The conservation status of two species of Nepeta (Lamiaceae)

The conservation status of two endemic species of the genus Nepeta including N. rivularis and N. assurgens of Lamiaceae family was evaluated and defined based on IUCN threat categories and criteria. Both species are herbaceous perennials and endemic to Kerman province and have more or less similar habitats. Nepeta rivularis is more hydrophilic and is present in waterside habitats, but in most habitats, N. assurgens is present in a short distance from the river. However, Nepeta rivularis has a more limited distribution. Both species are defined as “Critically Endangered” (CR), based on the area of occupancy (AOO), gradual population size reduction, low quality of habitat, interrupted populations and populations sizes. The presence of nomads and livestock grazing, as well as the widening of the river due to destructive floods and the settlement of nomads in the vicinity of the habitat are among the destructive factors of these species. Determining protected habitats by Forests, Rangelands and Watershed Management Organization, ex-situ conservation in Botanical Gardens, and plant natural resources gene bank are suggested to be considered for the conservation of this species.