Campanula caucasica: Red Data Book of Armenia

CR B 1 ab(iii) + 2 ab(iii)

Category. Critically endangered species. Endemic of the Caucasus. The species has been found in Armenia recently. One population is known in the southern border of the main area of distribution of the species. The extent of occurrence and the area of occupancy are less than 10 km2. The species faces changes in habitat conditions caused by the expansion and exploration of gold mining industry and grazing. 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. Perennial herb with creeping rhizomes. Stems erect, 10–20 cm. Flowers lilac–blue, (1) 3–7 (10), in paniculate inflorescence. Rosette and lower cauline leaves (broadly) lanceolate, narrowed in petiole, equal to 1–2 length of blade.

Distribution. In Armenia it is found only in Sevan floristic region, in the surroundings of the village Sotk. AOO is 4 km2. The number of locations is 1. The main population of the species is situated in the easternmost part of the Greater Caucasus Mountain Range. Two locations are also found in Karabagh.

Ecological, biological and phytocoenological peculiarities. Grows in sub–alpine belt, at the altitudes of 2150–2250 meters above sea level, in the meadow–steppes, among rocks. Flowering from July to August, fruiting from August to September.

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

Conservation actions. No conservation actions. Necessary: monitoring of the population state.