Work

Uncovering the habitat and morphological variation of the narrow endemic Centaurea pangaea (Asteraceae): Implications for conservation

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Centaurea pangaea (Asteraceae) is among the Greek endemic species of the genus with a particularly restricted distribution, occurring only on Mt. Pangeon (NE Greece) where it is found in a limited number of microsites. Through extensive field surveys, we confirmed its presence at three microsites, documenting a total of 108 mature individuals. We analyzed morphological traits of individuals sampled in two subpopulations, which revealed significant morphological variability, especially in traits like capitula width and leaf dimensions, likely driven by local environmental differences such as altitude. The absence of a pappus thus remains a stable and reliable diagnostic character distinguishing C. pangaea from C. parilica . Its limited dispersal ability – due to the absence of a pappus and elaiosomes – combined to the heavy predation of its achenes by Larinus weevils and its potentially low competitive ability, seem to play a crucial role in colonizing otherwise suitable habitats. The present study highlights the need for continued monitoring combined with targeted conservation actions to ensure the future survival of this poorly known yet ecologically and taxonomically significant endemic species

Source: Flora

DOI: 10.1016/j.flora.2025.152859

Authors: Spyros Tsiftsis, Katerina Tseniklidou, Georgios Korakis, Theodora Merou

Institution: Democritus University of Thrace

Language: English

Topic: Mediterranean and Iberian flora and fauna

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,900