Study on ecological needs of medicinal and endemic species Pulicaria aucheri (Boiss.) Jaub. & Spach in Hormozgan province

The present study was aimed at investigating the ecological needs of endemic and medicinal species Pulicaria aucheri (Boiss.) Jaub. & Spach in Hormozgan province. Surveys were performed in three main habitats of the species including Bastak, Sirmand, and Geno. Analysis of habitat parameters in the mentioned areas showed that all measurement parameters except frequency were significantly different at 5% probability level. The mean canopy area, density, and frequency of this species were respectively 5.3%, 2611 plants per hectare, and 66%. The highest percentage of total canopy coverage, forage production per hectare, number of plants per hectare, litter percentage, percentage of canopy coverage, and plant height was observed in Sirmand region. The highest percentage of uncovered soil was measured in Bastak region and the highest percentage of stones and gravels was observed in Geno region. Analysis of regions soil parameters showed that all measurement parameters except soil acidity were significantly different at 5% probability level. The highest electrical conductivity, percentage of saturation, and soil silt was obtained in Bastak region. Sirmand region had the highest amount of lime and soil sand. Also, the highest percentage of organic carbon, nitrogen, and soil clay was observed in Geno region. The soil texture was loam and sandy-loam in Bastak region, sandy-loam in Sirmand region, and sandy-clay-loam in Geno region. The results of phenological studies showed that the peak flowering time (from early March to early April) is the best flowering shoots harvest time of this species for medicinal purposes. Due to the being endemic, having essential oil and antimicrobial effects, as well as severe grazing by livestock, it is necessary to pay more attention to this valuable species.