Eryngium ilex P. H. Davis (Apiaceae) Türünün Morfolojik Ve Bazı Ekolojik Özellikleri

Abstract

Abstract: Genus Eryngium L. is the biggest genera of Apiaceae, which is one of the most well-known families of flowering plants. Eryngium ilex P. H. Davis is one of the most spectacular species of the genus, represented by 27 taxa in Turkey, and its distribution is limited to the Munzur Mountains in the World. No research has been found except its introduction to the world of science and distribution modeling of the species. In this study, detailed morphological and some abiotic and biotic ecological features of the species were investigated. Climatic characteristics preferred by the species were determined by using bioclimatic variables and records of the species’ individuals. To determine insect visitors of the species and threats to the species’ habitats, we observed by visiting two populations of the species seven times between June and September in 2013. Morphological findings obtained from 10 individuals of the species were compared with the findings of P. H. Davis’ research. Compared with the original description of the species, it was determined that the species contains more variations than the specified morphological characters. It was found that soil properties of the species’ habitat were slightly alkaline, non-saline, clayey-loamy in structure, having less humus as organic matter, and chalky or non-chalky. It has been revealed that the distribution of the species highly related to the topographic structure of the habitats, according to results obtained from field observations. It has also been revealed that the species prefers harsh climatic conditions, and some visitors of the species may be harmful to it. In conclusion, the species has been re-described, and some suggestions regarding its conservation have been made.