Distribution patterns, diversity and conservation Priorities of Onosma L. (Boraginaceae Juss.) in part of Armeno-Iranian Province of Iran

GGeobotanical studies of taxa with a high proportionof richness and endemism plays a prominent role on conservation strategies. Iran is one of the main diversitycenters of the genus OnosmaL. in context the richness as well endemism that represent the necessity its conservation assessments. In this study the distribution patterns of the mentioned taxa have been evaluated in Western Azarbaidjan as well western areas of Eastern Azarbaidjan based on filed works and herbarium assessment by GIS teqnicues.93 populations of 10 species collected and studied. The results showing that mentioned taxa mainly distributed between 1100-2900 m as wellsedimentary and quaternary geological formations in studied area. Besides abundance and diversity of subsect. Haplotricha is more than other subsections in studied area. In this study distribution maps preprated for studied species and the most important species and habitats are introduced for conservation priority. Generally, climate change and droughts, excessive grazing and habitat destructionare the main threats for this genus in studied area. It should be noted that rare taxa have small populations and have been mostly reported from restricted localities that appear high vulnerability to threatened factors. The results of this study can be effective for prepare conservation plans of this valuable genus.