Palynological, karyological and eco-physiological features of Microcnemum coralloides of Armenian flora.

The nature of pollen grains and karyotype morphology are important bases in the task of clarifying relationships and they are considered to be of significant value in observing the effects of environmental and climatic factors on plants. The investigations of the palynological, as well as karyological and physiological data regarding to M. coralloides, as one of the rarest species of the Armenian flora, were conducted for the first time using light and scanning electronic microscopy. In Armenia the only remaining population of this species is currently located in the Ararat valley salt marshes to the south-east of Ararat town. In the Red Book of Plants of the Republic of Armenia the species M. coralloides is presented in the category EN (Endangered species). Description of the pollen grain and karyotype of the Armenian population of M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum collected from the vicinity of Ararat town are provided in the article. The study of the water regime, transpiration intensity and photosynthesis, as well as plastid pigments were also conducted. Comparative analysis between Armenian and Iranian specimens of the subspecies M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum showed some discrepancies in pollen features, as well as karyological data, which indicate some specificity of the population growing on the territory of Armenia. The diversity and intersections in pollen traits can be attributed to either natural variability within a population (plasticity), or they may be influenced by genetic differences among populations and closely related species. The physiological data highlights specialized adaptations of M. coralloides subsp. anatolicum for managing water resources, reducing transpiration, and performing photosynthesis in the high salinity conditions of the Ararat Plain. This showcases the plant's remarkable resilience and adaptability to its specific ecological niche, emphasizing the interplay between environment and biology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]