An investigation on the diversity, distribution and conservation of Poaceae species growing naturally in Eskişehir province (Central Anatolia-Turkey)

Abstract

Turkey is located in the region when natural forms of important cultivated plant species show genetic diversity. In the present study, plant distribution and conservation strategies of Poaceae (Gramineae) species distributing naturally on steppe vegetation, getting important contributions to the plant diversity under antropogenic effects were studied. During the study, 125 plant taxa belonging to 57 genera were determined. The research area is situated in the B3 square according to Davis' grid system. Total number of species of the larger genera in the study area are as follows: Bromus L. 10, Poa L. 9, Aegilops L. 8, Phleum L.. Stipa L. and Hordeum L. 6, Avena L. 5, Elymus L., Eremopyrum (Ledeb.) Jaub. & Spach, Lolium L., Alopecurus L., Melica L. and Secale L. 3. The phytogeographic elements represented in the research area are as follows: Euro-Siberian 20 (16.0%), Irano-Turanian 12 (9.6%), Mediterranean 6 (4.8%) and East Mediterranean 3 (2.4%). When the risk categories of the plant taxa are considered, it can be seen that 1 taxon is in VU (Vulnerable), 1 taxa in DD (Data Deficient) and 3 in LC (Least Concern) categories. Four (3.2%) species are endemic for Turkey.