Project Detail

Endemic plant species in the Southern Ukraine: genetics, evolutionary history and biogeography

Name:	Endemic plant species in the Southern Ukraine: genetics, evolutionary history and biogeography
Researchers:	Bartiš Igor (researcher)
Provider:	Czech Academy of Sciences
Number:	RRFU-22-43 AVtR
Realization from:	2024
Realization to:	2026
Summary:	Southern Ukraine is rich in endemic plant species listed in the Red Book of Ukraine as threatened. Still, most of them are often cited as synonyms of more widely distributed species on the eastern or western borders of their ranges due to the lack of molecular and comparative morphology data. Because of the taxonomic uncertainties, these species cannot receive internationally recognized protection status. Our studies confirm the connection of the flora of the granite outcrops in South Ukraine with the Balkans and the sandy steppes flora with the Asian steppes. But Ukrainian endemics have morphological and ecological features and most likely can be accepted. The ranges of rare species are decreasing due to recent climate change and anthropogenic transformations. Conservation of these species requires a knowledge of their genetics, evolutionary history, and biogeography.