Asperuginoides axillaris: Red Data Book of Armenia

CR B 1 ab(i,ii,iii) + 2 ab(i,ii,iii)

Category. Critically endangered species. In the Caucasus it is known only in Armenia (Yerevan city). The extent of occurrence is less than 100 km2, the area of occupancy is less than 10 km2. The species is on the verge of extinction as a result of urbanization and the expansion of Yerevan. It was not included in the first edition of the Red Data Book of Armenia. It is not included in the Annexes of CITES and that of the Bern Convention.

Description. Annual plant 7–70 cm. Stems prostrate or ascending, covered with glochidiate hairs. Leaves oblong; petioles short. Flowers solitary, white. Silicle rounded, flat, 6–10 mm broad, covered with glochidiate hairs.

Distribution. In Armenia it occurs only in Yerevan floristic region, in the area of the city (Hrazdan river gorge, Nork gardens, Djrvezh). EOO is 30 km2, AOO is 8 km2, the number of locations is 1. The general area of distribution comprises Iran and Middle Asia.

Ecological, biological and phytocoenological peculiarities. Grows in middle mountain belt, at the altitudes of 1000–1500 meters above sea level, on dry slopes. Flowering in April, fruiting from May to June.

Limiting factors. Restricted extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, loss/degradation of habitats caused by city construction and expansion.

Conservation actions. No conservation actions. Necessary: special control of the population, search of new habitats, monitoring.