Cephalanthera kurdica: Red Data Book of Armenia

VU* B 1 ab(ii,iii,iv) + 2 ab(ii,iii,iv)

Category. Vulnerable species. One sub–population is known. The extent of occurrence and the area of occupancy are less than 500 km2. The category is downgraded to VU since the population borders on the one situated in Iran. It was included in the first edition of the Red Data Book of Armenia (as C. epipactioides Fisch. & C.A.Mey.) under Category 2: Rare species. It is included in the Annex of CITES as representative of Orchidaceae family. It is not listed in the Annexes of the Bern Convention.

Description. Perennial herb 20–40 cm, with underground rhizome. Developed leaves few, less than 4 cm. Flowers pink or whitish; labellum divided by lateral constriction into 2 parts, with short obtuse spur. Ovary at base twisted, sessile, upright. Fruit upright. High ornamental plant.

Distribution. In Armenia it is found in Meghri (Vahravar, Lichkvaz) floristic region. AOO is 12 km2. Locations are 3. The general area of distribution includes South–West and East Transcaucasia, Nakhichevan, Anatolia, North Syria, North Iraq and West Iran.

Ecological, biological and phytocoenological peculiarities. Grows in middle mountain belt, at the altitudes of 1100–1700 meters above sea level, in the forests. Flowering from May to June, fruiting from June to July.

Limiting factors. Restricted extent of occurrence and area of occupancy, loss/degradation of habitats caused by forest devastation (timber cuttings), as well as excessive collection as ornamental plant.

Conservation actions. The part of population is situated on the territory of "Arevik" National park. Necessary: monitoring of the population state.