The conservation status of the endemic species Convolvulus koieanus Bornm. (Convolvulaceae)

Convolvulus L. (Convolvulaceae) is represented with 57 species in the Iranian plateau. Convolvulus koieanus Bornm. is an endemic species of Iran, distributed in the Khuzestan and Lorestan provinces.  Based on the research method of the national research project, entitled defining the conservation status of the plant species in Iran and the IUCN guidelines, three criteria related to the extent of occurrence, area of occupancy, and the number of mature individuals in the populations were considered to evaluate the conservation status of C. koieanus. GeoCAT software calculated its Extent of Occurrence (EOO), 24377.917, recognized as the Near Threat (NT), and the Area of Occupancy (AOO) was calculated to be 24 square kilometers, recognized as endangered (EN). Based on field observations, the Area of Occupancy (AOO) of this species was calculated to be 0.19 Km2 for Khuzestan and Lorestan Provinces. According to the IUCN classification, it is in the group of Critically Endangered (CR); however, it does not qualify for this status, considering the number of habitats, sub-populations, and the number of individuals in each subpopulation. Based on the current data, we determine it as endangered (EN). This species is affected by human activities. The field observation indicated that road construction and grazing are the main threats for this species. The conservation of this valuable species as a natural genetic reserve is necessary. We suggest one habitat in each of the Khuzestan and Lorestan provinces be defined as protected by the Forests, Rangelands, and Watershed Organization. The ex-situ conservation needs to be planned. This species is easily propagated by seeds, and if its habitat is protected, it will regenerate and expand in the area.