The conservation status of the endemic species Astragalus montis-parrowii

Astragalus montis-parrowii Maassoumi & Nemati is a dwarf cushion species belonging to Sect. Aegacantha of Papilionaceae family. This alpine species is a local endemic species in Kermanshah province, west of Iran. The habitat of this species is located in the NE of Kermanshah city, with limited distribution at the pick of Parrow Mountain. 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. Based on field studies and plot sampling, Astragalus montis-parrowii occupies 0.0025 Km2 (2500 m2). According to our results, Astragalus montis-parrowii is defined as a critically endangered (CR) species. Although the difficulty of accessing the habitat of this species is considered an important factor in its conservation, at the same time, it is the main limiting factor for the expansion of its populations. Considering the topographic status of the habitat, this species seems to tolerate adverse conditions. Therefore, research on conservation and prevention of extinction of this species is of particular importance. Furthermore, the habitat of this rare and endangered species needs to be protected by Forests, Rangelands, and Watershed Organisation. The ex-situ conservation is also recommended by preserving its seeds in Natural Resources Seed Bank and cultivation in the National Botanical Garden of Iran.