Abstract
For the first time, the features of rare endemic species of Caucasus Arafoe aromatica biology in the Ritsa Strict Nature Reserve (Republic of Abkhazia) were studied. The age, vitality structure of coenopopulations (CP) and the variability of morphometric parameters were determined. The study was carried out using standard methods of population biology. The variability of morphometric parameters was studied on 25 middle-aged plants in each CP. The CP density is low (1–2.6 ind./m2). According to the delta-omega classification, one CP is transitional, and one is mature. Most of the morphological features are characterized by a normal degree of variation (14.7–37.0%). Vitality analysis showed that one CP is prosperous, the other is depressed. The state of the studied A. aromatica coenopopulations is satisfactory. Anthropogenic disturbances lead to a decrease in the number and seed productivity, worsening conditions for seed germination and renewal processes. To preserve the rare species, it is necessary to limit the anthropogenic load in the places of growth, prohibit the collection of plants by the population, monitor and control the CP state.