Level of endemism in high-mountain flora of isolated Fisht-Oshten massif and Black Sea Chain

Abstract

For the first time the level of endemism in high-mountain flora of north-west edge of uplands of the Caucasus was estimated. A uniquely high level of endemism in Fisht-Oshten Massif and Chernomorskaya (Black Sea) Chain was observed: 28.4% (342 species) with predominance of Caucasian (9.2%), Pan Caucasian (7.4%) and West-Caucasian (5.1%) endemics. Colchis and North Colchis endemics total take 5.8%, and together with local endemics riches the third position. The level of endemism of alpine species is one of the highest in the Caucasus and is 43.2% (276 species). The levels of endemism revealed general trends, depending on the remoteness of local flora from the main diaspora on the Fisht-Oshten massif and the current area of the meadow belt. These trends are visible for endemics of all ranks, with the exception of the West Caucasian endemic, whose number is higher in the eastern part of Black Sea Chain and is falling sharply to the west part.