alborz and Zagros forests, and scrublands of transition areas. Some genera in these areas include Pyrus, Crataegus, Prunus, Malus, Cotoneaster, and Rosa. The geographical distribution of this family is in all parts of Iran in the central plateau highlands except the coastal strip of southern Iran. In addition to their valuable role in vegetation, Rosaceae members are also economically important in human societies due to having edible fruits. Medically, a number of them, such as Prunus, Cotoneaster, and Crataegus, are used in various drugs.

Nepeta makuensis Jamzad & Mozaffarian is an endemic species from the mint family in West Azarbaijan, Iran, distributed in mountainous areas with a relatively steep slope of Maku, Shut, around Barun dam in the altitude range of 1575 to 1770 m.a.s.l. Three populations of the species were studied based on IUCN Red List categories, and the extent of occurrence was calculated using GeoCAT software. Nepeta makuensis occupied an area of 0.75 km2, and the extent of occurrence was 15 km2. The total number of individuals was about 100, and all of them were mature and had a moderate freshness. The habitat quality was critical due to the construction of a dam, and the process of habitat destruction was high. According to the categories and criteria of the Union for Conservation of Nature, this species was classified in Critically Endangered (CR) category. Due to the habitat characteristics, the study of environmental factors is necessary for the conservation and reproduction of this species in botanical gardens. Furthermore, the in-situ conservation should be a priority, and necessary actions should be taken by the Forests, Rangelands, and Watershed Management Organization to declare a protected habitat for this species.

Nepeta balouchestanica is a perennial species belonging to the Lamiaceae family. This species is endemic to Sistan and Baluchestan province SE Iran, mainly restricted to rocky areas. In the present study, the conservation status of the species was assessed based on three IUCN conservation criteria and categories, including the area of occupancy (AOO), the extent of occurrence (EOO), and the size of the population. The results showed that this species was found in four localities other than the locality type (M. Taftan). The mean values of AOO and EOO were about 20 and 44.918 square kilometers, respectively. Based on these data, and according to the IUCN guideline, this species is classified as critically endangered (CR). The main threatening factors are over-grazing and consecutive drought. It is suggested that its habitat be conserved by the Forests, Range, and Watershed Management Organization, the number of livestock grazing in the region be reduced, and more sustainable use of habitats be made.

Hyoscyamus malekianusis a perennial herbaceous and saxicolous species. It belongs to the Solanaceae family. It is characterized by dwarf habit, racemose inflorescence and rather long pedicels. This species grows in cervices of rocks on slopes of M. Taftan, Sistan and Baluchestan, SE Iran. In the present study, the conservation status of H. malekianus is assessed based on IUCN criteria including the area of occupancy (AOO), the extent of occurrence (EOO), and the size of populations. The results showed that this species had restricted populations, which are growing mainly in rocky areas with deep slopes. The mean average values of AOO and EOO were about 0.5 and 40 square kilometer, respectively. According to the criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), H. malekianus is classified as a critically endangered species (CR). Regardless of being toxic and inaccessible for livestock on steep slopes, its small habitats are a transit point for livestock and are seriously endangered. To conserve this species, conservation programs are urgently needed.

Salvia sclareopsis Bornm. is a flowering plant from the mint family (Lamiaceae) of Iran and Iraq, distributed in the mountainous areas and almost warm regions of the Zagros Mountains in Iran and Mount Gmo in Iraqi Kurdistan. Salvia sclareopsis is a rhizomatous perennial plant with stems up to 27 cm long. The conservation status of the species was defined based on IUCN Red List criteria and categories. According to the field survey and standard defined measures in Geocat program, Salvia sclareopsis occupies an area 66.15 Km2 in Iran and Iraq. The extent of occurrence is 64865 Km2. Based on the Area of Occupancy (AOO), population size and the quality of the habitat, the conservation status of this species is defined as endangered (EN). Natural regeneration was observed in habitats through creeping rhizomes and seeds. Field observations have shown that the lack of proper management and overgrazing are the main threats to this rare species. Defining protected habitat by Forests, Rangeland and Watershed Management Organization, ex-situ conservation in botanical gardens and in plant natural resources gene bank are suggested to be considered for conservation of this species.

Pterocephalus wendelboi is a bushy species, belonging to Dipsacaceae family. This species is endemic to Hormozgan province, south Iran, distributed in M. Geno (Bandar Abbas) and M. Anve Pardi (Bastak) at 1800-2300 meters a.s.l. Based on IUCN guidelines, three criteria were used to evaluate the status of this species including extent of occurrence (EOO), area of occupancy (AOO), and size of the population. According to field studies and establishing plots, Pterocephalus wendelboi occupies an area of 0.003 km2. According to an analysis by GeoCAT software, the extent of occurrence was 412.5 km2. Based on this research, Pterocephalus wendelboi is assigned as a critically endangered (CR) species. In order to conserve this species, collecting the seeds and keeping in natural resources gene bank and doing research on species regeneration methods are urgently needed.

The conservation status of Tanacetum paradoxum, an Iranian endemic species of Asteraceae, was evaluated and defined based on IUCN threat categories. It was studied according to three categories: area of occupancy, extent of occurrence and the number of mature species in populations (based on field visits). The only habitat of this species is in the center of Fars (on the road of Sarvestan to Fasa, Post-e Chenar, Cheshmeh Mordi), in a cold semi-arid region. Its habitat is located in the Zagros area. Tanacetum paradoxum occupies an area of 560 m2 with scattered individuals in the area. Based on IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), it is a critically endangered species. The habitat of this species is affected by human activities. The field observations indicated that the lack of management and inappropriate exploitation such as degradation of habitat by road construction and the transport of vehicles in the region, mining, power pole, land use change, construction of the olive garden, and agriculture were the main threats to this species. Therefore, special attention and full conservation of the species habitat are needed.

Astragalus with more than 2500-3000 species is the largest genus of the flowering plants in the world. Iran with possessing more than 850 species is one of the most important centers of origin of the genus Astragalus, with high amount of endemism. One of the complicated sections among this genus is section Hymenostegis. Astragalus vernaculus Podlech belonging to this section is considered as an endemic species of Isfahan province and is distributed only in western parts of this province. Based on the IUCN guidelines and using three criteria including extent of occurrence, area of occupancy and number of mature individuals, the conservation status of this endemic species was determined and classified as “Critically Endangered”. In addition, some notes regarding the taxonomy of this species are provided. Due to the growing of this species in unprotected areas, in order to prevent extinction and degradation of its habitats, announcement of protected areas is necessary in these habitats.

Campanula lamondiae is a perennial, herbaceous and saxicolous species of Campanulaceae family. This species is endemic to Iran and has been introduced by Rechinger based on three specimens collected from the Hamza - Arab and Chang - Almas Mountains (Kurdistan province) and Mount Gheydar (Zanjan province). Recently, after about half a century, this species was rediscovered in three new locations in the southwestern mountains of Zanjan and was investigated in terms of conservation status. Based on IUCN guidelines, three criteria were used to evaluate the status of this species: extent of occurrence (EOO), area of occupancy (AOO) and size of populations. According to field survey and plot sampling, C. lamondiae occupies an area of 7.8 Km2. According to analysis by GeoCAT software (geocat.kew.org), the extent of occurrence was 3816 Km2. In order to conserve such an endemic and endangered species, seed collection and storage in natural resource gene bank and research on species regeneration methods seem necessary.

Poaceae (Gramineae) includes 700 genera and 11,000 species in the world. In Iran, about 136 genera, 485 species, 32 subspecies and 59 varieties from this family have been reported, of which 26 taxa are endemic to Iran. The genera Bromus, Stipa, Festuca and Agropyron have the highest share in Iranian rangelands. The genus Stipa with 20 species is one of the most important genera of this family in Iran. This family is the most important family of flowering plants in terms of geographic distribution, ecology and economics. The grains of Gramineae family directly contribute 60% of the human food consumption and indirectly about 20% of the world's protein diet. The most important weeds of the world belong to this family. Grasslands cover about 37% of land, and the livelihood of about one billion people from developing countries depends on them. Because of the importance of feeding livestock from meadows and grasslands, the United Nations considers the identification of them as a solution to the challenge of nutrition in the growing world population in the future. In a grassland ecosystem, only about 20% of the species belong to the Gramineae family, but the same number can produce about 90% of the total biomass. About 16% of rangelands have already been destroyed or turned into agricultural land. The restoration of degraded lands (including grasslands) is one of the biggest potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector. Management of rangeland grazing can play a key role in reducing additional carbon.

The main target of the author in this article is to introduce important influence of forests preservation on the biodiversity. There are a lot of complicated problems that are encountered today with increasing population of urban areas and excessive demand for finding shelters and places of rest and recreations. By increasing the educated population and needs of government and public sectors for preparing enough income to pay unforeseen and foreseen expenditures for these people, forests and rangelands are considered as a gift of god. That is why, over the years, regardless of the value added of forests in preserving water, soil, air, and plant and animal biodiversity, forests have been exploited, and with a set of factors mentioned in this article, conservation and preservation of biodiversity has been lost. In this article, it has been attempted to describe the plant species as the first indices of the forests and their classification in relation to the problems of forest degradation.

Echium khuzistanicum is an endemic species of Iran in Khuzestan province. The only habitat of this species is in north of Ahvaz (on the road of Ahvaz to Shoush, Alhaee village), Dez basin, and the warm steppe region. Its habitat is located in the Sahara-Sindian region. Echium khuzistanicum occupies an area of 100 m2 with a few scattered individuals in the area. Based on IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), Echium khuzestanicum is an endangered species. The habitat of this species is affected by human activities. The field observations indicated that agriculture and road construction were the main threats to this species. Therefore, special attention and full conservation of this natural genetic reserve are needed.