Assessment of Populations Centaurea pseudoscabiosa Boiss. et Buhse (Ordubad District, Azerbaijan)

Abstract

The structure and morphometric parameters of three populations of Centaurea pseudoscabiosa Boiss. et Buhse were studied, and measures to protect the area were determined. Communities containing this species are described. 56 species from 21 families and 48 genera were identified. The predominant number of species are from the families Asteraceae, Rosaceae and Fabaceae. Perennial grasses and xerophytes dominate. The difference in the number of species in communities and differences in morphometric parameters of generative specimens of Centaurea pseudoscabiosa can be explained by the microclimate conditions of the habitat. The age spectrum of the populations is dominated by young and middle-aged individuals of Centaurea pseudoscabiosa. Populations P1 and P3 can be characterized as stable middle-aged, population P2 — as stable young. The information obtained can form the basis for establishing a monitoring program for other rare, endemic and endangered plant populations in order to protect the rare endemic plant in its natural habitat.