Ecology as a Tool to Assist Conservation of a Rare and Endemic Mediterranean Plantago Species

Reviewing the ecological studies on endangered endemic Plantago almogravensis Franco, an Al-hyperaccumulator plant, and combining these with morphological, physiological, biochemical, molecular data, significant knowledge limiting factors that cause its narrow geographical distribution rarity status is achieved, which can contribute to suited conservation guidelines. Emphasis was given (i) major P. ’ niche (biotic abiotic); (ii) phases of life cycle population dynamics; (iii) phylogenetically close taxa ( subulata aggregate) in order fill gaps uniqueness ecology, phylogeny, status. The identification relevant data using plant functional (morphological physiological) traits, as well genetic attributes, substantiate into a powerful tool guide protection measures, usable toward this other hyperaccumulator species. Knowledge limitations strongly narrowly distributed allows for better design measures value investment strategies secure species’ current area (habitat reclamation), direct expansion existing (assisting populational densification colonization), and/or grant ex situ (genetic resources conservation).