Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
Department of Medicinal Plants, Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Arak University, Arak 38156-8-8349, Iran
2
Department of Plant Sciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Life Sciences and Biotechnology Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
3
Department of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management, Environmental Sciences Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
4
Department of Plant Sciences, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
10.22091/ethc.2025.11941.1045
Abstract
Objective: Crop Wild Relatives (CWRs) are critically important for strengthening food security due to their inherent resilience and genetic richness, serving as a valuable backup. However, these vital species face serious risks from habitat destruction, overgrazing, and climate change. The objective of this study is to introduce the most important monocot wild relatives in Iran. This aims to not only showcase the rich capacity of the country’s habitats for improving crop, forage, and ornamental products but also to establish a strong database for the conservation of this valuable biodiversity.
Methods: This study aimed to document monocot CWRs in Iran by compiling data from various national and international sources. We used ArcGIS software to map the distribution of these species.
Results: Our research identified 331 monocot species as wild relatives within Iran. The Poaceae (117 species) and Amaryllidaceae (72 species) families exhibited the highest concentration of wild relatives.
Of these, 18 species are used as food and 68 as forage. Additionally, 158 species have ornamental, medicinal, industrial, or soil protection value.
Conclusion: This research presents a foundational inventory of monocot wild relatives, specifically focusing on Iranian crops. The findings provide valuable insights into these wild relatives that can be utilized in the enhancement of food products, forage crops, and ornamental plants. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the urgency of prioritizing conservation strategies.
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