Peltariopsis grossheimii: Red Data Book of Armenia

CR B1 ab(iii) + 2 ab (iii)

Category. Critically endangered species. Endemic of South Transcaucasia. In Armenia it grows only in one floristic region. The extent of occurrence and the area of occupancy are less than 10 km2. The species is on the verge of extinction as a result of changes and loss of habitat conditions. It was included in the first edition of the Red Data Book of Armenia under Category 1: Endangered species. It is not included in the Annexes of CITES and that of the Bern Convention.

Description. Perennial tender herb (5) 10–20 cm with prostrate branched stems. Basal leaves rounded, with long petioles; cauline ones oblong–spathulate, narrowed at base. Raceme dense. Flowers white. Silicle 4–6 (8) x 2–3 mm, on patent, filiform fructifer pedicels.

Distribution. In Armenia it grows only in Meghri (surroundings of Agarak) floristic region. AOO is 4 km2, the number of locations is 1. Besides Armenia the species grows in Nakhichevan.

Ecological, biological and phytocoenological peculiarities. Grows in lower mountain belt, at the altitudes of 500–900 meters above sea level, on stony slopes. Flowering from April to May, fruiting in May.

Limiting factors. Restricted extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, loss/degradation of habitats caused by development of mining industry in the area.

Conservation actions. No conservation actions. Necessary: survey on population numbers and range, search of new habitats, monitoring of the state of the population, establishment of new specially protected area in the vicinity of Agarak town in Meghri region.