Morphological And Some Ecological Chaceristics Of Eryngium ilex P. H. Davis (Apiaceae)

Abstract: Genus Eryngium L. is the biggest genera of Apiaceae, which is one of the most\rwell-known families of flowering plants. Eryngium ilex P. H. Davis is one of the most\rspectacular species of the genus, represented by 27 taxa in Turkey, and its distribution is\rlimited to the Munzur Mountains in the World. No research has been found except\rits introduction to the world of science and distribution modeling of the species. In this study,\rdetailed morphological and some abiotic and biotic ecological features of the species were\rinvestigated. Climatic characteristics preferred by the species were determined by using\rbioclimatic variables and records of the species’ individuals. To determine insect visitors of\rthe species and threats to the species’ habitats, we observed by visiting two populations of the\rspecies seven times between June and September in 2013. Morphological findings obtained\rfrom 10 individuals of the species were compared with the findings of P. H. Davis’ research.\rCompared with the original description of the species, it was determined that the species\rcontains more variations than the specified morphological characters. It was found that soil\rproperties of the species’ habitat were slightly alkaline, non-saline, clayey-loamy in structure,\rhaving less humus as organic matter, and chalky or non-chalky. It has been revealed that the\rdistribution of the species highly related to the topographic structure of the habitats, according\rto results obtained from field observations. It has also been revealed that the species prefers\rharsh climatic conditions, and some visitors of the species may be harmful to it. In conclusion,\rthe species has been re-described, and some suggestions regarding its conservation have been\rmade.