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Abstract

The article presents the results of the formation of endemic plants in the flora of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic (AR). The study and research of endemic plants are of special importance for determining the origin of flora, the ways of its formation, its specificity, and its similarity to the floras of neighboring areas. A total of 51 endemic plant species belonging to 15 families and 33 genera have been identified in the area, which constitutes 1.54% of the flora. As a result of long-term research, the formation of endemic species found in the flora of the Nakhchivan AR has been assessed as the result of centuries-long natural selection, migration, and adaptation processes. The emergence of endemism is closely linked to both climate and relief changes occurring over geological periods and the dynamics of floristic relationships. During the Miocene, orogenic processes resulting from the retreat of the Tethys Sea, the formation of new mountain belts, and associated climatic changes created favorable conditions for the development of unique floral complexes in the study area. Studies show that the majority of endemic species in the flora of the Nakhchivan AR belong to mesophile and xeromesophile ecological groups. These species are mainly distributed in the middle and subalpine zones, as well as on dry mountain slopes. The influence of Caucasian elements played an important role in the formation of the endemic composition of the flora. The results show that the endemic species of the Nakhchivan AR flora include both ancient endemic forms and new species that have adapted to certain ecological conditions and are able to respond to environmental changes. This feature is related to the region’s long-term geological development history, climatic conditions, and the confinement of species to limited areas (usually in specific mountainous or isolated regions). The conducted studies indicate that the emergence of endemic species in the territory of the Nakhchivan AR is primarily attributable to prolonged geological isolation, microclimatic diversity, and the historical stability of high-mountain ecosystems. Research has demonstrated that the evolution of high-mountain elements over millions of years has facilitated the emergence of new forms. Moreover, the sharp differences in environmental conditions across short distances have generated distinct habitats, promoting the development of ecological niches and, consequently, the formation of new forms within these areas. These areas serve as refugia and, in some cases, as centers of speciation for various species when subjected to prolonged isolation. If such isolation persists over geological time scales, it can also give rise to local endemic species. The distribution of endemic elements across the region’s various zones is highly diverse. Among the regional endemic species, 37 (72.55%) are distributed across the middle and high mountain belts. Studying the endemic species of any area is of particular importance in identifying and protecting the biodiversity of that area. The presence of endemic and relict species in the flora indicates the originality of the area.

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