Ecoregional and Phytogeographical Insights into the Distribution of Tulipa in the ‘Nature Imperiled’ Area of Central Asia for Effective Conservation

Central Asia, a biodiversity hotspot for Tulipa L. (Liliaceae), hosts 66 of the genus's approximately 150 species, yet detailed distribution mapping and phytogeographical analysis remain limited. This study identifies the Gissaro-Alai open woodlands ecoregion as a critical conservation hotspot, harboring 41 Tulipa species, while the Ferghana Valley phytogeographical district emerges as the optimal habitat for 25 species. Altitudinal gradients significantly influence species richness, peaking around 2000 meters above sea level before declining slightly at higher elevations. Notably, sections Kolpakowskianae and Biflores exhibit exceptional diversity in this region, accounting for 61% of all Tulipa species globally. These findings provide actionable insights for targeted conservation strategies, particularly in the vulnerable 'Nature Imperiled' area of Central Asia.

Asatulloev, T., Dekhkonov, D., Yusupov, Z., Tojiboeva, U., Cai, L., Tojibaev, K., & Sun, W. (2023). Ecoregional and Phytogeographical Insights into the Distribution of Tulipa in the ‘Nature Imperiled’ Area of Central Asia for Effective Conservation. Diversity, 15(12), 1195. https://doi.org/10.3390/d15121195