Morphological Diversity of <i>Dorystoechas hastata</i>, a Relict Endemic Species, Across Habitat Variability

Abstract

Dorystoechas hastata is a relict endemic species grown in Antalya, Turkey. The species is under risk of extinction due mainly to the uncontrolled mass collection for its pharmacological properties. The objectives of the study were to assess morphological diversity of D. hastata in its natural habitat, and the effect of habitat characteristics on the species diversity. The 59 genotypes representing 16 populations, encompassing the complete natural habitat, were morphologically characterized. Results revealed that the species was naturally located from sea level (4 m) up to 2000 m, in a wider geographic area than stated previously. It occupies different habitat structures ranging from forests, especially at lower altitudes, to the steppe regions with limestone slopes and stony sections at the higher altitudes. The majority of genotypes occupied either south, southeastern or southwest aspects. Results proved the existence of substantial variation within and among populations for morphological characteristics as confirmed by principal component and cluster analyses. The results are expected to aid better understanding of the genetic variation and distribution of D. hastata and may assist in cultivation of the species and selection of candidate genotypes for future conservation and breeding programs.

Seedling Growth Characteristics of <i>Celtis australis</i> L. Genotypes on Different Substrates Under a Limited Fertilization

“…The present variation among genotypes was unexpected. Even though the area of seed collection was limited, it has great potential, providing opportunities for breeders and nursery owners to introduce alternative new forms for landscape industry [35,48,49]. In a study by Kumar et al [8], eleven genotypes of C. australis were selected and tested in a nursery environment to identify suitable seed sources for plantation programs.…”

Genetic variation and population differentiation of Dorystaechas hastata endemic to Turkey: Implications for conservation management

“…According to genetic diversity, the Güllük (Termessos) population is unique, consisted with the results of heterozygosity and diversity indexes. Collaborating the genetic variation, Güllük population possessed the highest and Altınyaka the lowest morphological variations as well (Selim et al, 2021). The Güllük (Termessos) and Tahtalı populations have the highest genetic diversity, hinting that they survived from the glacial period.…”

“…Then, genotypes with highest diversity/value should be propagated and replanted in their respective habitats to avoid populations' extinction. For instance, the most morphologically diverse genotypes resided in Güllük and Üçoluk, and valuable variations for attractive flower types for ornamental use existed in Beycik populations (Selim et al, 2021). Threat category of the species has been identified as Vulnerable "VU" in the Turkish Red Data Book (Ekim et al, 2000).…”

“…The distribution of the species is restricted to Konyaaltı, Kemer, Korkuteli and Kumluca districts of western Antalya, Turkey, from sea level up to 2000 m altitude (Hedge, 1982). The species is a woody shrub with unique aesthetic appearance, possessing a considerable morphological variation for plant height (14-185 cm), plant diameter (40-620 cm), flower spike length (3-26 cm), and leaf size (Selim et al, 2021). D. hastata has been used in medical and perfumery industry due mainly to presence of intense volatile, aromatic oil and antioxidant contents (Meriçli and Meriçli, 1986;Venturella et al, 1988;Öztürk, 1990;Uluben et al, 2004;Karagözler et al, 2008;Erkan et al, 2011;Ozcan et al, 2016).…”