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The Ogasawara Islands, one of the UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site located about 1000 km south of Japan's main island, harbor numerous endemic species, many of which are as endangered. One of the endemic plant species, Lobelia boninensis, found in the Mukojima, Chichijima, and Hahajima archipelagoes, is endangered due to predation. As part of conservation efforts, translocation is now underway, especially on Chichijima. However, we lack essential information, such as the genetic population structure, to develop appropriate translocation strategies for both wild and planted individuals. Here, we aimed to identify the conservation units and the origin of planted individuals by estimating the genetic population structure and phylogenetic relationships across all habitats of this species. We identified two distinct genetic clusters, indicating genetic differentiation between the northern and southern populations. The genetic population components detected at an isolated site on Chichijima showed a mixture of these distinct clusters, probably due to hybridization. The transplanted individuals in Chichijima were found to have originated from a population in Hahajima. These results suggest the presence of two distinct conservation units. Furthermore, the current translocation strategy poses a risk of genetic contamination between these units, highlighting the need for revised conservation management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strict biennials are among the least known lifecycles in plant ecology due to their rarity in nature, and their population genetics still remain unknown. The present study addressed the strict biennial lifecycle and associated population genetics of Pedicularis hallaisanensis , an endangered endemic plant in Korea. All P. hallaisanensis individuals were counted in August from 2021 to 2023 in the wild population of Gayasan National Park, and lifecycle and morphological changes were monitored monthly. A de novo draft genome and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis were used to study the population's genetic structure. P. hallaisanensis strictly requires a 2-year lifecycle per generation, including 8 and 10 months of growing periods as a first-year seedling and second-year adult, respectively. Facultative annual and perennial lifecycles were undetected, resulting in odd-year and even-year flowering cohorts. Permutational multivariate analysis of variance on the detected 3,716 SNPs demonstrated that the flowering group (p < 0.005), microhabitat (p < 0.001), and their interaction (p < 0.01) had a significant effect on genetic structure, which was differentiated between odd-year and even-year flowering cohorts. Other cluster analyses also showed that a microhabitat under historical anthropogenic interventions contained lowered genetic diversity due to a decreased genetic distance between odd-year and even-year flowering cohorts (p < 0.05). Overall, the findings suggest that excessive anthropogenic interventions should be avoided to preserve genetic diversity in the wild P. hallaisanensis population. Moreover, conservation programs for similar biennial plants should collect wild breeds from both odd-year and even-year flowering cohorts to improve the genetic diversity of artificially propagated individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a type of non-communicable disease that is responsible for numerous deaths worldwide. Cancer incidence and mortality rates are on the rise due to a combination of factors, such as a growing population, aging, and poor dietary habits. The Allium turcicum Özhatay & Cowley plant is an endemic plant in the area where it grows and is consumed by the public due to its various benefits. This endemic plant, which generally grows in high-altitude regions, is sold in bunches because it is costly, mixed with rock salt, crushed into powder, and consumed as a spice. The cytotoxic and growth-inhibitory effects of A. turcicum Özhatay & Cowley herb extract on human glioblastoma U373 cells, human colorectal carcinoma cell HCT-116, and healthy HUVEC cell lines were determined by the MTT method. After 24 and 48 h of application, logIC50 values in HUVEC, HCT-116, and U373 cells were defined as 3.737, 3.765; 3.513, 3.696, 4.476, and 4.104 μg/mL, respectively. We conducted a cell migration experiment to study the A. turcicum Özhatay & Cowley Extract (ATÖCE) impact on cancer cells' metastatic behavior. Our findings indicate that ATÖCE has an inhibitory effect on the migration potential of the cells used in the study. We conducted experiments using DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and total phenolic content to assess the antioxidant properties of ATÖCE. The findings from the antioxidant activity experiments revealed an activity level of 0.20 ± 0.046 at IC50. Additionally, the total phenolic content was measured to be 0.26 ± 0.044 mg GAE/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cliff ecosystems provide refuge to 35%–66% of the world's endemic plants. However, they face growing threats from sport climbing. Evidence suggests that unclimbed cliffs harbour approximately twice the plant richness compared with climbed cliffs, with increasing impact as climbing intensity increases. Unfortunately, it remains unknown whether the climbing impact on cliff vegetation originates from the development (opening) of climbing routes or from temporal changes resulting from subsequent climbing.We recorded cliff vascular plants and lichens at the protected natural area of El Potrero Chico (Mexico) before and after the development of new climbing routes. Subsequently, we re‐recorded the routes at sequential timepoints after 10, 20, and 30 ascents. Additionally, we examined whether the abundance of cliff vegetation influences the extent of climbing impact and whether the surroundings of the routes were also affected.We found that the opening of climbing routes exerted the strongest negative effects on cliff plants, reducing species richness by 38%, while subsequent ascents generated a minimal impact. Worryingly, route opening affected not only species richness in the route itself but also the surroundings of the routes. After 30 ascents, cliff plant abundance decreased by 60.6% within the bolted routes, whereas it decreased by 42.3% in the surroundings. However, this impact depended on the original cliff vegetation abundance. Lichen cover showed a gradual decrease, indicating that cliff‐dwelling lichens are affected not only by the opening of the route but also by subsequent ascents.Synthesis and applications: Given the almost non‐existent regulation of outdoor climbing activities in most countries, we urge the implementation of a conservation management protocol that defines clear strategies to regulate climbing activities and preserve pristine cliffs. On yet unclimbed cliffs with narrow endemic, rare, or threatened species, we propose banning the establishment of new climbing areas. On climbed cliffs lacking protected species, dynamic management actions should be implemented, such as setting a maximum number of routes that can be established and defining limits of acceptable change as climbing intensity increases. The proposed conservation management should help to halt the loss of unique cliff biodiversity and safeguard pristine cliff ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpinia monopleura is one of the endemic plants of Sulawesi, and it has an extensive distribution in the region. Research on chemical compounds and biological activities of A. monopleura is essential to continue as an effort to support the utilization of native plants for medicine. The extract was obtained using the maceration method. The chemical compounds in the extract were identified using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LCMS). Bovine Serum Albumin (BSA) and molecular docking methods were used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity. Ten compounds contained in the extract were successfully identified, E-para-coumaric acid (1), trans-ferulaldehyde (2), 3,5,6-trihydroxy-4',7-dimethoxyflavone (3), nevadensin (4), malvalic acid (5), ent-16α,17-hydroxy-19-kauranoic acid (6), 3',5-dihydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxy flavone (7), saurufuran B (8), 5-hydroxy-7,8,2'-trimethoxyflavanone (9) and dehydroabietic acid (10). The anti-inflammatory activity of extracts from rhizomes and stems of A. monopleura were 8.62 and 10.59 mg/L, respectively. Some flavonoids (9 and 7) can bind strongly to specific residues around the COX-2 active site, such as Ser530, thereby interfering with the function of the COX-2 enzyme and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Thus, A. monopleura extract has the potential to inhibit inflammatory responses through molecular regulation of the COX-2 enzyme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cliffs are home to rare and endemic species but are under threat from increasing disturbance. • Monitoring can provide land managers with the site-specific information needed to support cliff conservation. • Monitoring methodologies should be standardized, easy to implement, and dependent on objective criteria. • We urge the development and proliferation of cliff monitoring projects, especially those which include community participation. • To facilitate success, specialists should lead a platform to integrate, process, and analyze information collected through monitoring. Cliffs harbor unique and specialized biodiversity that warrants attention and conservation. At the same time, cliffs are under increased threat from anthropogenic disturbance and climate change. Since cliffs are highly heterogeneous, spatially isolated, and often inaccessible compared to nearby habitats, land managers require up-to-date and site-specific information to protect them. Cliffs are often overlooked due to the technical and logistical challenges posed by surveying these environments, but field inventorying and monitoring can fill this gap. We present three case studies of cliff monitoring in action: mapping populations of an endemic rare plant in the Southern Appalachian Mountains (US), photo-sampling of cliff specialist plants in Spain, and surveying peregrine falcons in Western North Carolina (US). These case studies highlight the application of various monitoring techniques, the possibilities for collaboration among stakeholders, and some ways that data from monitoring can inform cliff conservation and stewardship. To facilitate the development of easy-to-implement monitoring, we outline three approaches and associated best practices for monitoring cliff plants. Methods range from simple photo point monitoring to more in-depth species inventories and could be implemented by community scientists alongside a broader audience interested in providing up-to-date data on cliff environments. We call for action, urging the expansion and advancement of cliff biodiversity monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phytochemical investigation of both chloroform and ethyl acetate extracts of Genista lobelii DC from an Algerian endemic plant led to the isolation of a new isoflavonoid Aspalathoidin compound (1) and nine known compounds (laburnetin, isokaempferide, retamasin B, ephedrodin, sakuretin, isoprunetin, genistein −7-O-β-glucoside, derrone-4′-O-methyl ether and eriodictyol-7,3′-dimethylether). Twelve phenolic compounds were identified in ethyl acetate and n-butanol extracts through a qualitative investigation of phenolic compounds using HPLC. Finally, both extracts were estimated for their phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as the evaluation of their antioxidant activity using five different assays DPPH, CUPRAC, ABTS, GOR and the sun protection factor SPF was determined as an index of the photoprotective capacity of the G.lobelii DC extracts. The extract of chloroform and ethyl acetate has good antioxidant and includes significant levels of phenolic and flavonoid components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present report, a combination of classical and advanced methods, namely classical hydrodistillation (HD) and solvent free microwave extraction (SFME) have been used for the extraction of essential oils from flowers, leaves and stems of Perovskia abrotanoides Karel. as an endemic plant to Golestan Province, Iran. The volatile fractions from the same plant organs have been separated using a solid phase microextraction (SPME) fibre and characterised using a GC/MS apparatus. Moreover, oxygenated monoterpenes, for example, 1,8-cineole and borneol were found as the most constituent components of the majority of the characterised profiles. Accordingly, for flowers, leaves and stems of P. abrotanoides Karel., the relevant quantities were HD: 12.0 and 12.4, 24.0 and 17.9, 12.9 and 16.8%; SFME: 15.6 and 15.2, 20.5 and 16.2, 13.5 and 14.7%; SPME: 20.9 and 5.2, 25.5 and 9.9, 26.4 and 8.5%, respectively. Total phenolic content (TPC: 52.02 mg GAE/g), total flavonoids content (TFC: 98.46 mg QE/g) as well as antioxidant and antibacterial effects of the extract from the aerial parts of this species have been also evaluated. The cytotoxicity of Perovskia abrotanoides Karel. MeOH extract has been tested against HUVECs cell line. Moreover, our study on the in vitro anti-bladder carcinoma demonstrated that the plant extract reduced the viability of malignant bladder cell line, in a dose dependent way. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malesherbia auristipulata is an endemic plant species of the Atacama Desert, with unique morphological and physiological adaptations. This research was conducted at Cuesta El Águila, Arica and Parinacota Region, Chile. Adult and juvenile plants were monitored, recording their growth, flowering, and fruiting phases. Additionally, plant community species were identified. For the study of endophytic mycoflora, samples of seeds, roots, stems, and leaves were collected, disinfected, and cultivated in specific media. The isolated fungi were analyzed morphologically and molecularly, determining their distribution in different plant organs. The diversity of endophytic fungi associated with M. auristipulata and the associated fungal community was determined. The presence of endophytic fungi varied depending on the organ studied, suggesting dynamic interactions in the structure of its fungal community. Among the identified endophytic fungi, Alternaria sorghi, A. alstroemeriae, and Fusarium nurragi stand out for their presence in the root and stem of the plant. Of particular interest is the presence of F. circinatum in the leaves. This study provides valuable information for the conservation of M. auristipulata and other organisms in the Atacama Desert, highlighting the importance of ecological interactions in the resilience of plants to extreme environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carnation Dianthus fruticosus L. ssp. fruticosus (Caryophyllaceae) is a range-restricted perennial, endemic plant that grows on cliffs, rocks, ravines, terraces, and boulders on Serifos Island in the Cyclades in the Aegean archipelago (Greece), possessing an impressive, aesthetic blossoming during the dry season. This indigenous carnation of Serifos has attracted the interest of naturalists and scientists. Specimens of this subspecific taxon from the island of Serifos (Greece) were collected during botanical explorations in preindustrial times by the French naturalist Joseph Pitton de Tournefort (1702) and in the late eighteenth century by the English Professor of Botany at the University of Oxford John Sibthorp (1787). Those specimens, documented in relevant publications and labelled with different names (i.e., Caryophyllus Graecus arboreus and Caryophyllus arboreus Seriphius in the early eighteenth century and Dianthus fruticosus in the early nineteenth century), are related to aspects of vegetation history, linking the past to the present and (most probably) to the future. Today, a thorough understanding of the in situ development and functionality of this endemic carnation is still required, as is a framework of its sustainability and management in small-scale insular habitats. The timeless perception of the emblematic wild carnation Dianthus fruticosus ssp. fruticosus, which is still growing on inland and coastal sites of Serifos and neighboring islands in the Cyclades (Greece), is also a reminder that a native plant is often a repository to which local communities may look when crafting their identity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO) has been extensively used in areas such as optoelectronics, solar cells, and photocatalysis, among others. Modifying the optical properties of ZnO through different processes can potentially improve the performance of devices based on this material. This work presents the biosynthesis of ZnO by Beaucarnea gracilis leaf extract. The natural extract was mixed with zinc nitrate hexahydrate, Zn(NO3)2·6H2O resulting in a precipitate. Then the precipitate was calcined for 2 h at 400 °C, resulting in a yellowish-ZnO powder. Diffraction laser measurements showed a particle size average of 419 nm. The material exhibited high absorption in the UVA region with photoluminescence at 530 nm. Moreover, from the Tauc plot, a 2.7 eV band gap was obtained. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy results confirmed the ZnO synthesis through 550 cm−1 and 667 cm−1 absorption peaks. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that ZnO has been synthesized by the endemic plant Beaucarnea gracilis. A major difference with conventional ZnO is significant reduction in the band gap from 3.3 eV to 2.7 eV. Moreover, the material exhibited photoluminescence at 530 nm by exposure to UV light which is attributed to oxygen vacancies. The increase in the optical absorbance in the UV–Visible region and the reduction in the optical band gap could enhance the performance in solar cells based on ZnO and in photocatalysis processes, allowing the use of visible light sources in addition to UV light. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the advent of advanced sequencing technologies, new insights into the genomes of pathogens, including those in the genus Curtobacterium, have emerged. This research investigates a newly isolated C. flaccumfaciens strain 208 (Cf208) from Arthrocereus glaziovii, and endemic plant from Iron Quadrangle. Previous results show that Cf208 exhibits the potential to remediate soils, facilitating the growth of tomato plants. Furthermore, Cf208 showed no virulence towards bean plants, thus, confounding its phytopathogenic origins. Using a comprehensive comparative genomics approach, we analyzed the Cf208 genome against 34 other Curtobacterium strains, aiming to discern the genomic landmarks associated with its adaptation as an endophyte and its avirulence in bean crops. This revealed a predominant core genome comprising about 2426 genes (68%). Notably, Cf208 possesses a unique plasmid, pCF208-73, which contains 84 unique genes (2.5%). However, unlike the plasmids previously described for pathogenic strains, pCF208-73 does not feature genes associated with virulence induction. In contrast, while several genes traditionally linked to virulence, like pectate lyases and proteases were identified, but the T4P apparatus emerged as new crucial factor for understanding virulence in the Curtobacterium genus. The presence or absence of this apparatus, especially in strains from different clades, may determine their virulence towards leguminous plants. In conclusion, this work highlights the significance of comparative genomics in unraveling the complexities of pathogenicity within the Curtobacterium genus. Our findings suggest that, although the limited genetic variations, specific genes, particularly those linked to the T4P apparatus, play a fundamental role in their interactions with host plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Invasive species are major drivers of global ecosystem change. They often displace native species through competitive exclusion, creating novel species interactions. These interactions can lead to ecological cascades, where the presence of one invasive species enhances the fitness of another. Despite this, the mechanisms that underpin these mutualistic interactions and promote secondary invasions remain poorly understood. We assessed how the introduction of the invasive Argentine ant (Linepithema humile) alters mutualistic interactions within the recipient community, enhancing the dispersal and fitness of species of a secondary invasive plant genus (Acacia spp.). Our study examines these interactions at the community, individual species, and trait levels for a range of native and non‐native ant and plant species. Specifically, we aimed to investigate the direct and indirect effects of L. humile on seed dispersal mutualisms. We found that in L. humile invaded locations, seeds of the invasive Acacia plant species were approximately three times more likely to be dispersed than seeds of native endemic plant species. This preference is driven by indirect changes in the community structure of native seed‐dispersing ants, rather than direct interactions between the invasive ant and plant species. Moreover, we found that native ant species that co‐exist with L. humile, such as Tetramorium sericeiventre, respond to a narrower range of seed traits—traits which the invasive Acacia seeds possess. Our findings suggest that the invasion of L. humile has cascading effects on ant‐plant mutualisms, potentially increasing community permeability to secondary invasions. These results highlight that the impact of invaders like the Argentine ant may be greater than initially perceived, driving losses in both biological and functional plant diversity. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)'s Red List of Threatened Species is regarded as the primary source of global extinction risk for species. Despite this importance, the IUCN has assessed less than 20% of the world′s estimated 400,000 flowering plants due to issues like insufficient data or a lack of experts. Thousands of conservation status assessments were generated recently in response to the call to action by the revised Target 2 of the Global Strategy for Plant Conservation (GSPC), "An assessment of the conservation status of all known plant species, as far as possible, to guide conservation action." Accelerated extinction risk assessments are needed to identify species that are most at risk of extinction, which can then be thoroughly evaluated by the Red List assessment procedure. The land area in the Pacific Islands is significantly smaller than in other parts of the world. Plant species restricted to these islands may be identified as "At Risk" due to the limited land area of these islands, despite being widespread locally. Distribution and abundance data of single-island endemic plant taxa of Kosrae, Federated States of Micronesia, are analyzed and combined with digital elevation model files from this island, ArcGIS, and herbarium data, to calculate the percentage of land area that is available within a species′ elevational occurrence, a metric we have coined the Extent of Inhabitable Elevation of Island Occurrence (EIEIO). This metric can be used as a streamlined system to rapidly identify species that need plant conservation attention and allows for a swifter response to Target 2 of the GSPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endemic taxa are critical constituents in the flora of most parts of the world. Recently, most of these taxa have become exposed to extinction. This study aims to increase understanding of four monocot Mediterranean threatened endemic taxa in Egypt (Allium mareoticum Bornm. & Gauba, Bromus aegyptiacus Tausch, Muscari salah-eidii (Täckh. & Boulos) Hosni, Pancratium arabicum Sickenb.) by description of their pollen and seed and authentication of DNA barcoding using rbcL and matK genes. Twenty field visits were conducted from March 2017 till April 2023 including different localities through Mediterranean area for covering the presence of these species. Characterization of pollen grains and seeds were examined using a light (LM) and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). DNA barcoding was carried out for documentation of the four species. Maturase K (matK) and ribulose-bisphosphate carboxylase (rbcL) were used as primers for PCR amplification and gene sequencing. The two genes were successful in identifying Allium mareoticum, Bromus aegyptiacus, and Muscari salah-eidii at the genus level and Pancratium arabicum at both species and genus levels for rbcL marker, and the genus level for matK marker. This study is considered a leading study for new barcodes of (A) mareoticum, (B) aegyptiacus, and M. salah-eidii which were initially made available to the NCBI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While genetic diversity is theorised to increase the restoration success of degraded plant populations, previous studies examining its impacts on restoration outcomes have yielded mixed results.We hypothesise that the importance of genetic diversity for the performance of plants targeted for restoration increases with environmental stress and varies with specific plant traits related to different plant successive life stages. To test this, we conducted a fully factorial common garden experiment, crossing salinity and genetic diversity under low‐ and high‐nitrogen conditions on the growth and reproduction of Scirpus mariqueter, a threatened endemic saltmarsh plant in the Yangtze Estuary.The impacts of genetic diversity varied across stress gradients and metrics. Under high stress (high salinity, low nutrients), greater diversity enhanced reproductive traits such as clonal growth and seed production, but not under low stress. Plant growth traits showed no diversity effects regardless of stress.Synthesis: Our results highlight the importance of considering intraspecific genetic diversity in ecological restoration and help explain the context‐dependent effects of diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anisomeles malabarica, the commonly called "Malabar catmint" is a wild tropical plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae. Traditionally this plant is used as mosquito repellent, snakebite antidote and to treat fever and gastrointestinal discomfort by the people of South India. It is an important endemic plant used in the indigenous medicine systems of India such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani in various formulations. The rich phytochemistry of A. malabarica includes cembrane terpenes, flavonoids, alkaloids, steroids, flavones, glycosides, and other bioactive compounds contributing for its medicinal potential. Extracts and metabolites of A. malabarica shows wide range of significant pharmacological effects in combating cancer cells through apoptosis, inhibiting viral agents (HPV and SARS-CoV-2), immune regulation, and DNA protection. The phytocompounds of A. malabarica were also reported for anti-malarial, anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, anti-epileptic, anti-diabetic, anti-parasitic activity, and hepatoprotective properties. This systematic review summarizes the therapeutic properties with botanical characteristics, ethnobotany, and phytochemistry of A. malabarica. It also documents the ingrained traditional use of A. malabarica in religious custom in southern states of India. Therefore further exploration of this promising medicinal herb for its metabolites and ethnobotanical records would possibly support the development of modern medicine systems and provides insights for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Sepsis can have severe implications on lung function, leading to acute lung injury (ALI), a major contributor to sepsis-related mortality. Anisodamine hydrobromide (Ani HBr), a bioactive constituent derived from the root of Scopolia tangutica Maxim, a plant endemic to China, has demonstrated efficacy in treating septic shock. We aim to explore whether Ani HBr can alleviate sepsis-triggered ALI and elucidate the fundamental mechanisms involved. Materials and method: The protective effects of Ani HBr were assessed in two models: in vitro, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and in vivo, cecal ligation puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis. To measure the cell viability of RAW264.7 cells after Ani HBr treatment, we used the CCK-8 assay. We quantified the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines expression using ELISA. We also measured the expression of pyrotosis indicators by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Results: Our study demonstrates that Ani HBr can alleviate pulmonary edema, bleeding, and excessive inflammation induced by CLP. Additionally, it exhibits protective effects against cytotoxicity induced by LPS in RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Furthermore, Ani HBr downregulates the mRNA and protein levels of NLRP3, Caspase-1, GSDMD, IL-18, and IL-1β in both animal models and cell cultures, thereby inhibiting pyroptosis in a similar mechanism to AC-YVAD-CMK (AYC)'s blockade of Caspase-1. Moreover, Ani HBr suppresses the production and release of proinflammatory cytokines. Conclusion: These findings suggest that Ani HBr could serve as a protective agent against sepsis-induced ALI by suppressing pyroptosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Duku (Lansium domesticum) is an endemic plant in Indonesia with various benefits and distinctive tastes that many people favor. Duku originating from Kudus is known as Duku Sumber, one of the five superior duku varieties. The problem encountered today is the decreasing number of Duku Sumber plants due to land use change, and there has been no effort to increase the plant population. Information on land suitability as a basis for developing crops does not yet exist, so data about land suitability will be used as information on the wider distribution of planting areas in Kudus. This study aimed to evaluate the suitability and land use of Duku Sumber plants in the Kudus Regency. Geographic information systems and matching methods were applied to map the distribution of land suitability for Duku Sumber. The results showed that the potential and actual land suitability class for Duku Sumber are very suitable (S1) and quite suitable (S2) for the Jekulo, Hadipolo, Tenggeles, Golantepus, and Megawon areas, while the slightly suitable (S3) are Klaling, Ngembalrejo, Mejobo and Jati Wetan. The availability of nutrients (na) for nitrogen and potassium is the dominant limiting factor in this area. Nitrogen content in Jati Wetan (0.12%), Klaling (0.19%), and Hadiwarno (0.19%), while potassium content in Ngembalrejo (16.47 ppm) and Mejobo (18.57 ppm). Limitations in this area can be overcome by adding nitrogen and potassium fertilizers to become suitable land. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The World Health Organization has emphasized the importance of consuming small fruits for the prevention of chronic health problems, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and obesity, which are named chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Azara serrata Ruiz & Pav., commonly called "aroma de Castilla", is a shrub endemic to Chile from the Salicaceae family that produces an underutilized blue-grey berry that grows wild in southern Chile. The species is widely used as a medicinal plant by the Andean communities of southern Chile. In this work, a high-resolution mass spectrometric analysis of the methanolic extract revealed several phenolic compounds for the first time in the edible berry of this endemic species. Furthermore, several glycosylated anthocyanins were detected and quantified using UHPLC coupled with UV/Vis detection and trapped ion mobility mass spectrometry (UHPLC-DAD-TIMS-TOF) for the anthocyanin-rich extract, which was prepared using an optimized anthocyanin extraction protocol. The extract proved to be active in the inhibition of several enzymes linked to NCDs, such as acetylcholinesterase, tyrosinase, amylase, lipase, and glucosidase (IC50 = 3.92 ± 0.23, 12.24 ± 0.03, 11.12 ± 0.10, 32.43 ± 0.0, and 371.6 ± 0.0 μg/mL, respectively). Furthermore, the extract concentrated in anthocyanins showed good antioxidant activity evidenced by the bleaching of the radicals DPPH and ABTS, ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The results show that these neglected endemic small berries can be a source of healthy phytochemicals. These Chilean berries can be used as functional food and their extracts are candidates for use as functional ingredients in naturally healthy products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the change in the vegetation composition because of climate change and its effect on natural heritage. Wadi Al Arbaein is one of the most important wadis in the flora and vegetation composition. Wadi Al Arbaein is another narrow steep wadi, on its bed are scattered boulders and large stones. There are successive broad terraces reducing to a deep narrow channel flooded by spring water. The climate of the study area is extremely arid, with a long hot and rainless summer and mild winter. During the study, vegetation survey for the Al Arbaein in south Sinai was done including vegetation parameters such as total plant cover, physical and chemical soil analysis, temperature and moisture were the main factors controlling the floristic and structural distribution of vegetation in the study area. The variation in vegetation is highly influenced by diversity and is susceptible to climatic change. Endemic species are consistently more adversely impacted, endemics are considered as indicators for assessment and conservation of bio geographical regions and biodiversity hotspots. Climate change may cause rare and threatened endemic species to experience changes in their distribution range, perhaps leading to their extinction. The study conducted in Wadi Al Arbaein recorded 125 plant species, detailing their life forms and conservation statuses according to the IUCN 2024 criteria. Asteraceae emerged as the most abundant plant family, followed by Lamiaceae, with therophytes predominating among the recorded species. Wadi Al Arbaein harbors 16 endemic plant species, including seven critically endangered, six endangered, one near threatened, and one vulnerable. Preserving these botanical treasures is crucial for biodiversity conservation. The study identified ten distinct plant communities, in addition to five pure plant communities, likely characterized by distinct species compositions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of natural alternatives to conventional fungicides is of imminent need. Mosiera bullata (Britton & P. Wilson) Bisse is a Cuban endemic plant species belonging to the Myrtaceae family. The objective of the present study was to perform a bioassay-guided fractionation to explore the potential of extracts and fractions from M. bullata leaves against a panel of fungal plant pathogens. The M. bullata total extract was confirmed to have good antifungal activity against R. oryzae (IC50 = 4.86 µg/mL) and moderate activity against F. oxysporum (IC50 = 352.40 µg/mL) and F. solani (IC50 = 427.38 µg/mL) and fungicidal effect against R. oryzae. Five compounds belonging to the class of phloroglucinol dimers were tentatively characterized by UHPLC-HRMS and reported for the first time in M. bullata and the genus Mosiera. These results suggest the potential of M. bullata total extract as a natural antifungal product for the control of diseases in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cynometra cebuensis F. Seid. is an endemic and threatened tree from the Philippines. The species was previously described to exclusively thrive in the Tabunan Forest of the Central Cebu Protected Landscape. Due to its narrow geographic distribution and threats from land conversion, slash-and-burn activities and non-regulated wood harvesting by locals, C. cebuensis was assessed as Critically Endangered (CR) under criteria B1a and B1b (as well as B2a and B2b) of the IUCN Red List in 2013. The present study provides new additional locations of C. cebuensis in the Municipalities of Argao and Minglanilla in Cebu along with population data and habitat characteristics for each site. Although new populations of C. cebuensis were discovered, it remains at significant risk of extinction in its natural habitat. Urgent and comprehensive conservation efforts are imperative to prevent its extinction. New information: This paper provides the updated distribution map of Cynometra cebuensis F. Seid, a critically endangered endemic species in the Philippines showing five (5) distribution records. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zuccagnia punctata Cav. (Family Fabaceae. Subfamily Caesalpinioideae) is a native plant species with a long history of use in Argentine traditional medicine. The purpose of the present study was to extract bioactive compounds with antioxidant and antifungal activity from Z. punctata aerial parts using conventional solvents (water, ethanol 60°, vegetal oil) and unconventional solvents (natural deep eutectic solvents or NaDESs) such as green solvents with and without the assistance of ultrasound (UAE) and microwaves (MAE). NaDESs such as glucose: lactic acid (LGH), sucrose: citric acid (CAS), choline chloride: urea (CU) and glucose: fructose: sucrose (FGS) were used. LGH and CU were effective in the extraction of phenolic compounds (6710 ± 10.12 µg GAE/mL and 7140 ± 15.00 µg GAE/mL, respectively) as well as ethanol (6270 µg ± 12.00 µg GAE/mL) using conventional methods. Two chemical markers of Z. punctata (2′,4′-dihydroxychalcone and 2′,4′-dihydroxy -3-methoxychalcone) were extracted in a high proportion in ethanol, oil, LGH and CU with UAE. The ABTS antioxidant capacity was higher in the extracts obtained with LGH and CU (SC50: 0.90 ± 0.10 µg GAE/mL and 1.08 ± 0.16 µg GAE/mL, respectively). The extract obtained with vegetal oil was the most potent as antifungal, followed by the extracts in ethanol, LGH and CU. These findings highlight the importance of using environmentally friendly solvents such as NaDESs to obtain bioactive metabolites from Z. punctata, an endemic plant of Argentina with a potential application in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global warming has caused many species to become endangered or even extinct. Describing and predicting how species will respond to global warming is one of the hotspots of biodiversity research. Species distribution models predict the potential distribution of species based on species occurrence data. However, the impact of the accuracy of the distribution data on the prediction results is poorly studied. In this study, we used the endemic plant Litsea auriculata (Lauraceae) as a case study. By collecting and assembling six different datasets of this species, we used MaxEnt to perform species distribution modeling and then conducted comparative analyses. The results show that, based on our updated complete correct dataset (dataset 1), the suitable distribution of this species is mainly located in the Ta-pieh Mountain, southwestern Hubei and northern Zhejiang, and that mean diurnal temperature range (MDTR) and temperature annual range (TAR) play important roles in shaping the distribution of Litsea auriculata. Compared with the correct data, the wrong data leads to a larger and expanded range in the predicted distribution area, whereas the species modeling based on the correct but incomplete data predicts a small and contracted range. We found that only about 23.38% of Litsea auriculata is located within nature reserves, so there is a huge conservation gap. Our study emphasized the importance of correct and complete distribution data for accurate prediction of species distribution regions; both incomplete and incorrect data can give misleading prediction results. In addition, our study also revealed the distribution characteristics and conservation gap of Litsea auriculata, laying the foundation for the development of reasonable conservation strategies for this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endemic plants are key to understanding the evolutionary history and enhancing biodiversity within their unique regions, while also offering significant economic potential. The East Asian endemic genus Corchoropsis Siebold & Zucc., classified within the subfamily Dombeyoideae of Malvaceae s.l., comprises three species. Results: This study characterizes the complete plastid genomes (plastomes) of C. crenata var. crenata Siebold & Zucc. and C. crenata var. hupehensis Pamp., which range from 160,093 to 160,724 bp. These genomes contain 78 plastid protein-coding genes, 30 tRNA, and four rRNA, except for one pseudogene, infA. A total of 316 molecular diagnostic characters (MDCs) specific to Corchoropsis were identified. In addition, 91 to 92 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in C. crenata var. crenata and 75 in C. crenata var. hupehensis were found. Moreover, 49 long repeats were identified in both the Chinese C. crenata var. crenata and C. crenata var. hupehensis, while 52 were found in the South Korean C. crenata var. crenata. Our phylogenetic analyses, based on 78 plastid protein-coding genes, reveal nine subfamilies within the Malvaceae s.l. with high support values and confirm Corchoropsis as a member of Dombeyoideae. Molecular dating suggests that Corchoropsis originated in the Oligocene, and diverged during the Miocene, influenced by the climate shift at the Eocene–Oligocene boundary. Conclusions: The research explores the evolutionary relationships between nine subfamilies within the Malvaceae s.l. family, specifically identifying the position of the Corchoropsis in the Dombeyoideae. Utilizing plastome sequences and fossil data, the study establishes that Corchoropsis first appeared during the Eocene and experienced further evolutionary divergence during the Miocene, paralleling the evolutionary patterns observed in other East Asian endemic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kawakawa (Piper excelsum) is an endemic medicinal plant widely consumed by Māori in New Zealand. Presence of diverse biologically active phytochemicals in kawakawa may underpin its putative therapeutic anti‐inflammatory properties. However, no human studies on its anti‐inflammatory effects are yet undertaken. Blood samples from a randomized controlled dietary intervention exploring the impact of kawakawa compared to control on postprandial microRNAs (miRNA) abundances and their respective gene and protein targets in a cohort of healthy human volunteers (n = 26; Age; 33.6 ± 1.9 year and BMI; 22.5 ± 0.4 kg/m2) were analyzed. Postprandial levels of nine miRNAs showed differential abundances; hsa‐miR‐17‐5p, ‐21‐5p, ‐320a‐5p, let‐7g‐5p, ‐16‐5p, ‐122‐5p, and ‐144‐3p was upregulated while as hsa‐miR‐221‐3p and ‐223‐3p was downregulated in response to kawakawa compared to control. In silico analysis indicated enrichment of miRNAs in multiple inflammation‐related pathways, including apoptosis, cytokine signaling, MAPK signaling, and MTOR pathways. Furthermore, gene expression of IL‐8 (p = .03), IL‐6 (p = .01), and PPAR‐γ were significantly reduced following kawakawa intake compared to control. While as plasma IL‐6 showed a significant increase over 120 min in the kawakawa arm. These results highlight kawakawa to exert anti‐inflammatory effects by modulating the expression of miRNAs and their target genes and proteins in the inflammatory signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Ryukyu Archipelago of Japan is a biodiversity hotspot with a remarkable diversity of endemic plants and animals. Although recent biodiversity surveys have highlighted that gall midges (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) are the most species-rich taxon of insects worldwide, only 43 species are known presently in the Ryukyus. In this study, an undescribed gall midge developing in the flower buds of Pongamia pinnata (Fabaceae) was found on Ishigaki Island, southern Ryukyus, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. Morphologically, the gall midge belongs to the supertribe Cecidomyiidi (Cecidomyiidae: Cecidomyiinae), but it does not fit the definition of any of the tribes and genera classified of Cecidomyiidi. A molecular phylogenetic analysis including the main tribes of Cecidomyiidi was conducted and reinforced the results of morphological examination. Therefore, Ishigakidiplosis karamae Elsayed, gen. nov. et sp. nov. was introduced for what is no doubt a previously unnamed species. This new genus sheds light on the unique gall midges of the Ryukyus and highlights the importance of conducting further surveys to elucidate their diversity and evolutionary relationships to other known gall midges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We did a preliminary investigation of the allelopathic activity of 60 invasive and medicinal plants in Sri Lanka on Lactuca sativa (lettuce) and Raphanus sativus (radish). Out of 60 plants, 14 significantly reduced lettuce seedling lengths than distilled water, and 55 plants reduced radish seedling growth. In consideration of all the parameters tested, Cardiospermum halicacabum and Canarium zeylanicum Blume showed the highest phytotoxicity. C. zeylanicum (family Burseraceae), an endemic plant in Sri Lanka was selected for the isolation of phytotoxic compounds. The whole tree has a distinct fragrance bears edible seeds and has potential health benefits. This plant is used for medicinal purposes and its bark contains 3-hydroxy-12-methoxy-8,11,13-podocarpatrien-3-one and acetyl aleuritolic acid. This is the first report of the aforementioned two compounds from C. zeylanicum. These compounds exhibited phytotoxicity against lettuce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lai (Durio kutejensis Hassk. Becc) an endemic plant of Kalimantan-Indonesia leaves contain secondary metabolites as allelochemicals (alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, phenols, and steroids). We investigated the allelopathic effects of lai leaf extract on the seed germination and early growth of weeds (Ruellia tuberosa L. and Amaranthus spinosus L.) and crops (Oryza sativa L. and Zea mays L.). We conducted two experiments: Germination bioassay and Early growth greenhouse bioassay consisting of 0 (Control), 25, 50 and 75 % leaf extracts. The leaf extracts significantly decreased the germination and early growth of both test weeds and crops: Germination (%) (100 to 26.66 %), shoot length (9.40 to 3.16 cm); germination index (3.30 to 0.36); vigour index (9.40 to 0.84); biomass 1.43 to 0.14 g); and chlorophyll a (0.45 to 0.016 mg/L), b (0.077 to 0.024 mg/L), and total chlorophyll (0.122 to 0.038 mg/L) contents. In contrast, the extract increased the germination time (3.00 to 7.00 h), mortality (0 to 40 %), and phytotoxicity (0 to 2.33 %) of test plants. Higher concentrations of plant extracts were more inhibitory to germination and early growth in all test crops. Therefore, D. kutejensis leaf extract contains a natural compound that can be potentially suitable as an allelopathic-natural herbicide. In future, the results can be used to reduce the use of chemical herbicides in crop production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gunung (Mount) Talang is an active volcano in West Sumatra that has a number of Nepenthes species, including the endemic N. talangensis, but their ecology has been little been studied. This study found five species of Nepenthes growing in the protected forest area of Gunung Talang, namely N. bongso, N. inermis, N. pectinata, N. spathulata and N. talangensis. The population of N. talangensis is very small (23 individuals) and it grows sympatrically with N. bongso and N. inermis forming natural hybrids. Lithocarpus conocarpus, Camellia lanceolata, Syzygium acuminatissimum, Adinandra dumosa and Dehaasia sp. are the five most dominant tree species found in the Nepenthes habitat, while L. conocarpus and Podocarpus neriifolius had strong positive associations with N. talangensis. Growth rates of the five Nepenthes species were not significantly different, neither were foliar nitrogen (mean = 1.14%) or phosphorus concentrations (mean = 0.11%). We suggest that N. talangensis should be considered as Critically Endangered and outline some possible conservation actions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research group isolated an endophyte yeast from the endemic plant Echinopsis chiloensis. This yeast, identified as Naganishia sp, produces volatile organic compounds (VOC) with antifungal activity against Botrytis cinerea. Due to the need for alternative control methods for this pathogen, the effect of VOC on B. cinerea was analyzed. On the fourth day of cultivation, in the presence of VOCs, the mycelial growth of B. cinerea stopped. VOCs inhibited 32.8% of the conidia germination and reduced sporulation by 70.6%. These compounds promoted the formation of infection cushions. VOCs caused damage to the cell wall and plasma membrane in B. cinerea. On the other hand, the volatile compounds induced oxidative stress, and led to membrane lipid peroxidation after 16 and 24 h of incubation in the presence of VOCs, because an increased level of malondialdehyde content was observed. These compounds exerted a fungistatic effect on B. cinerea. The volatile compounds emitted by Naganishia sp were identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry as 3-methylbutyl acetate, ethylbenzene, 1-ethyl-3-methylbenzene, 2-phenylethanol, 2-heptanone and (5E)-6,10-dimethylundeca-5,9-dien-2-one. The most abundant volatile compound, 2-phenylethanol, inhibited the mycelial growth of B. cinerea with an IC50 value of 0.21 µL mL−1. The effect of this pure compound was also fungistatic. Finally, it was shown that volatile compounds decreased the severity of B. cinerea infection in tomatoes and grapes by 64.7 and 43,1%, respectively. This is the first report identifying volatile compounds emitted by a Naganishia sp. and describing their mode of action against B. cinerea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Systematic studies on the biodiversity of bryophytes along elevational gradients have been conductuted within the native vegetation of the Azores, using the MOVECLIM framework. The primary objective of this study was to inventory the bryophytes present within preserved areas of native vegetation in Terceira Island (Azores). From 25 to 28 September 2012, an inventory of the bryoflora was carried out along an elevational gradient, starting near Serreta lighthouse (38.76658 Latitude; -27.37539 Longitude; 40 m a.s.l.) and culminating on the top of Santa Bárbara Mountain (38.73064 Latitude; -27.32164 Longitude; 1000 m a.s.l.). The study followed the adapted MOVECLIM standardised protocol, as follows: i) six sites were selected along an elevational transect, each site spaced at 200 m elevation intervals; ii) within each site, two 10 m x 10 m plots were established in close proximity from each other (10-15 m); iii) within these plots, three 2 m x 2 m quadrats were randomly selected and sampled for bryophytes. The following substrates were surveyed in each quadrat: rock, soil, humus, organic matter, tree bark at three different heights and leaves/fronds. For each available and bryophyte-colonised substrate, three replicate microplots of 10 cm x 5 cm were collected, resulting in a maximum of 24 microplots per quadrat. New information: Nearly three-quarters of the maximum expected number of microplots (636 out of 864; eventID) were found across the six sites on Terceira Island, resulting in a total of 3677 records (occurrenceID). A high proportion of the specimens could be identified to the species rank (n = 3661; 99.6%), representing 38 families, 60 genera and 92 species, including 58 species of liverworts (Marchantiophyta) and 34 species of mosses (Bryophyta). The inventory included several endemic species: two liverwort species endemic to the Azores, five species endemic to Macaronesia (three mosses and two liverworts) and 11 European endemic species (three mosses and eight liverworts). The elevations with the highest species richness, the highest number of endemic species and the highest number of conservation concern species, spanned between 600 and 1000 m a.s.l. above sea level, coinciding with the best preserved forest vegetation. Overall, tree-dwelling and ground-dwelling substrates showed similar levels of bryophyte occupation (75% vs. 72%). However, the 636 events were unevenly distributed across substrates: leaves and rocks had the fewest replicates (n = 54; 50.0%), while humus and the lowest tree height had the highest values (n = 106; 98.1% and n = 98; 90.7%, respectively). The study contributed to expanding knowledge about the diversity and distribution of the Azorean Bryoflora, both on a local and a regional scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The aerial part of Allium mongolicum Regel (AMR) which is abundant in the southeastern regions of Mongolia, is used as a food spice. When the crude extracts of this plant were prepared and used for the experiments different biological activities were observed because the extracts contained many polar to nonpolar compounds. This study aimed to prepare subfractions from the crude methanolic extract of AMR and to compare their antiproliferative effects on human cancer cells (HepG2, and MCF-7 cells). The methanolic extracts of AMR were fractionated into six subfractions (methanol, hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, butanol, and water residue) by solvent–solvent partitioning. The total phenolic content (TPC) was measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The antioxidant activity of the sub-fractions was determined via DPPH⋅ and ABTS⋅+ assays. Subfraction antiproliferative activity on human cancer cells, HepG2 and MCF-7 cells, was determined by MTS assay. Subfractions showed completely distinct antioxidant and antiproliferative activities (p

Hyperaccumulators are unusual plants that accumulate specific metals or metalloids in their living tissues to concentrations that may be hundreds or thousands of times greater than those normal for most plants. Hyperaccumulator plants are of practical importance as they can be used in soil remediation technologies. The Shebenik Mountain massif, located on the eastern border of Albania, hosts a wide diversity of rare and endemic plant species, including nickel hyperaccumulators. The aim of this study was to evaluate the taxa present on the Shebenik Mt. in relation to soil conditions and to test their potential for phytomining in a replicated field trial. Previous morphological and karyological analyses of material from field collections across ultramafic outcrops of the Shebenik resulted in the identification of the following nickel hyperaccumulator taxa: Odontarrhena chalcidica (Janka) Španiel & al., Odontarrhena smolikana subsp. glabra (Nyár.) Španiel & al., Odontarrhena rigida (Nyár.) L. Cecchi & Selvi, and Bornmuellera baldaccii (Degen) Heywood. In addition, a species of the genus Noccaea, formerly referred to Noccaea ochroleuca (Boiss. & Heldr.) F.K. Mey, but likely belonging to a still undescribed taxon, was also collected. An in situ replicated trial was undertaken to evaluate the potential for phytomining of three nickel (Ni) hyperaccumulators collected in the Shebenik Mt. Measurement of aboveground biomass, analysis of nickel in the biomass, and analyses of plant‐available nickel in the soil allowed calculation of bioaccumulation and phytoextraction yield. This provides a realistic evaluation of the efficacy of the plant taxa in hyperaccumulating nickel and their potential use for phytoextraction/phytomining technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hippophae tibetana, belonging to the Elaeagnaceae family, is an endemic plant species of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, valued for its remarkable ecological restoration capabilities, as well as medicinal and edible properties. Despite being acknowledged as a useful species, its mitochondrial genome data and those of other species of the Elaeagnaceae family are lacking to date. In this study, we, for the first time, successfully assembled the mitochondrial genome of H. tibetana, which is 464,208 bp long and comprises 31 tRNA genes, 3 rRNA genes, 37 protein-coding genes, and 3 pseudogenes. Analysis of the genome revealed a high copy number of the trnM-CAT gene and a high prevalence of repetitive sequences, both of which likely contribute to genome rearrangement and adaptive evolution. Through nucleotide diversity and codon usage bias analyses, we identified specific genes that are crucial for adaptation to highaltitude conditions. Notably, genes such as atp6, ccmB, nad4L, and nad7 exhibited signs of positive selection, indicating the presence of unique adaptive traits for survival in extreme environments. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the close relationship between the Elaeagnaceae family and other related families, whereas intergenomic sequence transfer analysis revealed a substantial presence of homologous fragments among the mitochondrial, chloroplast, and whole genomes, which may be linked to the high-altitude adaptation mechanisms of H. tibetana. The findings of this study not only enrich our knowledge of H. tibetana molecular biology but also advance our understanding of the adaptive evolution of plants on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. This study provides a solid scientific foundation for the molecular breeding, conservation, and utilization of H. tibetana genetic resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euonymus koopmannii is a rare and protected species in Kazakhstan, valued for its ecological role in soil stabilization and its ornamental properties. This study presents the first use of micropropagation and phylogenetic analysis for the endemic plant E. koopmannii. Seedlings of E. koopmannii proved to be more effective than internodes as primary explants for plant micropropagation of in vitro culture, with a multiplication coefficient of 28.5 from seedlings and 6.1 from internodes. On MSR I medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/L IBA and 0.05 mg/L IAA, a higher success rate of 67% was achieved for root formation of test tube-grown E. koopmannii plants. Using mannitol as an osmotic agent at a concentration of 8 mg/L prolonged the storage time of E. koopmannii under slow growth conditions when compared to CCC and abscisic acid. Phylogenetic relationships and species identification were analyzed using four DNA-barcoding markers, comparing E. koopmannii with species from NCBI. All candidate barcoding markers showed sufficient levels of interspecific genetic variation among Euonymus species. In addition, ITS region and rbcL gene sequences effectively distinguished E. koopmannii from other species. These results provide fundamental information that will be valuable for future biotechnological and molecular studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Posidonia Oceanica (PO) is an endemic marine plant in the Mediterranean Sea. In an experimental study conducted in the Eastern Mediterranean, the effects of natural PO leaves on reducing the height of incident waves impacting a beach were measured. The transmission coefficient (Kt) was found to vary between 0.73 and 0.94, which is equivalent to a wave height decay of 6–27%. The results show that in their natural environment, free-floating dead PO leaves dissipate incoming wave energy and have the capacity to protect beaches against erosion. Further analysis in separate frequency bands showed that waves with periods between 4.5–6.2 s were more sensitive to PO leaves in terms of energy dissipation. The transmission coefficient for medium-period waves, calculated using the medium-frequency part of the wave spectrum, delivered a maximum transmission coefficient of 0.5, corresponding to a 50% decay in wave height due to PO leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Knowledge about propagation of rare and endangered plant species is very important for their conservation and sustainable utilization. Therefore, it is imperative to understand different reproductive aspects of such species for their conservation and management. It is in this backdrop different propagation method of Aconitum chasmanthum- a Critically Endangered and Endemic Medicinal plant species has been undertaken. Methods: Seed germination was carried out using different media. For each treatment mean germination time (MGT) was also calculated. Different agro-techniques were also developed in different soil textural classes. The fresh underground tubers of the species were collected from natural population and were split longitudinally into 2, 3 and 4 pieces depending upon the size of the parental tuber containing a portion of shoot apex. The split cuttings were treated with 100 ppm IAA, IBA and GA3 for 48 hours and were sown in sandy loam soils under pots at Herbal Garden. The pots were kept in diffused light to monitor the leafy shoot generation, survival and comparison with the control (untreated cuttings). Result: The present study revealed that seeds of the species remain dormant for a pretty long period and do not germinate in darker conditions. Among various treatments the species showed 90.0±8.66% germination when chilled for 20 days with mean germination time (MGT) of 13.678±1.874 days as against 10.66±1.154% germination of the control. Although the plants grew nicely on various soils, maximum plant survival and vigorous growth was obtained in loamy textured soils. The plants responded to various nutrient treatments and in loamy soil the maximum dry biomass was shown by the plants treated with nitrogen (300 mg/kg soil) and NPK (500 mg/kg soil). The plants treated with NPK (500 mg/kg soil) produced 14.46±2.50 gm dry biomass as against the control of 5.23±0.750 gm per individual. The experimental manipulations also reveal that the species has a potential to propagate through tuber cuttings in sandy loam soils. The cuttings treated with IAA, IBA and GA3 showed 68.75% to 75.0% survival rate as against the 62.5% in control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the frame of exploring the local native biodiversity for new ornamental species, the current study frames pivotal efforts for the ex situ conservation of the vulnerable and protected local Greek endemic plant Campanula laciniata L. and presents its natural requirements, seed germination trial, and first cultivation–fertilization protocol. The temperature and precipitation requirements of C. laciniata prevailing in its natural habitats were explored by using high-spatial-resolution bioclimatic maps in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The germination of C. laciniata seeds was tested at 15 °C under alternating light and dark conditions as suggested for various Mediterranean Campanula species. However, the germination rate of C. laciniata seeds was low (35%), thus indicating the need for further research. The derived seedlings were used to study the effect of fertilization schemes on C. laciniata growth involving integrated nutrient management (INM), inorganic fertilization (ChF), and control (only water) using a substrate of soil:peat:perlite (4:3:1, v/v/v). After six months of plant growth, specific morphological and physiological characteristics as well as the phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of the plants receiving each fertilization treatment were measured. Fertilization significantly affected the morphological and physiological characteristics of the produced plants. Total phenols and antioxidant capacity were both affected by fertilization treatment but were lower in fertilized plants compared to control ones. After pivotal ex situ conservation, we performed a multifaceted evaluation for the ornamental-horticultural sector showing that C. laciniata holds a noteworthy ornamental potential (52.78%) with feasible value chain creation in the medium term for its sustainable utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new genus and species, Castrila latens, native to the south‐eastern Iberian Peninsula, is described here for the first time and compared with its closest relatives. The plant is characterized by being annual, glabrous, having reduplicate leaves in whorls of (5)6–7, inflorescences capitate and involucrate, corolla shortly hypocrateriform and white, with yellowish doliiform tube, stamens included, and ovary and mericarps densely papillose. An endemic plant, it grows on the calcareous mountains of the Sierra Seca, Sierra de Castril, and Sierra de la Cabrilla, between 1800 and 2100 m of elevation, in the Granada and Jaén provinces (eastern Andalusia, Spain). For this genus and species, a description, an illustration, a distribution map, the chromosome number, the assessment of the conservation status, an estimate of the breeding system, and the situation in the Rubieae phylogenetic tree are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article investigates the impact of urbanization on indigenous carnivorous plant species in Bhubaneswar Smart City in Odisha, India. The study observes the effect of infrastructure construction activities on the abiotic and biotic components of the native ecosystem and on indigenous species and terrestrial insect diversity that threatens carnivorous plant diversity. It also examines the role of carnivorous plants as ecological indicator.

The article determines the diversity and distribution of climbing plants, including rare and endemic species, at Khanpur taluka of Mahisagar district in Gujarat, India. The study identifies the dominant families of climber plant species that include Convolvulaceae, Cucurbitaceae, Fabaceae, Manispermac, Viraceae, Asclepiadaceae, Asparagaceae, Asteraceae, Combretaceae and Dioscoreaceae.

Global climate change poses a severe threat to mountain biodiversity. Phenotypic plasticity and local adaptation are two common strategies for alpine plant to cope with such change. They may facilitate organismal adaptation to contrasting environments, depending on the influences of the environment or genotype or their interacted effects. In this study, we use an endemic alpine plant (Rorippa elata) in the Hengduan mountains (HDM) to unravel its phenotypic basis of adaptation strategy and evaluate the relative contributions of environment and genotype to its phenotype. We transplanted 37 genotypes of R. elata into two common gardens across low and high elevations (2800 vs. 3800 m) during 2021–2022. Nine fitness-related traits were measured, including flowering probability and glucosinolates (GS) content. We estimated the environmental or genotypic contributions to the phenotype and identified the main environmental components. Our results revealed that both environment and genotype-by-environment interactions contributed to the phenotypes of R. elata. Latitudinal heterogeneity was identified as a key factor that explained 24% of the total phenotypic variation. In particular, genotypes of the northern HDM showed significantly higher plasticity in flowering probability than those of the southern HDM. Furthermore, within the southern HDM, GS content indicated local adaptation to herbivory stresses for R. elata genotypes along elevations. In conclusion, our results suggest that R. elata may have adapted to the alpine environment through species-level plasticity or regional-level local adaptation. These processes were shaped by either complex topography or interactions between genotype and mountain environments. Our study provides empirical evidence on the adaptation of alpine plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jeffreycia zeylanica (Asteraceae), a plant endemic to Sri Lanka, is used for the treatment of wounds. The scratch wound assay (SWA) guided fractionation of hexanes extract of J. zeylanica led to the isolation of oleana-9(11),12-diene-3β-ol (1) which showed enhanced cell migration in SWA and significant proangiogenic response in chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. Since the reported 1H NMR assignments of 1 were incomplete, and some 13C NMR assignments were inconsistent with our observations, reassignment of NMR spectroscopic data of 1 was carried out. Herein we report unambiguous assignment of NMR data of 1 based on 1D and 2D NMR spectra. This is the first report of 1 in J. zeylanica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The infusion of Santolina impressa, an endemic Portuguese plant, is traditionally used to treat various infections and disorders. This study aimed to assess its chemical profile by HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn and validate its anti-inflammatory potential. In addition, the antioxidant capacity and effects on wound healing, lipogenesis, melanogenesis, and cellular senescence, all processes in which a dysregulated inflammatory response plays a pivotal role, were unveiled. The anti-inflammatory potential was assessed in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages, cell migration was determined using a scratch wound assay, lipogenesis was assessed on T0901317-stimulated keratinocytes and melanogenesis on 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX)-activated melanocytes. Etoposide was used to induce senescence in fibroblasts. Our results point out a chemical composition predominantly characterized by dicaffeoylquinic acids and low amounts of flavonols. Regarding the infusion's bioactive potential, an anti-inflammatory effect was evident through a decrease in nitric oxide production and inducible nitric oxide synthase and pro-interleukin-1β protein levels. Moreover, a decrease in fibroblast migration was observed, as well as an inhibition in both intracellular lipid accumulation and melanogenesis. Furthermore, the infusion decreased senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity, γH2AX nuclear accumulation and both p53 and p21 protein levels. Overall, this study confirms the traditional uses of S. impressa and ascribes additional properties of interest in the pharmaceutical and dermocosmetics industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nama arizonica R.A. Crawford & G. Rink (Namaceae) is a novel Nama, restricted to Coconino and Navajo cos, northern Arizona. Previously, these plants have been determined as N. dichotoma (Ruiz & Pav.) Choisy, to which it may be most closely related, though it has morphological similarities to N. hispida as well. We present images of plants in the field, seeds, vestiture, and chromosomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is a common factor that contributes to the growth or decline of animal populations. The present study, conducted using the Species Distribution Model, highlights the fact that despite the recognized negative impact of wild boar (Sus scrofa) on semi-natural areas and agricultural systems worldwide, the species remains poorly studied. According to projections for Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, increased clusters of wild boar abundance are expected to emerge around fragmented species assemblages by 2070. Sus scrofa is an extremely destructive and rapidly spreading invasive species whose movement appears to be facilitated by humans. As a consequence, many endemic plants are threatened with extinction. Biological corridors between fragments with poor conservation status should be linked to priority areas for adequate protection. The creation of preserved landscapes in territories separated from semi-natural ecosystems is recommended. Additionally, these measures can help mitigate the negative impact of S. scrofa on local biodiversity. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies will be crucial for long-term conservation of the affected areas. Environmental protection efforts must prioritize the restoration of natural habitats and the implementation of strict regulations to control the spread of this invasive species. Collaborations between conservation organizations, governments, farmers, and local communities are essential to ensure effective wild boar management and the preservation of arable land and forests. Moreover, public awareness campaigns about the environmental impact of wild boar and the importance of conservation efforts are critical for garnering broader support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement: Native medicinal plants contribute essential health benefits to populations globally, constituting a major natural resource that human societies rely on. Being an integral part of terrestrial biodiversity, medicinal plants are detrimentally affected by ongoing climate and land‐use change, yet comprehensive studies on the risk that extinction will pose to medicinal biodiversity are lacking. Responding to ongoing scientific calls for conserving medicinal biodiversity, this study provides an integrated assessment of the impacts of environmental change on ironwort (Sideritis), a group of closely related endemic plants of great cultural significance as local medicinal resources in the Balkan Mountains. Summary: Mountain habitats harbour unique biodiversity and provide vital resources for human well‐being, including natural medicinal resources, yet they are amongst the environments most impacted by global change. While there is ample evidence of recent rapid climate and land‐use change on mountain ecosystems, the impacts of these processes on the habitats of culturally important medicinal plants are still poorly understood. Here, we assess the potential loss of mountain habitats for medicinal plant resources over the past four decades using the culturally important ironwort, a group of endemic medicinal plants of the Balkan Mountains extensively used by local human populations and the pharmaceutical industry for treating cough and cold and gastrointestinal disorders.We used information collected from major European natural history museums to guide extensive field campaigns across 15 separate mountain ranges. We integrate field data with thousands of satellite images, station‐validated climate reanalysis data and habitat suitability modelling. We finally used machine learning to assess the relative roles of climate and vegetation rates of change in driving rates of habitat suitability change.We show that rising temperatures and 'mountain greening' erode the habitats of ironwort at alarming rates. About 50% of the total habitat area across all considered mountain ranges shows a significant decline in habitat suitability.These past trends will most likely continue in the future and could lead to widespread local extinction of the species and other medicinal plants that share similar ecological preferences, threatening their future contributions to societal well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]