According to a comprehensive international study, Iran possesses 75 out of 180 known global species of the genus Melanocrommyum, highlighting the country's status as a major global hotspot for plant biodiversity.
The research was conducted by Iranian scientist Alireza Dolatari from the National Center for Genetic and Biological Resources in collaboration with researchers from Uzbekistan, China, and Turkey, as reported by ISNA. The work focused on the subspecies Allium Melanocrommyum.
The analysis examined 4642 geo-referenced occurrence records representing 170 taxa, along with phylogenetic datasets based on plastome and ITS. The study aimed to determine species richness, weighted endemism, phylogenetic diversity, phylogenetic endemism, relative phylogenetic endemism, categorical neo- and paleoendemism, turnover, and ecological correlates of phylogenetic diversity.
The results confirm that the Iranian-Turanian region serves as the main evolutionary center for the subspecies Allium Melanocrommyum. The strongest concentration of species richness, phylogenetic diversity, and phylogenetic endemism is observed in the mountains of Central Asia, particularly in the Tian Shan and Pamir-Alai systems. These areas are characterized by a high number of species and geographically restricted evolutionary history, indicating their role as centers of diversification and long-term lineage conservation.
Researchers identified two significant centers of endemism: one in northwestern Iran (Ardabil and East Azerbaijan provinces) and another in Uzbekistan (Kyzylkum region, Navlo). It was noted that the intermediate climate and solar radiation played a key role in shaping these patterns.
The National Center for Genetic and Biological Resources is responsible for collecting, identifying, standardizing, conserving, propagating, distributing, and promoting the sustainable use of genetic and biological resources, helping to protect Iran's biodiversity from various threats. The Center has also created a platform for consolidating scientific and research activities to enhance Iran's scientific status in biotechnology and ensure the sustainable preservation of the country's natural treasures for future use.
In November 2025, Somaye Rafiei, head of the environmental faction of the Iranian parliament, emphasized the need to pay special attention to endemic and local plant species and implement projects for preserving plant diversity in the country. According to her, the Zagros, located in the western part of the country, is among the 20 global biodiversity hotspots, and nine out of 11 global ecosystems have been identified in the country, which explains the rich diversity of Iran's flora and fauna.
Rafiei added that the country is home to over 8500 plant species, most of which are found in the Zagros, whereas only 5000 plant species are known in Europe. She called for support for plant research projects, emphasizing the importance of creating a gene bank and a genomic map for plant genetic resources, especially those that are endangered. Furthermore, she insisted on prioritizing endemic and local species, focusing on those with medicinal properties, as well as those resistant to drought and playing a key role in ensuring food security.
Iran ranks among the top 20 countries in the world for biodiversity and is home to numerous plant and animal species. However, in recent years, certain actions have led to habitat destruction and placed many species on the brink of extinction.
According to the Department of Environment, approximately 2000 animal species have been identified in the country's ecosystems, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and freshwater fish, as well as about 1200 fish species. Among them are 210 mammal species, 640 bird species, 300 reptile species, 23 amphibian species, and 350 freshwater fish species.
Statistically, Iran can be considered a cradle of global genetic diversity and is included in international classifications as a country with high biodiversity. Nevertheless, Iran's biodiversity, like that worldwide, faces challenges such as habitat destruction, overhunting, drought, and climate change.