Cephalaria nachiczevanica: Red Data Book of Armenia

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

Category. Critically endangered species. It is the endemic of South Transcaucasia and only one sub–population is found in the republic. The extent of occurrence and the area of occupancy of which are less than 10 km2. The species faces extinction caused by changes in habitat conditions in the area of Djermuk health resort. 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 herb, up to 60 cm. Lower cauline leaves entire, the rest with 1–2 pairs of small lateral lobes. All plant densely hispid. Flowers in capitate inflorescence, pale yellow.

Distribution. In Armenia it occurs in Darelegis floristic region (surroundings of Djermuk). AOO is 4 km2. The number of locations is 1. Besides Armenia the species grows in Nakhichevan.

Ecological, biological and phytocoenological peculiarities. Grows in sub–alpine belt, at the altitudes of 2200 meters above sea level, in the sub–alpine tall grasses. Flowering from July to August, fruiting from August to September.

Limiting factors. Restricted extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, recreational activities, haymaking.

Conservation actions. No conservation actions. Necessary: survey on population numbers and range, search of new habitats, monitoring of the state of the population.