PJB-2024-6
Field distribution and habitat of Siliquamomum tonkinense, a Plant Species with Extremely Small Populations
NIAN HUANG
Abstract
Siliquamomum tonkinense is one of the extremely small populations species in China. To support subsequent artificial propagation and reintroduction research of the species, we conducted a field survey across its southeast Yunnan province distribution to assess the current status and drivers of the decline of remaining populations. Geographical distribution, habitat environment, root soil properties, and population characteristics of S. tonkinense were examined. We found that the species was mainly distributed in the forested valleys of Ma Lipo, Maguan County, Wenshan Prefecture, Yunnan Province, and Hekou County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan province. Specifically, the distribution was from 103° 33′ 85′′ to 104° 78′ 58′′ E and 22° 57′ 36′′ to 23° 03′ 43′′ N, and at elevations 546.81-1003.42m but concentrated between 600.54-892.28m. Climate in the distribution area is warm and humid with an average annual temperature of 16.50-17.6° C. The highest and lowest temperatures were 32.4° C and -4.0° C, respectively. Annual precipitation was 1068.0-1410.5mm, mostly from May to September. Average annual relative humidity was 71-84%. S. tonkinense grows under the forest with dense vegetation and rich hydrothermal conditions. Populations outside of reserves is mostly close to roads and villages with high human activity, which presents a threat to those populations. Examined populations were mostly declining with low seed germination percentages and few newly germinated seedlings. Plants were scarce in each population, and the populations lacked any clear capacity for natural recovery. Soil was mainly black humus with a pH of 4.0-5.9. Organic matter, nitrogen nutrition, and rapidly available potassium were rich, but the content of other elements was lower. This research established the current geographical distribution, population status, and main ecological characteristics of S. tonkinense, and provided a scientific basis for guiding future protection, breeding efforts, and reintroduction.
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