Morphological Diversity of Dorystoechas hastata, a Relict Endemic Species, Across Habitat Variability

Dorystoechas hastata is a relict endemic species grown in Antalya, Turkey. The species is under risk of extinction due mainly to the uncontrolled mass collection for its pharmacological properties. The objectives of the study were to assess morphological diversity of D. hastata in its natural habitat, and the effect of habitat characteristics on the species diversity. The 59 genotypes representing 16 populations, encompassing the complete natural habitat, were morphologically characterized. Results revealed that the species was naturally located from sea level (4 m) up to 2000 m, in a wider geographic area than stated previously. It occupies different habitat structures ranging from forests, especially at lower altitudes, to the steppe regions with limestone slopes and stony sections at the higher altitudes. The majority of genotypes occupied either south, southeastern or southwest aspects. Results proved the existence of substantial variation within and among populations for morphological characteristics as confirmed by principal component and cluster analyses. The results are expected to aid better understanding of the genetic variation and distribution of D. hastata and may assist in cultivation of the species and selection of candidate genotypes for future conservation and breeding programs.