Colchicum ninae: Red Data Book of Armenia

EN B 1 ab(i,ii,iii,v) + 2 ab(i,ii,iii,v)

Category. Endangered species. Endemic of Armenia. The area of distribution is fragmented. The extent of occurrence and the area of occupancy are less than 500 km2. The anthropogenic factor may lead to the worsening of the habitat quality and decline of the area of occupancy. 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 stemless herb with bulbotuber. Leaves 3 (4), lorate, narrowing at base, accrescent during fruiting. Flowers 2–7; perianth segments pink, with 10–15 distinct brownish or purple veins; on the back carinate with purple strip; or completely light purple. Capsule on peduncle, ovate, ribbed, with rostellum up to 3–4 mm long.

Distribution. The species occurs in Darelegis (Djermuk, Gushchi, Bartsruni, Gnishik) and Meghri (Verin Vardanadzor) floristic regions. EOO is 200 km2, AOO is 16 km2. The number of locations is 4.

Ecological, biological and phytocoenological peculiarities. Grows in upper mountain belt, at the altitudes of 2000–2100 meters above sea level, in wetlands. Flowering from April to May, fruiting from May to June.

Limiting factors. Restricted extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, loss/degradation of habitats caused by global climate change.

Conservation actions. Part of the population grows in the area of "Arevik" National park. Necessary: monitoring of the population state, search of new populations.